South Africa produced a commanding second-half performance to defeat New Zealand 29-24 at FNB Stadium on Saturday, moving ahead in the four-match series.
The contest stood level at 12-12 at the interval before the Springboks seized control after the break. Kurt-Lee Arendse continued his try-scoring form, crossing after making the initial break himself, while Jesse Kriel rounded Leroy Carter to add a pivotal five-pointer. The hosts built a 12-point cushion before the All Blacks struck after the hooter to narrow the final margin.
Altitude and workrate
Ethan Hooker delivered a tireless shift on the left wing, relentlessly charging up and down the pitch in conditions that appeared to trouble others. His workload in the air, at the breakdown and with ball in hand compensated for occasional errors. Cheslin Kolbe started brightly, clearing well from his first touch and using his pace to kill off a threatening attack by outsprinting Will Jordan, but injury forced him off before the 10-minute mark. Manie Libbok replaced him and combined effectively with Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu in the kicking game to close out the win.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu endured a penalty-ridden first half yet grew into the contest, posing a threat with ball in hand as the match progressed. In the midfield, Damian de Allende bent and dented the All Blacks' defence repeatedly, showcasing his softer skills by rounding Carter in the first half before assisting Arendse. Jesse Kriel shut down several attacks by shooting up in defence, though he spoiled one attacking opportunity in the 34th minute before making amends with his try.
Forward dominance
Malcolm Marx anchored a forward effort described as a masterclass, central to what one outlet termed an obliteration of the visitors' set-piece and breakdown work. The hooker's performance underlined the value of Rassie Erasmus' Bomb Squad selections, with the replacements maintaining intensity through the closing stages.
The result leaves South Africa one victory away from clinching the series ahead of the fourth Test. New Zealand will need to regroup quickly, having conceded control in the second half after matching the Springboks through the opening 40 minutes. The final encounter will determine whether the hosts can seal the silverware or whether the All Blacks can force a decider.