Rassie Erasmus backs referee call as All Blacks scrum swings Ellis Park Test

In a crucial Rugby World Cup opener, the Springboks faced the All Blacks in a hard-fought Test at Ellis Park. The Boks were in control, with the All Blacks pinned back on their own try line, only to lose a pivotal scrum decision that shifted the momentum. With 16-19 trailing the Springboks and needing just three points to draw, New Zealand capitalized with a powerful scrum on their own try line, extending their lead and shifting the game's dynamics.

Coach Rassie Erasmus backed the referee's call on the scrum, acknowledging that Gerhard Steenekamp had walked around during the set-piece. He attributed their loss to the All Blacks' pressure on the breakdown and loose play, stating that they made mistakes due to New Zealand's superior performance. Despite dominating for most of the first half, the Springboks failed to convert their attacking opportunities, allowing the Kiwis to escape numerous times without conceding points.

Erasmus expressed disappointment, noting that New Zealand excels in stopping teams in their 22-meter area using various tactics.