All Blacks beat Springboks 33-16 in opening test
The All Blacks defeated the Springboks 33-16 in the first test of their four-match series at Ellis Park. New Zealand's victory ended South Africa's 12-match winning streak and provided a significant psychological advantage for the remainder of the tour.
Why it matters
This result significantly alters the competitive landscape of international rugby and impacts the world rankings of the two top-tier teams.
New Zealand overcame a tough physical challenge to outscore South Africa five tries to one and win the first test 33-16 at Ellis Park on Saturday to go one-up in the four-match series. The All Blacks had been underdogs going into the first international of their eight-match tour but took full advantage of the hosts' numerous handling errors and ill discipline for a statement victory that ended a 12-match winning streak for the Springboks and will rock the confidence of the world champions. Will Jordan extended his run as New Zealand’s record try scorer with two tries that bookended scores from Josh Moorby, Fabian Holland and Luke Jacobson. Ruben Love kicked over four conversions. South Africa’s try came from Andre Esterhuizen with three penalties and a conversion from Cheslin Kolbe.
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