Springboks edge past All Blacks to top Rugby Championship

South Africa secured their third victory in the Southern Hemisphere Championship, coming from a 27-17 deficit with just 11 minutes remaining to clinch a late win through their powerful forward play.

South Africa secured a thrilling 31-27 victory over New Zealand in the third round of the Rugby Championship, solidifying their position at the top of the table in Ellis Park on August 31.

In a closely contested first half, tries from Codie Taylor, Caleb Clarke, and Bongi Mbonambi left the All Blacks leading 12-11 at halftime.

The second half began with Jordie Barrett’s intercept try, giving New Zealand the momentum. However, a late yellow card for Ofa Tu’ungafasi turned the tide in favour of the Springboks.

Kwagga Smith and Grant Williams crossed the line, sealing a dramatic comeback and leaving South Africa with an eight-point lead over their rivals.

This article originally appeared on The Citizen