The Italians won 36-18 after a late try halted an amazing fightback by South Africa, who were down to 13 players in the last 20 minutes.

“What a performance by the squad, defending like they did and fighting to stay in the game when we had lost both our hookers to injury and conceded a red card for a head clash,” said Koen.

“The team did not stop trying and if it wasn’t for an intercept try late in the game, we would have walked off very happy.”

The red card to Aseza Hele (No 8) early in the second half was soon followed by an injury to Luchell Hanekom, who had replaced Micke Gunter at hooker in the first half.

“We could not risk a prop moving to play hooker, so we had to forfeit a replacement player, which meant that we had to do with 13,” said Koen.

“Despite that, we dominated a very good Italian side at times and showed outstanding courage in the second half. This team showed what fighting spirit means.”

Koen lamented a slow start in the first half: “We conceded a try in the opening minutes, which was not how we planned to start the game. Our lineouts also did not function as expected in the early stages, but we got that right later and some of our drives were outstanding.

“Obviously, when we went for uncontested scrums, it took our powerful scrum out of the game, but rather that than risking players. We recovered nicely and, in the end, defended so well. This team really won over supporters today, despite the result.”

It was a tough day at the office from an injury perspective as well. Gunter and Tayla Kinsey (scrumhalf) were forced off the field due to HIA protocols, while Chuma Qawe (fullback) also had to leave the field for a HIA, but was allowed to return.

“We will look at the medical feedback on Saturday and then make a call on the fitness of the remaining players,” said Koen.

“We have a tough assignment against Samoa next Friday and want to finish the tournament strong.”

South Africa will face Samoa at Athlone Stadium on Friday at 16h30.