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Springboks hold on to level series as All Blacks again win try count

The Springboks beat New Zealand 33-26 in Cape Town to level the four-match series at 1-1, with Cheslin Kolbe kicking 18 points and the lineout proving decisive despite another strong All Black finish.

The Springboks levelled the four-match series at 1-1 with a 33-26 win over New Zealand in Cape Town on Saturday, though they were made to work hard after squandering a 16-point second-half lead.

Three first-half tries — from Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende and Siya Kolisi — put South Africa in control, with Kolisi also making his mark defensively with a crowd-pleasing hit on Ardie Savea. The Boks led 24-14 at the break.

As in the first Test, however, New Zealand finished the stronger side and again won the try count, this time 4-3. Cam Roigard, Damian McKenzie, Leroy Carter and Savea crossed for the All Blacks, with Ruben Love converting three.

Cheslin Kolbe was the decisive factor with the boot, landing four penalties and three conversions for a personal haul of 18 points. The Bok lineout also proved critical, with Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager and Ruan Nortje stealing or disrupting All Black ball at key moments to protect the lead when it mattered most.

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