Cape Town – Springbok assistant coach Matt Proudfoot has described Scotland as a formidable side who will present the improving Springboks with a difficult contest on Saturday at Murrayfield.   

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South Africa managed to defeat France in Paris last Saturday following their one point loss to England in the 2018 Outgoing Tour opener in London two weeks ago.

The Scots have built a formidable record at Murrayfield in the past two seasons, with their only loss from nine home Tests coming against New Zealand last November.

“They are a very good side and Gregor (Townsend, Scottish coach) has done a fantastic job with the team since he took over,” said Proudfoot.

“The challenge at the breakdown and the contact point is always crucial in Test match rugby. The difference (compared to the French game) is that Scotland are probably a lot better technically in the defensive contact situations, while the French were very physical.”

Proudfoot also lauded some of the other Scottish strengths: “Their continuity play and their ability to apply a kicking game, which allow them to counter off the back of that, are some other strong points.

“They are also a very disciplined side who are able to defend for long phases, so you don’t get to break them down easily. That means you must have a lot of patience against them,” said Proudfoot.

A call on the fitness of Eben Etzebeth will only be made later in the week. The experienced lock picked up a foot injury against England two weeks ago, which forced him to miss the game in Paris.

The Springbok side to face Scotland on Saturday will be named on Thursday.

The match in Edinburgh kicks off at 19:20 (SA time).