Jason White found it tough against South Africa

"They got a really hard time in the build-up to the game after a poor performance against the World Select," said the Scotland captain.

"And they came out determined to prove their people wrong.

"They are a big team and a good team, but we were not aggressive enough and couldn't secure enough possession."

The Springboks had defeated the World Select 30-27, needing a last-minute Percy Montgomery penalty to claim victory.

But they followed that with tries from Schalk Burger, Breyton Paulse, Andre Snyman and Montgomery in a convincing win in the first of a two-Test series against the Scots.

We are still an evolving team Jason White

"It was South Africa in South Africa," said White, whose side were looking to build on wins over France, England and Italy in the Six Nations Championship and defeat of the Barbarians.

"They are a big team and a good team. France and England are big as well, but we were not as aggressive as we were against them in the Six Nations Championship.

"We are still an evolving team - and this showed we have more improvements to make.

"You need aggression to take your optimum levels with you to every game and I don't know why we did not do that."

The Sale Sharks flanker wants a more resolute showing from his team to prevent another defeat in Port Elizabeth next weekend.

Indeed, South Africa coach Jake White believes his side will be stronger next time round, despite a rib injury picked up on Saturday that is likely to rule out centre Jean de Villiers.