The Springbok Women's bid for a historic series win over the USA ended in a 19-26 defeat at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, with the visitors levelling the two-Test series after their 34-21 loss at Ellis Park the previous weekend.
The USA were the better side across most facets of the game, outscoring the hosts four tries to three in a performance that represented a significant step up from their first-Test display.
Prop Hope Rogers was the dominant force, scoring twice from close range — both off the back of driving mauls — and carrying relentlessly throughout. Telesi Uhatafe provided the second-half spark, crossing for two tries, including a sharp individual effort in the 50th minute that stretched the lead to 21-12 and effectively put the USA in control.
The Springbok Women showed fight throughout, with Alisha Arries finishing brilliantly for the opening home try after beating several defenders, and hooker Micke Gunter adding a second before the break to keep the deficit to 12-14 at half-time. Ayanda Malinga, operating at centre, crossed for the third late in the match to set up a nervous finish, but the USA defence held firm.
The hosts were hampered by a malfunctioning set-piece, persistent breakdown struggles, and a yellow card to Logan Welman midway through the second half that stifled any momentum the Springbok Women had managed to build.
Jakkie Cilliers converted two of South Africa's three tries, while Bella Vogel landed all three conversions for the visitors.
The series ends level at 1-1.