The Springboks solidified their top position in the IRB rankings with a dominant 45-12 victory over Wales on Saturday evening in Cardiff.
The match began with a strong run down the wing by Cheslin Kolbe, which allowed Franco Mostert to power through for the first try. Jordan Hendrikse successfully converted the try, giving the Springboks an early 7-0 lead within the first eight minutes.
A turnover led to the Springboks adding their second try after Kurt-Lee Arendse made a great run and passed the ball inside to Eben Etzebeth, who touched down.
Springboks remain top of the rankings after Wales win
Just eight minutes later, Arendse scored his first try of the match, extending the Springboks’ lead further. Although Wales managed to score a late try in the first half, the Springboks led comfortably at halftime with a score of 26-5. In the second half, the Springboks missed several opportunities to increase their lead early on, but it wasn’t long before Aphelele Fassi scored in the corner after receiving a pass from Arendse.
The Boks domianted the match and kept adding more tries. Jordan Hendrikse then scored his first Test try following a sniping break down the blindside by Cobus Reinach. Hendrikse converted his own try, bringing the score to 45-5 with three minutes remaining. Wales scored a late try, but the night belonged to the Springboks as they secured a 45-12 victory in Cardiff.
A win for the Springboks sees them end the year top of the IRB rankings.
Who has impressed you the most for the Boks in the recent tour?
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