South Africa 35-7 New Zealand: World Cup holders hand the All Blacks a document beating at Twickenham forward of title defence in France
South Africa parked their tanks on England’s garden on Friday night time, confirmed what high Check rugby seems like and proved they’re able to retain the World Cup, with a document rout of the All Blacks.
This heavyweight conflict between two southern superpowers introduced sporting gravitas to an enviornment which has staged far too many turgid, low-grade worldwide fixtures of late.
It was compelling and punishing, not least for Scott Barrett, the All Black flanker, who was despatched off for a wild, off-the-ball shoulder cost on Malcolm Marx a minute earlier than half-time. It was a harmful, ugly offence which certainly warrants a protracted ban.
However a lot of what was produced by the victors in entrance of a capability crowd was removed from ugly. South Africa confirmed that they’ll defend the title they gained in 2019, with an indication of drive and aptitude.
It might be untimely to write down off New Zealand, however by no means of their proud historical past have they been overwhelmed so badly by anybody and it’ll savagely dent their perception forward of a event opener in opposition to hosts France in Paris.
South Africa recorded a cushty victory in opposition to New Zealand at Twickenham on Friday night time
The World Cup holders ran in 5 tries in preparation for the beginning of their World Cup defence in September
Captain Siya Kolisi will likely be hoping to elevate extra silverware on the World Cup in France
In concept, these nice rivals may meet once more within the World Cup quarter-finals. If that’s the case, the Springboks are certain to take coronary heart from hanging an enormous psychological blow right here. And their rookie centre, Canan Moodie, gave a glimpse of the outstanding expertise which may make him a worldwide sensation.
On Saturday, on the identical patch of grass in south west London, England should in some way attempt to reside as much as the requirements set final night time. They are going to battle to take action – and their recreation in opposition to Fiji may have an after-the-Lord-Mayor’s-show really feel to it.
There was an actual sense of event and anticipation for this mighty match. South Africans took over off the sphere and had been quickly doing so on it. Throughout the first 5 minutes there had been extra thrills and spills than England typically ship in a full 80, because the world champions pounded ahead in search of a gap attempt.
For these right here extra used to box-kicks and tedium, it was like rugby from one other, unique planet. That’s to not say it was error-free – removed from it – however there was power and intent, tribal ferocity and defensive defiance. There was no rating till the 18th minute, nevertheless it was completely absorbing.
Unwell self-discipline proved expensive for the All Blacks all through the document defeat
New Zealand will likely be hoping to bounce again rapidly as they start their World Cup marketing campaign in opposition to France on September 8
The Boks continued to dominate and with two yellow playing cards hampering the All Blacks’ rear-guard motion, Siya Kolisi powered by means of their defence to attain. Moments later, Faf de Klerk – beforehand decried as a kicking scrum-half – burst away from a scrum to launch a counter-attack from his personal 22. It was one other demonstration of tempo and a daring streak. No is saying ‘boring boring Boks’ now.
Quickly after that, a uncommon Kiwi raid featured superb dealing with by backs and forwards alike, earlier than Canan Moodie intercepted a go and launched Damian Willemse in a single gorgeous motion which drew gasps within the stands. That is how the perfect groups are enjoying nowadays. That is what rugby is meant to seem like. How refreshing.
Kurt-Lee Arendse, one other new South African star, rating his facet’s second attempt with an interception and as soon as Scott Barrett had been dismissed, the result was all however inevitable. Marx struck for the Boks simply after half-time and the magnificent Moodie was denied a memorable solo attempt by a minor infringement within the build-up.
However the Boks stored coming and scored once more as a lineout drive ended with Bongi Mbonambi touching down. Kwagga Smith was subsequent to puncture the New Zealand defence and keep the onslaught, earlier than Cam Roigard snatched a long-range comfort for the humbled All Blacks.
