Springbok Manie Libbok has broken his silence after his stellar performance at last weekend’s victory against Argentina.
The match – which saw South Africa win the Rugby Championship title – took place at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit on Saturday, 28 September.
Just days earlier, the flyhalf became the victim of nasty trolls who criticised his kicking abilities following a previous loss in Santiago.
MANIE LIBBOK RETURNS TO SOCIAL MEDIA WITH INSPIRING MESSAGE
In an Instagram post, Manie Libbok broke his silence after being taunted on social media. In many comments, rugby fans called on coach Rassie Erasmus to remove the player from the squad.
However, Manie was given a starting line-up and played for almost the entire game. After being substituted by Handre Pollard, Manie was given an applause by fans in the Mbombela stadium.
Sharing pics of behind-the-scenes action, Manie posted: “You know that God did, he never gon’ fail on us.”
The post was liked by several Springboks, including captain Siya Kolisi and players Makazole Mapimpi, Aphelele Fassi, and Damian Willemse.
“My General,” Siya proudly commented under the post.
‘WE OWE YOU AN APOLOGY’
Also commenting under the posts were rugby fans who apologised for their harsh judgment towards Manie Libbok.
@lelwaz_b: “I apologize on behalf of the KANTRY that we were mean to you. Maybe because we are not used to losing. We are sorry for being nasty human beings. Kindly find it in your heart to forgive us”.
@bongani_momoti: “South Africa owes you an apology champ”
@fabkaybe: “Thank you, my brother, for what you do for South Africa. Your love for our country is unmatched. That is seen when we- your Mzansi fam, were quick to criticize you, and you responded in patience and loyalty!”
Images via X:
@springboks
‘SOCIAL MEDIA CAN BE EVIL’
Meanwhile, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has revealed how he encouraged Manie Libbok amid the nasty comments on social media.
He said in a post-match briefing: “We really try to stay close to the fans, and we know that social media can sometimes be an evil thing.
“However, it also functions as a reality check for us to stay in touch with the fans. I had a chat with Manie earlier this week, and I told him he’ll get back onto the horse, and the guys are going to help him.
He added: “The crowd was special when they did that (giving him a standing ovation). When a player gets supported off and doesn’t get booed off, that’s also a ‘lekker’ feeling.”
ARE YOU A MANIE LIBBOK SUPPORTER?
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