Springbok Women head coach Swys de Bruin and team captain Nolusindiso Booi were delighted with their first win over Italy in York on Sunday, with the pool victory also ensuring that South Africa progress to the Womens Rugby World Cup play-offs for the first time in history.
Furthermore, the 29-24 victory ' their first in four attempts against the Italians ' means South Africa will also move into the top ten on the World Rugby rankings for the first time.
De Bruin said his teams refusal to back down when Italy came with a determined fight back to twice draw level in the game, as well as the tactical acumen of his coaching staff were highlights in this exceptional win.