South Africa outmuscles New Zealand 29-24 to take a 2-1 rugby series lead

Johannesburg (AP) — South Africa's powerful forward play secured a 29-24 victory over New Zealand, giving the Springboks a 2-1 lead in their historic rugby series on Saturday. For the first time in the series, both teams matched each other with four tries apiece, with Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu replacing the injured Cheslin Kolbe and kicking two successful conversions.

New Zealand's Ardie Savea scored twice but was forced to leave the field due to injury, depriving his team of their key player and physical presence. New Zealand also missed out on seven potential points after Ruben Love managed to convert only one out of four goal attempts. The All Blacks still have a chance to secure a series draw in the final match next Saturday in Baltimore, but it's likely they will do so without Savea.