from DION HENRICK in Cape Town
Western Cape Bureau
CAPE TOWN, (CAJ News) – THE Springboks return to Cape Town this Saturday determined to answer one of their most disappointing performances in recent memory, while the All Blacks arrive with renewed confidence after stunning South Africa at Ellis Park.
New Zealand produced a 33–16 victory in Johannesburg last weekend, ending the Springboks’ 12-match winning streak and taking a 1–0 lead in the four-Test Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
The All Blacks scored five tries to South Africa’s one, with Will Jordan crossing twice, while the Boks were repeatedly punished for handling errors and indiscipline.
Yet the result does not tell the entire story.
South Africa dominated important periods, particularly at scrum time, and created opportunities inside the New Zealand 22 but failed to convert enough of them.
Their biggest task in Cape Town will therefore be turning territorial and physical dominance into points.
The Springboks have also made significant adjustments.
Captain Siya Kolisi returns, bringing leadership and intensity to the pack, while experienced fly-half Handré Pollard has been selected to provide composure, tactical kicking and accuracy under pressure.
Pollard’s ability to control territory could prove decisive in a tight contest.
For New Zealand, Will Jordan is the obvious danger after his two-try performance in Johannesburg.
His finishing, pace and ability to exploit defensive gaps make him a constant threat.
New Zealand captain Ardie Savea will also be central to the All Blacks’ challenge, particularly around the breakdown and in carrying duties.
The All Blacks, however, know the Springboks will be vastly better prepared.
New Zealand coach Dave Rennie expects a stronger South African performance and has acknowledged areas where his side must improve, including physicality, discipline and scrum execution.
So who should win?
South Africa deserve slight favouritism.
Playing in Cape Town, with the disappointment of Ellis Park still fresh, the Boks have both home advantage and enormous motivation.
Their scrum, defensive pressure and experienced replacements could eventually overwhelm New Zealand.
But this is no safe prediction.
The All Blacks have already demonstrated that they can absorb South Africa’s physical challenge and punish mistakes.
Rugby enthusiasts should expect a far closer contest, but South Africa should level the series through greater discipline, improved finishing and a ferocious response from their forwards.
– CAJ News