Bloemfontein Bok fans come out in force for glimpse of RWC trophy

BLOEMFONTEIN - The people of Bloemfontein got a chance to celebrate the Springoks' Rugby World Cup triumph on Thursday afternoon.

The City of Roses was not included in the initial victory parade in November due to time constraints.

Hundreds of people gathered to catch a glimpse of the World Cup-winning players, who are in town for their game against Portugal on Saturday.

Despite there being only five of the World Cup-winning squad present, the enthusiasm amongst the people gathered at the Loch Logan Waterfront was palpable. 

Some left work early to get their children from school and to wait in line patiently for a selfie or an autograph with the players and a glimpse of the Webb Ellis Cup.

The rugby-mad city has produced some of the country’s finest talent, like Ox Nche and Cobus Reinach, who were present, and was unlucky to miss out on being part of the parade eight months ago.

The Springboks aren’t in Bloemfontein very often and these fans wanted to make the most of this opportunity as they wouldn’t be attending Saturday’s game.

"We’re here to show our support because we love rugby as well and the Springboks are pretty big. Who wouldn’t want to come meet them anyway? It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so you want to be here."

The world champions play Portugal in a historic first-ever Test between the two teams on Saturday.