Absence of travelling fans will help South Africa, says
USA coachGary Gold was part of victorious Springboks setup in 2009The
British &
Irish Lions will face a major struggle to win their forthcoming Test series against the South Africa, according to one of the coaches who oversaw the Springboks’ victory on the Lions’ last tour to the Republic in 2009. Gary Gold, now head coach of the US Eagles who meet
England this weekend, believes the hosts will prove “too strong” with the absence of visiting fans set to be a key factor.
Gold was part of the Boks’ coaching setup 12 years ago when
South Africa took the series 2-1 and foresees another home triumph this time around. “I think it’s going to be very difficult for the Lions for a number of reasons,” said Gold, who has also worked in the Premiership at
London Irish, Newcastle, Bath and Worcester.