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Genia: Du Preez is my hero
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Australia scrum-half Will Genia believes that the main reason the Springboks have fared so poorly in this year's Tri-Nations is the absence of Fourie du Preez.
The Blue Bulls and Springbok number nine was ruled out of this year's tournament after undergoing shoulder surgery and South Africa have managed only one win in five games without him.
"Fourie is the best scrum-half I have ever seen play. He has everything," Genia told SuperSport.com.
"Fourie controls the game and is their lynchpin. I think Morné Steyn is a better player when Fourie plays because he does not have to concern himself with anything but his own game as Fourie controls everything."
However, the Queensland Reds star lauded Francois Hougaard for his showing against the Wallabies in the home side's 44-31 win at the weekend.
"I have to say that Francois Hougaard is doing really well and there appears to be life after Fourie," added Genia.
"Only time will tell. Hougaard definitely gave the Boks the spark that they had been missing. His strength is that he gets across the field so quickly.
"He gets to the breakdowns quickly and allows the experienced players on his outside to be the play-makers.
"His pace means that he can run good support lines and often be the second player to be able to score tries."
The 22-year-old Australian has been likened to Wallaby great, George Gregan, but Genia insists that Du Preez sets the benchmark.
"He can run, kicks superbly, passes well and has very good vision. What I really admire about him is his uncanny knack to always make the right decision," he said.
"You seldom see him make a mistake or take the wrong option. He is definitely one of my heroes and someone I enjoy playing against."
Comments
robo says...
Great generosity from Genia and what a rare tribute from another player. It says much about Genia himself..
Posted 14:30 02nd September 2010