LISTEN: Meyer apologises to Springbok fans

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer has apologised to South African rugby fans following his team’s semifinal exit at the 2015 Rugby World Cup at Twickenham on Saturday.

Meyer’s men suffered a 20-18 loss to the defending champions, the All Blacks, in what turned out to be another immensely physical showdown between old foes.

The Springboks enjoyed a 12-7 lead at halftime and started the final 40-minutes with a one-man advantage after the NZ flank Jerome Kaino was sent-off.

The Springboks were, however, unable to capitalise and instead watched as New Zealand stalwart Dan Carter kicked a drop-goal to get his team back on the winning track.

A devastated Meyer was quick to apologise for his team’s defeat.

“We wanted to make our country proud and we didn’t. We should have pulled this one through, but all credit to the All Blacks, they are a quality side,” Meyer said in his post-match interview.

“I would like to thank everyone for their support, I’m very sorry we let them down today.”

Asked where he thought it went wrong, the Bok mentor said that he was not satisfied with his team’s discipline in the second-half.

“I really thought we were good enough to beat them, they are a quality side, but our discipline in the second-half was just not good enough.

“I said discipline would be the most important thing today, and especially in these rainy conditions, it was the difference in the end.”

Springbok captain Fourie du Preez, sporting a massive shiner on his left cheek, was particularly disappointed that his team failed to score a try.

“When we had ball in hand we also did well, but, unfortunately, we couldn’t get a try. Credit to the All Blacks, they played well,” said Du Preez.