The All Blacks extended their unbeaten Eden Park streak with a 24-17 win over the Springboks on Saturday in a Rugby Championship contest that delivered on its billing as a heavyweight clash. Here are five takeaways from a gripping encounter.
1. Savea’s Centurion Moment
On the occasion of his 100th Test, Ardie Savea delivered the decisive act. With South Africa pressing for a late score, the No. 8 secured a crucial turnover on the line to end the match. It was a fitting climax for a player whose leadership and defensive work epitomized the All Blacks’ resolve in a game of shifting momentum.
2. A Game of Surges
New Zealand controlled the opening 50 minutes, scoring tries through Emoni Narawa, Will Jordan, and Quinn Tupaea. But the match turned when South Africa’s so-called “Bomb Squad” front-row replacements changed the contest. A dominant scrum and improved lineout work gave the visitors belief, with hooker Malcolm Marx and scrumhalf Cobus Reinach scoring in a spirited comeback. The final quarter was played at fever pitch before Savea’s intervention settled the result.
3. The Tale of Two 50/22s
The difference in execution between the sides was underlined by contrasting 50/22 kicks. Beauden Barrett produced a moment of brilliance with a wrong-footed strike, leading directly to Jordan’s try after precise work from Codie Taylor and Wallace Sititi. Minutes later, Handre Pollard matched Barrett with his own 50/22, but the Springboks wasted the chance when Marx overthrew the ensuing lineout. One side took its chance; the other squandered it.
4. Sititi Steps Up
While Savea earned the headlines, No. 8 Wallace Sititi enjoyed a breakout performance. His powerful carries, accurate handling, and presence in set-piece moves gave New Zealand a different dimension in attack. Sititi’s ability to link with Jordan for the second try underlined his growing influence in the black jersey.
5. Fine Margins Define Heavyweight Clashes
The Springboks’ power game created real problems in the final half-hour, but their set-piece inconsistency and lapses in execution proved costly. New Zealand, by contrast, were clinical in finishing opportunities and composed under pressure in the closing stages. At Eden Park, those fine margins once again proved decisive.
Final Word
The All Blacks’ 24-17 victory showcased both their clinical edge and defensive resilience, while South Africa’s comeback highlighted the impact of their bench. Ultimately, Savea’s centurion performance ensured New Zealand’s Eden Park fortress remains intact.
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