The four-time world champions South Africa have once again proven their undeniable metal this evening, as they took apart a thinly spread England team 20-29 at the Allianz Stadium.
This marked not only England’s fifth loss in a row but also the first time they have lost three consecutive tests at home since 2006. If Steve Borthwick felt insecure in his position before the match, his feelings this evening will not be any more settled.
England showed plenty of promise during the first half, going toe-for-toe with one of the most experienced international 23s of all time, but their lack of backup options on the bench truly showed once again this evening. South Africa’s substitutes, on the other hand, led by experienced fly half Handre Pollard, arrived from the touchline to only enhance the already purring Springbok attack.
Two tries from Cheslin Kolbe, a wonderful individual effort by Grant Williams and a power play by Pieter-Steph du Toit were enough to deliver the result for the Springboks in a display that will have greatly pleased their travelling fans. For England, it was Marcus Smith once again proving to the talismanic star amid a struggling squad, but it had to be noted that the returning Sam Underhill performed admirably, notching down another try alongside superstar new winger Ollie Sleightholme.
South Africa are expected to rotate their impressively deep squad once again next week when they face Wales at the Principality Stadium, whilst England will look to finally return to winning ways as they host Eddie Jones’ Japan at the Allianz.
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