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.
There is a fourth Test next week in Baltimore but the reality is it is a money-spinning appendage to the three matches in South Africa. The Springboks lost the first but have roared back on home soil. They take a 2-1 lead in the series and are unofficial winners of the best-of-three contest in South Africa.
The All Blacks showed their class for much of this contest, which ultimately hinged on Jesse Kriel’s decisive second-half score, just after Will Jordan had struck for New Zealand. From that moment on, South Africa smelled blood and capitalised with the ruthless streak that has crowned them consecutive World Cup winners.
