Heyneke Meyer believes his South Africa side have restored hope in the nation following their 46-6 rout of Samoa at the Rugby World Cup.

The Springboks were criticised heavily after a humiliating 34-32 defeat to Japan in their Pool B opener last weekend, with Meyer facing particular scrutiny.

However, JP Pietersen scored a hat-trick as two-time world champions South Africa rebounded with a six-try blitz in a physical encounter at Villa Park on Saturday.

Meyer, though, warned that South Africa still have some way to go to make amends for the Japan loss.

"We're a country that needs hope and forgiveness working for each other," Meyer said.

"We really want to make the country proud. Our country needs a lot of hope and the Springboks are the hope of the country.

"When the Springboks do well the country's in a good place.

"It's been a tough week. It was always going to be a tough game against Samoa. We now have to keep our feet on the ground, stay humble. There's a long way to go."

While South Africa may have impressed with ball in hand, Meyer was keen to credit the team for their defensive efforts.

"I'm proudest of our defence," he added. 

"Samoa are a good side, but they couldn't get the go-forward. The players put their bodies on the line - it was very physical out there."