Springboks Through to World Cup Final

South Africa are through to the Rugby World Cup final this Saturday after narrowly beating Wales 19-16 to set up a rematch of their 2007 triumph against England.

The first half was a war of attrition, with fly-half Handre Pollard’s three penalties giving South Africa a slim 9-6 lead going into the half-time break.

Welsh number 10 Dan Biggar brought the sides level after the break, only for Damian de Allende to extend the Springbok lead once again to 7 points.

A Josh Adams try out on the wing ensured the last 10 minutes of the game would see both sides going for broke.

Welsh dreams of a first World Cup final were dashed as Pollard knocked over his fourth penalty to take them three points ahead with just 4 minutes to play; no mean feat given the immense pressure of the situation.

The result means they will meet England in the final who will come into the clash as firm favourites following their dominance over the All Blacks; a performance that has really stood Eddie Jones’ side out as world-beaters.

That being said, the pressure is off South Africa, a perk that accompanies underdog status, and many are questioning whether England will be able to match the level they were at against New Zealand.

Whatever happens this Saturday, it will be an incredibly exciting test, the result of which could mark the end of an era of Kiwi dominance, and perhaps usher in a new phase in world rugby.