News

Hansen admits Matfield concern

July 30 2009

New Zealand have highlighted Victor Matfield as the key to South Africa's lineout - but the question is can they stop the elusive vice captain?

Assistant Coach Steve Hansen was a hurting spectator last week in Bloemfontein after watching his set-piece being taken to bits by Bakkies Botha and the fast feet of Matfield.

Many in the past have tried to crack the Bok lock duo by studying an exhaustive amount of video analysis, with little success at Bulls and international level against the world's best.

And Forwards guru Hansen believes that Matfield clearly brings a physical and instinctive skill that other leading locks struggle to match.

"I don't think there's anyone under six foot two doing any lifting, particularly their back five, they're all very tall," Hansen said, speaking to NZPA.

"Matfield's so good on his feet that he covers a lot of space. He puts himself in the game at lineout time by just getting up there.

"Half a lift from blokes that are as tall as they are, if you get it marginally wrong then you're in trouble, whether it's your thrower, jumper or lifter."