Rugby: Ardie Savea heading home as All Blacks rue missed chances in third test defeat
The All Blacks suffered a 29-24 defeat to the Springboks in the third test of their series, leaving the team trailing 2-1. Coach Dave Rennie expressed frustration over his team's lack of clinical execution and inability to counter South Africa's set-piece dominance.
Why it matters
The result highlights the ongoing tactical rivalry between two of the world's top rugby nations and the pressure on the All Blacks coaching staff.
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie was both disappointed and frustrated with the third test defeat to the Springboks, but he believes they're "close" to beating the World Champions.
The All Blacks started well in front of about 90,000 fans in Soweto and took and early 7-0 lead - something they weren't able to do in the first two tests.
However, the Springboks worked their way back into the match and levelled the score 12-12 by halftime.
The host's scrum dominance and seemingly unstoppable lineout mauls helped them take the lead midway through the second half and never relinquish it.
It was again a contrast of styles with the All Blacks trying to play at a high tempo with ball in hand and run the Springboks ragged in the Johannesburg Highveld, while the hosts took every opportunity to go to set piece and employ their power game.
Also covering this story
6 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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Ardie Savea OUT of Springboks-All Blacks Test in Baltimore
Dave Rennie's 12-word verdict on the Springbok scrum in Soweto
Boks take ‘moral victory’ in series after overpowering All Blacks in Soweto
All Blacks vs Springboks: Where the defining third test will be won and lost - Liam Napier
Rassie becomes most successful All Black slayer as Boks take series lead
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