South Africa edge out All Blacks 18-12 to close in on title

South Africa fought back to beat New Zealand 18-12 and close in on the Rugby Championship title after the fourth of six rounds.

Trailing 9-3 at half-time, the world champions took the lead when captain Siya Kolisi dived over for a try converted by Handre Pollard early in the second half.

All Blacks fly-half Damian McKenzie missed an easy-looking penalty with the score at 13-12 to the Springboks, who soon extended their lead.

With the All Blacks down to 14 players after Tyrel Lomax was sin-binned, Malcolm Marx touched down just inside the corner flag for a lead that proved to be enough.

Springboks captain Siya Kolisi says they knew the All Blacks would bring it hard, after his side's victory, which also earned the Freedom Cup, a trophy contested by the two countries since 2004.

Kolisi says they have been through a similar period and know the All Blacks will turn it around.

The All Blacks, who let a 10-point lead slip before losing to South Africa a week earlier, were ahead throughout a disjointed first half thanks to McKenzie’s boot.

But after half-time, Kolisi went over for a try from close range shortly after Eben Etzebeth had been stopped just short of the New Zealand line.

McKenzie then hit the post with another penalty attempt, but his miss almost straight in front of the posts from about 35 metres proved a turning point.

All Blacks captain Scott Barrett says they had opportunities, and against a quality side like the Springboks if you do not take them they will punish you.

South Africa play Argentina away, then at home, in their remaining Rugby Championship fixtures.

The Pumas are currently leading the Wallabies 46-27

Source: BBC