Warren Gatland praises South Africa before taking a dig at England

Classic Gatty, in fairness.

Whether his teams win, lose or draw, Warren Gatland always speaks from the heart. He ruffles a lot of feathers, doing so, but the Welsh fans love him for it. Gatland led his Wales side to their second World Cup semi-final in eight years but they fell short against South Africa in a kicking frenzy last four encounter. Under Gatland, Wales have won four Six Nations titles [including three Grand Slams] and he has led the British & Irish Lions to a series win in Australia and a draw with the All Blacks. [caption id="attachment_202688" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] (Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile)[/caption] As Wales boss, though, Gatland has never beaten New Zealand so he would love if they could close out the World Cup by righting that one for him. It is not what he would have been aiming for, heading into today's semi with the Springboks, but it would be a nice farewell for him. Following his side's 19-16 loss to South Africa, Gatland said Rassie Erasmus' side were the deserving winners. Also, in his post match press briefing, he commented:

"It will be hugely monumental. It's the only team I haven't beaten with Wales so it would be nice to achieve that."

The native New Zealander will finish up with Wales after this tournament but will lead the Lions on a tour to South Africa in 2021. Gatland was asked for his take of next weekend's final between England and South Africa and could not resist a pop at his near neighbours:

"We have seen teams play their final in the semi-final and don’t turn up for the final. We will see what England do."

No pressure England. No pressure at all. We are sure Eddie Jones, the England head coach, will be preparing his riposte in time for his next press briefing.

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WATCH THE LATEST HOUSE OF RUGBY HERE: SUBSCRIBE TO BAZ & ANDREW'S HOUSE OF RUGBY: https://playpodca.st/house-of-rugby-ie The latest episode sees Andrew Trimble and Jerry Flannery look back on Ireland's World Cup exit to New Zealand.

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