The Springboks retained the Castle Lager Rugby Championship in dramatic fashion, edging out Argentina 29-27 at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on Saturday. Trailing 13-10 at half-time, South Africa staged a remarkable comeback to secure their second consecutive title, with New Zealand finishing second on points difference despite both teams ending the tournament with 19 log points.
The match was a rollercoaster. Argentina dominated early, capitalizing on a yellow card for Canan Moodie within the first two minutes and scoring a try through Bautista Delguy, with Santiago Carreras converting from the touchline. Argentina’s strong start, bolstered by 85% possession, saw them extend the lead to 13-3 through precise penalty kicks.
The Boks began to find their rhythm toward the end of the first half, with Cobus Reinach scoring just before the break, converted by Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, reducing the deficit to three points and giving South Africa momentum.
The second half saw the Boks take control. Malcolm Marx scored from a lineout maul to put the team ahead for the first time. Reinach’s second try and Marx’s bonus-point effort extended the lead, with the bench – including RG Snyman, Jesse Kriel, and Kwagga Smith – playing a key role in maintaining composure.
Argentina staged a late comeback, with Delguy and Rodrigo Isgro scoring in the final 10 minutes, but it was too late. South Africa held on to claim a hard-fought victory, demonstrating why they remain the world’s number one ranked team.
Scorers:
- Argentina 27 (13) – Tries: Bautista Delguy (2), Rodrigo Isgro. Conversions: Santiago Carreras (3). Penalty goals: Carreras (2).
- Springboks 29 (10) – Tries: Cobus Reinach (2), Malcolm Marx (2). Conversions: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (3). Penalty goal: Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
With the Castle Lager Rugby Championship trophy returning to South Africa, the Boks’ resilience, tactical brilliance, and sheer determination were on full display in front of more than 70,000 fans at the home of England Rugby.
My Goat Sports 