Former England flyhalf slams Etzebeth's World Cup claim: 'I call Bulls***!'

07/05/2024 11:32

According to a recent article by Rugbydump, former England flyhalf Andy Goode has expressed his disbelief regarding Springbok star Eben Etzebeth’s account of an incident following South Africa’s loss to Ireland at the Rugby World Cup.

Goode, known for his straight-talking style, co-hosts the popular “Rugby Pod” with former Scotland international Jim Hamilton.

Goode Questions Etzebeth’s Recollection

During the podcast, Goode and Hamilton discussed Etzebeth’s claim that twelve Irish players had approached him after the match, suggesting they would meet in the final. Etzebeth felt this behaviour was arrogant.

However, Goode strongly disagreed with Etzebeth’s interpretation of the events. “I call bullshit. You ain’t counting to twelve or thirteen straight after a game, son!” Goode exclaimed.

He argued that in the emotional aftermath of a loss, it’s unlikely Etzebeth would have been able to keep track of the number of players who spoke to him.

Hamilton Recalls Post-Match Interview

Hamilton, who had interviewed Etzebeth immediately after the Springboks’ defeat, shared his recollection of the incident. “He came up to me and said, ‘We’ll get them back if they make it.’ That cold line gave me shivers, so that is where that came from,” Hamilton revealed.

During the podcast, Hamilton asked Etzebeth about the incident, and the Springbok player maintained his stance that twelve Irish players had approached him, which he perceived as arrogance.

Goode Defends Irish Players

Goode, however, offered a different perspective on the situation. He suggested that if any Irish players had said something to Etzebeth, it would have been along the lines of “hope to see you in the final,” implying a respectful acknowledgement of the possibility of both teams reaching the championship match.

“There is no way Eben can count to twelve shaking people’s hands,” Goode asserted. He emphasised the emotional turmoil players experience after a loss and the unlikelihood of Etzebeth meticulously counting the number of players who spoke to him.

Goode Believes Irish Players Meant Well

Goode further defended the Irish players, stating, “What happened is I think someone probably said, ‘Hope to see you in the final or whatever’ because the Irish are good people, there is not a f****** chance they’ve all gone there.”

He maintained that the Irish players’ intentions were likely genuine and not meant to be arrogant or disrespectful towards Etzebeth or the Springboks.

Conclusion

As the rugby world continues to discuss the incident, Andy Goode’s strong opinion on the matter has sparked further debate.

While Eben Etzebeth stands by his account, Goode’s perspective offers an alternative view, suggesting that the Irish players’ comments may have been misinterpreted.

As always, the truth likely lies somewhere in between, and it remains a talking point among rugby enthusiasts.