New Zealand vs South Africa LIVE: Rugby Championship result and reaction as All Blacks beat Springboks...

 

In a powerful display that resonated in this World Cup year, New Zealand rugby surged ahead with another explosive start, securing a commanding 35-20 triumph over South Africa rugby at Auckland's Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday. The All Blacks left an indelible mark on the Rugby Championship, positioning themselves strongly for the coveted trophy.

Employing an electrifying blend of attacking rugby and unwavering physicality, the All Blacks wasted no time in asserting their dominance, finding the tryline early on through the contributions of Aaron Smith and Shannon Frizell. As the match neared its conclusion, Will Jordan and Richie Mo'unga added to the tally, solidifying their team's victory with flair and precision.

In a highly anticipated clash, the world champions, South Africa, found themselves on the back foot, struggling to maintain possession and frequently penalized. The early onslaught from New Zealand left them shellshocked. However, the resilient Springboks managed to regroup in the second half, scoring tries through Malcolm Marx, Cheslin Kolbe, and Kwagga Smith.

The victory marked the All Blacks' second consecutive win in the truncated Rugby Championship, following their 41-12 triumph over Argentina, which was similarly fueled by an early blitz of tries.

Relive the thrilling encounter from the Rugby Championship below:

New Zealand vs South Africa - Rugby Championship Latest Updates

Result: Full-Time - New Zealand 35-20 South Africa

Try: New Zealand 30-15 South Africa (Will Jordan, 69th minute)

Try: New Zealand 23-15 South Africa (Cheslin Kolbe, 62nd minute)

Try: New Zealand 20-10 South Africa (Malcolm Marx, 54th minute)

Try: New Zealand 17-0 South Africa (Shannon Frizell, 16th minute)

Try: New Zealand 7-0 South Africa (Aaron Smith, 5th minute)

Final Score: New Zealand 35-20 South AfricaThat tough opening quarter ultimately ended South Africa’s chances, leaving their bench too much to do. Jacques Nienaber and Rassie Erasmus won’t panic, but will have a few things to consider before the Springboks host Argentina at Ellis Park on 29 July. The performance of Damian Willemse could be a concern - might Manie Libbok displace the versatile back as Handre Pollard’s lead fly-half understudy? An off-key showing from Jasper Wiese suggests Duane Vermeulen might yet be best placed to take the starting number eight shirt come the World Cup, too.

That tough opening quarter ultimately ended South Africa’s chances, leaving their bench too much to do. Jacques Nienaber and Rassie Erasmus won’t panic, but will have a few things to consider before the Springboks host Argentina at Ellis Park on 29 July. The performance of Damian Willemse could be a concern - might Manie Libbok displace the versatile back as Handre Pollard’s lead fly-half understudy? An off-key showing from Jasper Wiese suggests Duane Vermeulen might yet be best placed to take the starting number eight shirt come the World Cup, too.