In a brutal encounter at the Millennium Stadium, Wales went down to a 24-15 defeat with Leigh Halfpenny kicking five penalties. But South Africa outscored Wales three tries to none to earn the win with the home side further hindered by the loss of four players due to injury.
Jonathan Davies looks set to miss the rest of the Dove Men Series due to a pectoral injury suffered against the Springboks while Adam Jones, Liam Williams and Scott Andrews were all forced from the field. The loss of the four players certainly hindered Wales but Edwards believes such a hard encounter could have a positive impact going into the meeting with the Pumas.
“The level of the game at the weekend was outstanding and the standard of physicality and the breakdown in particular can only put us in good stead,” said Edwards.
“I thought it was a Test match of epic proportions. There was no doubt it was a step up but I thought we matched that.
“I was really proud of the team for the way they hung in there despite the injuries we had, particularly to backs. They’re a coach’s nightmare and to lose two backs, reshuffle and still be within two points of them at 68 minutes was a sterling effort from the lads. If we can continue in that vein then good times will be ahead.”
“We’re still continuing to assess a number of players. Jonathan Davies’ injury is more serious and he’s pretty much out of this series,” said Edwards.
“We’re just hoping he’s not going to be out of the Six Nations – it’s a massive loss for us obviously.”
On the new arrivals, who will train with the squad this week, the Wales defence coach added: “Rhodri Jones has been with us for a while, he’s a very dynamic ball carrier and you think this guy is going to be a top player one day.
“Sampson Lee is probably a little bit different, he’s an out and out scrummaging prop. Tom Prydie has been with us before. I was very impressed with him on the Japanese tour, he seems to have matured a lot and he’s playing regular first team rugby. Hallam Amos has X factor ability.
“We’ve got to put time and effort into them so they understand the defensive systems. You can’t expect a player to get to the level of Jonathan Davies in a week, it’s impossible. But these guys all have their own individual skills which they’re going to bring to the table.”
Looking ahead to this weekend’s visit of the Pumas, Edwards added: “Argentina are a very difficult team to play against.
“We’re northern hemisphere champions and I think we always play better when we’re under pressure. We really want to win this game on Saturday, there’s no doubt about that.”
Tickets for Wales against Argentina are available via www.wru.co.uk/tickets from £30 for adults and £10 concessions. There is also a family ticket available (2 Adults + 2 Kids) priced at £70.00.
