Jantjes lays claim to full back role
July 30, 2001

New Springbok hero Conrad Jantjes might have delivered a Man of the Match display in the 20-15 win over the Wallabies, but the dynamic fullback isn't resting on his laurels just yet.

The 21-year-old is keen to make the position his own, although he knows that Thinus Delport and Percy Montgomery are waiting in the wings if he should slip up. But judging by Saturday's performance, they could wait a while.

Jantjes faced a lot of pressure going into the match, with people doubting coach Harry Viljoen decision to give the untried player a run against the world champions. Also, his lack of Super 12 game time didn't exactly instil much confidence.

The Lions star admitted he felt the pressure and knew about the criticisms, but said he just decided to ignore it. "I knew there would be a lot of pressure out there, particularly with all the talk of the 'not having played much Super 12' and being untested," he told the Cape Times.

"I got a little sick of it and just switched off. I knew I had to get into the game early and fortunately it happened when Wallaby centre Nathan Grey broke away and we ended up in a one-on-one situation where I tackled him."

Jantjes and his fellow Boks will now have a three-week break before facing the Wallabies in the rematch in Perth on August 18.

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