South Africa defeats New Zealand 29-24 in third Test of Greatest Rivalry series
Quick Look
- South Africa secured a 29-24 victory over New Zealand in the third Test of the Greatest Rivalry series in Soweto, taking a 2-1 series lead.
- The Springboks overpowered the All Blacks in the final quarter after a tight first half, with tries from Arendse, a penalty try, Kriel, and Marx.
- New Zealand had led 17-12 through Jordan's try but could not hold on.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
The Greatest Rivalry series is a rugby competition between South Africa and New Zealand. South Africa entered the match as world champions and sought to take a series lead after losing the opening match.
Greatest Rivalry Series - third Test
South Africa (12) 29
Tries: Arendse, penalty try, Kriel, Marx Cons: Mngomezulu 2 Pens: Mngomezulu
New Zealand (12) 24
Tries: Savea 2, Jordan, Taukei'aho Cons: Love, McKenzie
South Africa eventually overpowered a spirited New Zealand, who could only outrun their hosts' set-piece power for so long, as the world champions came on strong in the final quarter in Soweto to take a 2-1 lead in a high-quality 'Greatest Rivalry' series.
The two sides traded two tries each in a tight first half, with New Zealand's composure and ambition with ball in hand stretching South Africa's onrushing defence.
The All Blacks sniffed a famous victory when Will Jordan chased after his own kick ahead and crossed for a 17-12 lead in the 55th minute.
But Jesse Kriel barged through Leroy Carter to cross at the other end shortly after and, reprieved, South Africa took full advantage.
Malcolm Marx plunged over at the back of juggernaut maul and a Sacha Feinberg Mngomezulu penalty gave South Africa a cushion that Samisoni Taukei'aho's final-play try could dent, but not fully deflate.
The two teams will meet in a fourth and final Test in the American city of Baltimore next weekend, with New Zealand, who won the opening match, looking to snatch a draw in the series.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
New Zealand will aim to win the final Test in Baltimore to draw the series 2-2
Likely · Within days
Open Questions
- Will New Zealand win the final Test in Baltimore to draw the series?
- What adjustments will each team make for the final Test?
- How will the venue in Baltimore affect gameplay?
