News

Mortlock laments capitulation

August 30 2008

Australia captain Stirling Mortlock admitted that his side was completely outgunned by South Africa during Saturday's shock 53-8 result in Johannesburg.

The Springboks ran in eight tries, with winger Jongi Nokwe crossing for four of them, en route to their biggest-ever win over the Wallabies.

Although Australia are still in title contention (a win over New Zealand in Brisbane in a fortnight's time will hand them the title) the manner of his side's capitulation at Ellis Park gave Mortlock cause for concern.

"It's disappointing to lose like this, but the Boks came at us with absolutely all guns blazing" said Mortlock.

"One never comes to a field expecting that kind of score to be put past you.

"All credit to the Boks. Every time they created they used the opportunities and every time we were turned over they punished us."

Australia coach Robbie Deans said that his team would not take much from this game into the decider against the All Blacks in Brisbane.

"It was a great win, a good performance by the Springboks," said Deans.

"They got in the game and built some momentum, while we dropped off.

"The reality of this industry is that someone has to be the bottom side in the Tri-Nations but that doesn't mean they're a bad side.

"But we would rather focus on what is a great opportunity for us - the game in Brisbane has become a winner-takes-all match.

"But a test is a test. I'm not concerned with the numbers [score], but it hurts if you lose."