The All Blacks have survived a major scare in Johannesburg this morning, beating the Lions 41-35 after trailing for most of the match.
The Lions made a blistering start, scoring two tries inside the opening seven minutes through Nico Steyn and Sibabalwe Mahashe.
New Zealand responded through Noah Hotham and Emoni Narawa, but the hosts continued to trouble the All Blacks with their aggressive defence and strong work at the breakdown.
The Lions extended their lead through Kelly Mpeku before Ethan Blackadder pulled one back for New Zealand, leaving the hosts 21-17 ahead at halftime.
The Lions then came out firing after the break, with Erich Cronje and Francke Horn scoring to push their advantage to 35-17.
The All Blacks mounted a remarkable comeback, with Rieko Ioane scoring twice and Blackadder adding another try as New Zealand finally took the lead in the 62nd minute.
The Lions continued to apply pressure throughout the game, but New Zealand held firm before Emoni Narawa sealed the victory with a final-minute try.
The next All Blacks test match will be against South Africa at DHL Stadium in Cape Town this Sunday at 3.10am.
Source: Rugbypass
