South Africa levelled their series with New Zealand at one apiece, beating the All Blacks 33-26 in the second Test in a performance driven by Siya Kolisi and Malcolm Marx that was far more recognisable as a Springbok effort after last week's capitulation.
Rassie Erasmus added to the occasion by swapping his entire front row just an hour before kick-off, a move that underlined the boldness with which the world champions approached the match. The Boks blended power and directness throughout, building enough of a lead to withstand a gutsy All Blacks comeback in the closing stages.
New Zealand's ability to finish the match with momentum means they head to the third Test — scheduled for Johannesburg — with confidence that the series remains open. It was not a knockout blow from South Africa, but a significant counterpunch after the manner of the first Test defeat.