South Africa 29-24 New Zealand
Hosts hit back for win after early Savea double
There have been moments throughout this series that have made us question South Africa’s status as the standard bearers in world rugby. After this helter-skelter third Test victory that ensures they cannot lose this series, we have an emphatic answer. The Springboks’ power is unrivalled. The All Blacks’ panache has taken them mightily close but South Africa remain firmly on their perch.
A consolation score for New Zealand at the death makes the margin of victory closer than it was. A second-half masterclass from the Boks, the kind that leaves even opponents as worthy as the All Blacks floundering, confirms what has been apparent for some time – South Africa remain the red-hot favourites for next year’s World Cup.
