Wales' latest cap Tommy Reffell has opened up on his stunning Test debut for the first time, recalling an 'incredible' experience.
The openside was thrust straight into the Test arena after little more than a week of training with Wayne Pivac's side, having arrived late in camp after winning the Gallagher Premiership with Leicester Tigers. But he took to international rugby like a duck to water, snaffling turnovers and only being outdone in his defensive effort by lock Will Rowlands.
It was a sublime debut, which has been eagerly anticipated by Welsh fans for some time now, even if the result didn't go Wales' way with a last-gasp Damian Willemse penalty resulting in a 32-29 comeback win for the Springboks.
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With Lofrtus Versfeld packed to the rafters with passionate home fans - watching their heroes in the flesh for the first time since the 2019 Rugby World Cup - creating the most hostile of atmospheres.
"It was an incredible experience," Reffell told WRU TV. "It was a disappointing result but the whole build up to the game was exciting, running out and singing the anthem for the first time. The atmosphere was incredible.
"Overall, the experience was amazing and something I'll never forget. The result didn't go our way but there are plenty of things we can look at going forward.
"It was pretty special, wasn't it? I haven't played in many places better than that. That was their first one back in front of a crowd so they came out in force. They were incredible and I could hear them all the way through the game.
"It was a special memory."
He added: "I've got mixed feelings because it's a game we could have won, even with the yellow cards. It goes to show that discipline is key, especially the way they play with the rolling maul. It's hard to stop."
Reffell, whose parents were at the game last Saturday, has enjoyed a stellar few seasons at Leicester. The former Wales age-grade skipper has been developing nicely at Welford Road and has become a regular starter for Steve Borthwick's side.
Having spent his entire professional career in England, what does he make of the step-up from club rugby to Test rugby?
"It's kind of similar in ways but it's a lot more intense," he said. "You have to be on your mettle for the whole game and concentration and all that sort of stuff that goes along with it.
"Then the physicality as well. They've got some big boys and it's all about getting your tackle height right and consistently low."
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