'It's war and you die'

South African coach Peter de Villiers said his side has "great respect" for the Wallabies ahead of their crucial Tri-Nations Test at Subiaco Oval today.

The Springboks go into the match with supreme confidence after their historic 30-28 win over the All Blacks in Dunedin last weekend.

But De Villiers said Australia would be out to make a statement of their own in their first Tri-Nations encounter under new coach Robbie Deans.

"We respect them, we know that they are going to be very tough because they've got a point to prove, too," said De Villiers.

"Everybody focuses on New Zealand falling out of the World Cup, but Australia did too, and I think they've also got a point to prove.

"They've brought a great coach in, brilliant players. I mean if you play without Daniel Vickerman in the locks then the other locks must be great to replace him. So we will be aware of the threats they can pose to us but, then again, it's war and you die."

During their two Tests against New Zealand, the Springboks physically targetted champion fly-half Dan Carter and are expected to adopt a similar approach to Wallabies No10 Matt Giteau.

The Western Force playmaker said he expected some heavy treatment and was prepared for it.

"It comes with the territory as a fly-half; they are the players you try to get to the most," said Giteau. "They control a lot of what the team is trying to do. There are no fears at all, it comes with the game."

South Africa signalled their intentions by naming five forwards in their reserves and Australian captain Stirling Mortlock expects his front row to be fully tested, especially in what is expected to be heavy conditions.

"I have got no doubt they are going to try to take us on upfront," he said. "If the weather conditions continue, I think it will play into their hands."