South Africa inflicted New Zealand's heaviest-ever Test defeat on Saturday, winning 43-10 in Wellington to level the Rugby Championship series. The Springboks scored six tries to one, with Cheslin Kolbe crossing twice, as they dominated the second half with 36 unanswered points.
New Zealand led 10-7 at half-time after debutant winger Leroy Carter scored the opening try. However, the Springboks transformed after the break, with Damian Willemse, Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman and André Esterhuizen also touching down. The result avenged last week's 24-17 defeat in Auckland and kept South Africa in title contention.
Springbok fly-half Damian Willemse credited a positive mindset and improved execution. 'After reviewing last week's game we knew exactly where we went wrong at Eden Park. Tonight we were much more clinical,' he said. Coach Rassie Erasmus made five backline changes, and despite losing two backs to injury in the first half, the combinations clicked.
All Blacks captain Scott Barrett admitted the defeat would sting. 'There'll be some real discomfort this week,' he said. 'But I'm sure this team will use that to bounce forward.' Coach Scott Robertson pointed to his side's failure to deal with South Africa's high balls. 'When they got rolling, they were relentless. We couldn't buy a moment, and they punished us.'
Former All Black Mils Muliaina criticised the home side's effort, saying on Sky Sport that players 'almost gave up' as South Africa ran riot. Australia lead the championship with 11 points, while New Zealand and South Africa are both on 10.
