South Africa Bounces Back with Bonus-Point Victory in World Cup Title Defense
In a stunning display of skill and determination, South Africa’s rugby team, the Springboks, turned their World Cup title defense around with a resounding bonus-point victory over Tonga. The match, held in Marseille, saw both teams fight tooth and nail, but it was the Springboks who emerged victorious with a total of seven tries to Tonga’s three.
The victory not only showcased South Africa’s prowess on the field but also secured a bonus point, putting their World Cup title defense back on track. With five points collected in this match, the Springboks are now on the path to the quarter-finals. Barring any unforeseen upsets, Siya Kolisi’s men will face off against France in Paris in two weeks’ time.
The game started with Tonga taking an early lead through a penalty kick by William Havili after sustained pressure at the breakdown. Tonga, often accused of not fulfilling their potential in this tournament, surprised everyone by playing cohesively around the fringe and at the breakdown. They spent much of the first half camped in South Africa’s 22, but the Springboks managed to score two tries against the run of play.
The first try came from Cobus Reinach, who executed a quick tap-and-go in the red zone just five minutes into the game. It caught Tonga off guard, and the second try further dented their hopes. Canan Moodie ghosted through a static defense after a lucky bounce off Vincent Koch’s shoulder, leaving Tonga waiting for a whistle that never came amidst boos of disapproval from the crowd.
Despite the setbacks, Tonga continued to put up a valiant fight. Their pack displayed aggression in their carries and resolute defense, particularly during South Africa’s set pieces. Refusing to back down, Tonga turned down two kickable penalties in favor of going for the corner. However, their efforts proved futile as Deon Fourie powered over for a rolling-maul try, seemingly sealing the game’s outcome with South Africa’s Handrè Pollard successfully slotting all his kicks at goal.
But Tonga had other plans. Just before halftime, they won another penalty and opted to go to the corner once again. A powerful maul was set up, and after several determined carries from close range, Tonga’s captain and hard-running prop, Ben Tameifuna, breached the line and scored, giving his team a glimmer of hope.
Following South Africa’s loss to Ireland last week, rumors circulated that the Springboks were holding back their best tactics. However, their grinding win over Tonga dispelled any such theories. The match showcased a textbook Springboks performance, emphasizing strong carries from midfield players like Jasper Wiese and André Esterhuizen, as well as a well-drilled lineout and maul – all hallmarks of South African rugby for generations.
The bonus point was secured ten minutes into the second half when Jesse Kriel burrowed low to score a try. Pollard’s accurate kicking throughout the game solidified the notion that his prowess off the tee is a crucial element in South Africa’s World Cup title defense. His perfect record from the kicking tee came to an end as he made way for the equally talented Maine Libbok.
As Libbok entered the field, the game opened up, leading to a flurry of tries. First, Tonga hit back with Fine Inisi exploding on the right with an overlap, followed by Willie le Roux’s try at the opposite end. Both tries involved slick passing and explosive charges. Adding to the excitement, Libbok nailed a difficult conversion near the tram.
And the try-fest continued. Marco van Staden rounded off a swift counter-attack sparked by a pass from Libbok. The most thrilling score came eight minutes from time when Patrick Pellegrini launched a chip and collected a sumptuous knocked-back pass on the touchline before evading a tackler and sliding over. Kwagga Smith had the final say, scoring a try at the death to conclude South Africa’s pool games.
While the Springboks can celebrate their victory and look forward to the quarter-finals, tougher challenges and bigger prizes lie ahead. With their title defense back on track, South Africa aims to build on this success and continue their journey in the Rugby World Cup.
