Defending Rugby World Cup, champion South Africa started their campaign with a close 17-16 win against Wales last night.
Being grouped in a “Pool of Death”, the Springboks had to rely on a 65th minute try from reserve Francois Hougaard to beat Wales.
Wales had the better of much of the contest and had two late chances to snatch a win, but a drop goal attempt from in-front and a 73rd minute James Hook penalty attempt went wide did not see any points notched.
Wales could also question a first half penalty attempt from Hook that appeared to go over but was waved wide by assistant referees Vinny Munro and George Clancy.
Boks captain, John Smit said his side was lucky to win in a very closely contested match.
“Man of the Match” and Wales captain, Sam Warburton, who is the youngest skipper at this RWC was disappointed with the loss.
In other results, Ireland beat USA 22-10 while Australia defeated Italy 32-6.
In the matches coming up this week, Samoa takes on Namibia this Wednesday at 2.30pm, Tonga will play Canada at 5pm and Scotland will take on Georgia at 7.30pm.
The Flying Fijians opening efforts in beating Namibia was good enough but Captain Deacon Manu knows a repeat won't take down defending World Cup champion South Africa on Saturday.
Manu knows they could end up being thrashed if they don't improve their execution and work rate.
The 2007 RWC coach, Ilivasi Tabua believes one of the key aspects that Fiji needs to improve on is in their kicking game.
Fiji will play their second RWC pool game on Saturday at 6pm against South Africa and you can catch the live commentary on our sister station Viti FM with the voice of rugby Malakai Veisamasama and the expert comment from Ilivasi Tabua.
Story by: Dreu Vukailagi
Feature
Close win for defending RWC champs
