South Africa finish strongly to take 2-1 series lead against All Blacks

South Africa 29-24 New Zealand: Boks Take 2-1 Series Lead

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South Africa finish strongly to take 2-1 series lead against All Blacks

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Kriel's second-half try put South Africa ahead in the match for the first time

By

Mike Henson

BBC Sport rugby union news reporter

Published

14 minutes ago

Greatest Rivalry Series - third Test

South Africa (12) 29

Tries:

  • Arendse
  • Penalty try
  • Kriel
  • Marx

Cons:

  • Mngomezulu 2

Pens:

  • Mngomezulu

New Zealand (12) 24

Tries:

  • Savea 2
  • Jordan
  • Taukei'aho

Cons:

  • Love, McKenzie

South Africa eventually overpowered a spirited New Zealand, who could only outrun their hosts' set-piece power for so long, as the world champions came on strong in the final quarter in Soweto to take a 2-1 lead in a high-quality 'Greatest Rivalry' series.

The two sides traded two tries each in a tight first half, with New Zealand's composure and ambition with ball in hand stretching South Africa's onrushing defence.

The All Blacks sniffed a famous victory when Will Jordan chased after his own kick ahead and crossed for a 17-12 lead in the 55th minute.

But Jesse Kriel barged through Leroy Carter to cross at the other end shortly after and, reprieved, South Africa took full advantage.

Malcolm Marx plunged over at the back of juggernaut maul and a Sacha Feinberg Mngomezulu penalty gave South Africa a cushion that Samisoni Taukei'aho's final-play try could dent, but not fully deflate.

The two teams will meet in a fourth and final Test in the American city of Baltimore next weekend, with New Zealand, who won the opening match, looking to snatch a draw in the series.

More to follow.