New Zealand opened their series against South Africa with a 33-16 win at Ellis Park, scoring five tries and weathering intense Springbok scrum pressure to claim what the Guardian called a statement victory.
Key facts
- First Test final score: South Africa 16-33 New Zealand.
- New Zealand scored five tries against the double world champions.
- It was the All Blacks' first win at Ellis Park since 2022.
- South Africa finished the match with two players in the sin-bin.
New Zealand delivered a commanding opening statement in their series against South Africa, beating the world champions 16-33 at Ellis Park, according to the Guardian. The All Blacks crossed for five tries and drew first blood in a contest that the outlet described as a fitting appetiser to a series that looks set to live up to its billing.
Central to the victory was a double from Jordan, whose two tries helped the visitors seize control against a Springbok side ranked as the world’s leading team. The Guardian reported that New Zealand demonstrated a slickness that the double world champions could not live with.
The win was notable for the way New Zealand absorbed pressure. The Guardian said the All Blacks withstood a barrage of Springbok scrum pressure and produced what it called a masterclass at weathering the storm and taking their chances.
For South Africa, the match unravelled. By the end, the home side had two men in the sin-bin, and the Guardian noted that, given their status as the world’s leading side, the performance must go down as a disintegration.
The outlet also highlighted the Springboks’ unusual struggles with the ball in hand, saying it was hard to remember a time when South Africa were so inaccurate. It added that a backlash from the world champions could be expected as the series continues.
The result also ended a drought for the All Blacks at the venue, delivering their first win at Ellis Park since 2022. With first blood going to New Zealand, the series is poised for a compelling continuation.
Why it matters
South Africa and New Zealand contest one of rugby's greatest rivalries, and an away win over the reigning world champions carries significant weight. The result reshapes expectations for the rest of the series and puts pressure on the Springboks to respond.
Frequently asked questions
What was the final score?
South Africa lost 16-33 to New Zealand in the first Test at Ellis Park, according to the Guardian.
How many tries did New Zealand score?
The All Blacks scored five tries against the world champions, the Guardian reported.
When did New Zealand last win at Ellis Park?
The Guardian reported this was New Zealand's first win at Ellis Park since 2022.