springboks, manie libbok, ireland

Springboks fans have defended Manie Libbok against cruel trolls.
Images via Instagram: @manielibbok

‘Hands off Manie Libbok’: Springboks fans slam cruel cyberbullying

Springboks fans are defending Manie Libbok from cruel cyberbullies who’ve flooded the flyhalf’s social media platforms with abuse.

springboks, manie libbok, ireland

Springboks fans have defended Manie Libbok against cruel trolls.
Images via Instagram: @manielibbok

Manie Libbok has become a target of cruel trolls following his performance in the Springboks’ clash against Ireland on Saturday, 23 September.

The famous flyhalf – who made his Rugby World Cup debut this year – was cyberbullied for missing several crucial kicks during the game.

But while many rugby fans have left nasty comments, others have vowed to support and uplift the star player amid the backlash.

The Boks were defeated by their rugby rivals 13- 8 at the Stade de France.

ALSO READ: ‘Outstanding’: Ireland captain defends Manie Libbok amid Boks backlash

CYBERBULLIES COME FOR MANIE LIBBOK

During the heated game against Ireland, Manie Libbok came under fire for missing two penalties and a conversion of a try during the game.

According to many rugby fans, the star player was blamed for SA’s loss in their third RWC game.

But angry social media users took things too far by flooding Libbok’s accounts with nasty messages.

Springboks
South Africa’s flyhalf Manie Libbok kicks at goal. Photo: Miguel Medina/AFP

“You need to learn to kick,” posted one IG user. Another added: “You play s**t. Go home”.

ALSO READ: ‘Bring back Pollard’: Mzansi drags Manie Libbok over missed kicks

A third was more brutal: “How does it feel knowing you cost us the Ireland game?”.

‘HANDS OFF’ SAYS SPRINGBOKS FANS

Attempting to silence the trolls, proud Manie Libbok fans came in droves to support their hero. In fact, “ #HandsoffLibbok” soon became a trending hashtag.

Several media personalities also spoke out.

Maps Maponyane shared: “We’re 100% behind you, Manie! You’ve got this. I believe in you, and I know there are millions out there just like me. Pay the negativity no mind. You just keep doing what you do best and bring it home.

Cape Community FM DJ Marco David Alexander-Jacobs posted: “I’m backing this guy all the way! He’s not perfect, but he is ours!

ALSO READ: Friends or foes? Manie Libbok responds to ‘rift’ with Pollard [watch]

James Preston of East Coast Radio shared: “Please, South Africans. DO NOT BLAME MANIE LIBBOK. The man is a maestro. He has far more flare than Handré (who I love, by the way). He just can’t kick like Handré can. Manie needs our support. He is a Bok, after all”