Viljoen: Time constraints a worry
May 30, 2001

Springbok coach Harry Viljoen on Tuesday said he has been impressed by what he has seen from the players at the training camp in Plettenberg Bay so far, but admits they'll have a tough task to be on the level they want when they face the French in the first Test on June 16.

The Boks started their preparation for the international season on Sunday, with the Sharks that did duty in the Super 12 final in Canberra only arriving on Tuesday. Speaking to sarugby.net, Viljoen said the time constraints would be a challenge.

"Unfortunately, the reality of this camp is that time is limited. There has been no time to ease ourselves into the two-week build-up to our first test preparation. We have had to start and the late arrivals will have a bit of catching-up to do.

"It is important, though, that we manage all the players very carefully in the next fortnight because the demands of the Vodacom Super 12 will have taken a physical and emotional toll on the players," he added.

"Mentally, they have to work through the barriers (that may exist) in the next few days. It won't be easy, but then very little that matters to one comes easily. We have to work hard, make sacrifices and be prepared to go the extra mile if we are to be successful at the 2003 World Cup."

The coach said the training camp would be the starting point for what he hopes will be a successful World Cup challenge in 2003. "It all started in Plettenberg Bay two days ago. There can be no let-up in the next two and a half years. And from what I have experienced (in attitude from the players) I think the players know this."

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