The Springboks had to rely on a late comeback after trailing by ten points as they picked up a 30-23 victory over Argentina in Nelspruit on Saturday. The home side were made to fight hard for the win, as Argentina showed yet again what a tough challenge they are on the road.
South Africa trailed 23-13 with just nine minutes to play but tries by Johan Goosen and Warren Whiteley put them ahead, turning things around following their home loss to the Pumas last year.
Coach Allister Coetzee said he was happy with the team's composure late in the game.
"I felt a bit of deja vu after the first test match against Ireland. Luckily this time we could turn it around. So I am pleased with the result," said Coetzee.
"I am not pleased with the 20 minutes before halftime and the 20 there-after. We need to put together longer periods of good play. There were opportunities we did not take, like Lionel (Mapoe) not scoring. We created the pressure, but did not use the opportunities that we created and we need to improve on that."
Coetzee paid credit to the Argentina performance.
"We cannot underestimate this Argentinean side. They are world class. They played wet weather tests against France in June and they looked comfortable today in the damp conditions."
Prop Julian Redelinghuys has since been ruled out for up to six weeks with a hamstring injury, so Lourens Adriaanse has been included in the squad that will face Argentina in Salta next weekend.
This year’s Rugby Championship concludes at Twickenham Stadium for the first time, when Argentina take on Australia on October 8. Tickets are available from £45 for adults, £25 for children (U16) and a family package (2 adults & 2 children) for £115. (Booking fees apply)
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