South Africa seize series advantage after late Soweto surge
The world champions beat New Zealand 29-24 to lead their four-Test series 2-1, leaving the All Blacks needing victory in Baltimore to force a draw.
South Africa have taken a 2-1 lead in their four-Test rugby union series against New Zealand after overcoming the All Blacks 29-24 in Soweto, according to BBC Sport.
The sides traded two tries each in a closely contested first half, with New Zealand’s attacking composure helping them stretch South Africa’s defensive line. The visitors then moved 17-12 ahead in the 55th minute when Will Jordan followed his own kick to score.
South Africa shifted the contest in the final quarter. Jesse Kriel’s second-half try put the hosts in front for the first time, before Malcolm Marx scored from the back of a powerful maul.
A penalty from Sacha Feinberg Mngomezulu extended South Africa’s advantage. New Zealand’s Samisoni Taukei’aho scored with the final play, but the late try was not enough to overturn the result.
New Zealand won the opening match of the series and can still draw it by winning the fourth and final Test, scheduled for Baltimore next weekend. BBC Sport did not specify the exact date.
