Ireland Stuns the Springboks with a Nail-Biting 25-24 Win in Durban

by Central News Reporter
0 comments
Ireland Stuns the Springboks with a Nail-Biting 25-24 Win in Durban

IRELAND vs SPRINGBOKS


Durban – Ireland clinched a sensational 25-24 victory (half-time 16-6) over the Springboks in Durban on Saturday evening. This win not only leveled the Castle Lager Incoming Series but also marked the Rugby World Cup champions’ first defeat since their triumphant lift of the Webb Ellis Cup last year.

The game’s fate was sealed by replacement flyhalf Ciaran Frawley, who kicked two impeccable drop goals in the dying minutes for a win that appeared unlikely following a determined Springbok comeback in the second half.

IMG 9770
Ireland Stuns the Springboks with a Nail-Biting 25-24 Win in Durban 7

A Deserved Half-Time Lead for the Irish

Ireland dominated the first half, entering the break with a well-earned 10-point lead. The Springboks, playing in front of a passionate crowd at the Hollywoodbets Kings Park, were left scrambling as their usual dominance was matched by Ireland’s tenacity.

In just the second minute, disaster struck for the Boks when Willie le Roux left the field for a Head Injury Assessment (HIA) following a heavy tackle on James Lowe. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu replaced him and stayed on for the rest of the match.

The opening minutes were intense, with Eben Etzebeth leading the physical charge. However, an early offside mistake by Etzebeth gave Jack Crowley an opportunity to score, which he duly converted, putting Ireland 3-0 up five minutes into the game.

Ireland’s Strategic Superiority

The Irish attack was more urgent and strategic. Jamie Osborne’s clever inside pass found Conor Murray, who sneaked in for the first try of the match 20 minutes in. Crowley successfully converted, extending the Irish lead to 10-0.

Despite a penalty goal by Handre Pollard putting the Springboks on the scoreboard, additional penalties by Crowley reinforced Ireland’s dominance, entering the half-time break at 16-6.

Springboks’ Second-Half Resurgence

The second half saw a renewed energy in the Springbok camp. Encouraged by Rassie Erasmus’ half-time words, they dominated early but struggled to capitalize on opportunities due to handling errors. An early penalty goal by Pollard brought them within reach.

Personnel changes by Erasmus, including Grant Williams replacing Faf de Klerk, and Vincent Koch and Malcolm Marx joining the front row, were strategic. A yellow card to Caelan Doris for foul play handed Pollard another penalty, narrowing the gap further.

As the game progressed, successive Pollard penalties flipped the advantage to South Africa, who lead 24-19 with little more than 20 minutes remaining.

The Decisive Moments

Ciaran Frawley’s entry into the closing stages of the game was a game-changer. Calm under pressure, Frawley slotted a long-range drop goal from 45 metres out, cutting the Springboks’ lead to just one point.

As the clock struck full-time, Frawley once again showcased his composure, nailing another drop goal on the hooter to hand Ireland a historic 25-24 win, leveling the series.

Statistics and Scores

Springboks 24 (6):

  • Penalty goals: Handre Pollard (8).

Ireland 25 (16):

  • Try: Conor Murray.
  • Conversion: Jack Crowley.
  • Penalty goals: Crowley (4).
  • Drop goals: Ciaran Frawley (2).

_______________________________________

Central News Weekly Edition 062: Download the latest weekly edition of Central News Print and Digital Newspaper. Top Story :  “Pretoria High Court Judge Holds Former Gauteng Health MEC and Mental Health Director countable for Life Esidimeni Deaths”

Download Here:

Read all our publications on magzter:

https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues

________________________

Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.

We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.

Advertisement:

To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za

For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za

Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za

General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za

Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za

Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487

Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za

Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube

#centralnewsza #news #politics #business #sports #gauteng #freestate #southafrica 

Related Articles

Leave a Comment

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept