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Weekend Round Up: The Southern Hemisphere Strikes Back
By RugbyPass
Last weekend, touring northern hemisphere sides were - mostly - on top. This weekend, things were very, very different - but no less thrilling
Australia vs Italy
Anyone who takes a look at the final score, and recalls the two teams' records against each other would think this was a foregone conclusion that was really not worth a second glance. That would be a mistake, even though - early in the second half - a 15-point gap suggested otherwise. With 13 minutes to go, that lead had been trimmed to just one point - and things were just a little tense...
New Zealand vs Lions
Despite the pre-match hype, only the die-hardest of Lions fans would have seriously suggested the result of the opening Test at Eden Park was ever in doubt. But forget the result. This was one of the great Test matches of recent years. And that try. So settle down and watch this truly epic match again. And again. And again. Then invite round anyone you know who thinks rugby is boring. And watch it once more.
South Africa vs France
Here's a random fact. Coming into this game, France had a 100% record against South Africa at Ellis Park - or whatever hellish name it officially goes by now after the naming rights were sold. But the Springboks had already won the three-match series, their dander was up, and they had their eyes on a whitewash. What followed would not win new fans to the game, but home fans will take the confidence-boost ahead of the rather more serious Rugby Championship. France, on the other hand...
Argentina vs Georgia
This was a game Argentina had to win, after five defeats on the bounce. They dutifully did - but gave up 14 unanswered points in the final quarter when they really should have been accelerating away. And the way their scrum gave ground was very unArgentinian. Plenty for the coaching team to consider going into the Rugby Championship.
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Latest Comments
Wales were lucky the Boks should put 60 points past them
Go to commentsI'd rate the brothers Hendricks a point or two lower. Jaden has really not delivered on his early promise and Jordan's kicking at posts was quite erratic. Amongst other things.
I was really surprised that DuhDuh was replaced and not Jordan. DuhDuh had a great game and just underlined his class in a backline that was not firing on all cylinders.
Damian Willemse was missed. Hopefully he'll be back to full fitness and have an injury free 2025 (and '26 and '27 and so on until he decides to retire to spend time with his grandchildren).
RG was great. What an athlete.
Very happy that Hanekom made his debut at last. He gave a good account of himself and will hopefully grow into his role on the international stage.
All things considered, this was another frustrating Bok performance. Even though it was a comfortable win, it wasn't a commanding win. This Welsh team should've been put away by a far larger margin.
But I have faith in Dr Rassie. He knows more than I do. Bring on 2027 😁
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