Cape Town - The Boks were crucified on social media following their 34-32 loss to Japan on Saturday. But for all of the haters, there was also a lot of admiration for the Japanese.
Here is what some of the Springboks of yesteryear felt about the performance ...
BREYTON PAULSE
You gotta love the celebrations of The Japanese players and fans,Tears of joy for days,wonderful sight
— Breyton Paulse (@BreytonPaulse) September 19, 2015
ASHWIN WILLEMSE
I am shattered it was an absolutely devastating result. Nevertheless, well done to Japan...
— Ashwin Willemse (@Ashwinwillemse) September 19, 2015
STEFAN TERBLANCHE
Too scared to open the newspapers......it might be messy! https://t.co/N1LWMOCMxE
— Stefan Terblanche (@StefanT15) September 20, 2015
JOEL STRANSKY
It was fantastic!!! Great spectacle and brilliant for the game! Just not so cool for the Boks @PeterRHutt
— Joel Stransky (@stranners) September 19, 2015
BAKKIES BOTHA
Take a bow to Japan I whas wrong and I'm taking my hat of to Japan well done. Hard work for the Boks.But I believe they will bounce back.
— Bakkies Botha (@BakkiesBotha4) September 19, 2015
BUTCH JAMES
I am at a loss for words. Biggest upset in rugby history but Japan deserved the win. #RSAvJPN #RWC2015 #RWClive http://t.co/NpgPU0ow83
— Butch James (@butch_james) September 19, 2015
JAMES SMALL
Biggest disappointment.. Lack of urgency intensity and accuracy from senior players.. Reputations don't win games.. Lowest point in history!
— James Terence Small (@JamesTerenceSm1) September 19, 2015
ANDRE JOUBERT
Speechless!! Well done Japan!!. Great rugby lesson for bok management !!! Rugby not about size and power- skill victorius!!!
— Andre Joubert (@15Jouba) September 19, 2015
KOBUS WIESE
A poor buildup to the WC, selecting certain players not on form, uncertainty on first choice 15, now haunting us. Huge character test now!
— Kobus Wiese (@4KobusWiese) September 19, 2015