Hooker proud despite Eden Park loss

IT wasn't the result Springbok newcomer Ethan Hooker wanted in his first Test against the All Blacks, but the utility back was chuffed to get his baptism of fire at Eden Park in Auckland.

- LEIGHTON KOOPMAN

Despite the nail-biting 24-17 loss on Saturday, the Bok bench, including Hooker, turned the tide for the side as they chased a first win at the iconic stadium in 88 years.

Although it wasn’t meant to be after a slow start to the game, the 22-year-old Hooker experienced his first Test against New Zealand and had a taste of what it feels like to face the Haka in front of a passionate and fired-up away crowd.

“It was a very surreal experience for me,” the utility back said.

“Just being at Eden Park and experiencing the vibe, the energy it was unbelievable.

“I am very privileged to be able to say that I’ve played a Test match here. We obviously try to win every match we play, but we can take the learnings from this game and hopefully be better next week.