Why Springboks-All Blacks remains rugby’s greatest rivalry

The Springboks secured a thrilling 43-28 victory over the All Blacks in Baltimore, clinching the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series 3-1. The final Test showcased the Boks' best performance of the four-match series. Here are three key takeaways from the match.

Firstly, the first half of the match mirrored the opening half of the first Test at Ellis Park, with the Boks taking a slim lead into halftime. Early in the game, the Boks scored a penalty, but the All Blacks responded with a converted try from Codie Taylor. Despite missing some crucial penalties, the Boks pushed ahead 17-7 before the break.

However, a try from Damian de Allende and another from Morne van den Berg put the All Blacks ahead. The Boks' second-half start was promising, with a maul try to Malcolm Marx and a strong effort from Pieter-Steph du Toit, pushing them to a 29-14 halftime lead.

Secondly, the All Blacks fought back in the second half, narrowing the gap to eight points by the 63rd minute. Kurt-Lee Arendse's 72nd-minute try extended the Boks' lead to 15 points. Cameron Hanekom sealed the match with a crucial try just minutes later, while the All Blacks managed a late consolation try.

Thirdly, the Springboks showcased their exceptional set piece performance throughout the series. Their scrum, lineouts, and maul were top-notch. The scrum won numerous penalties and produced significant rewards, and the Boks excelled at the lineout, winning their balls and stealing others. The Bok maul also performed exceptionally well, scoring two tries, while the team's breakdown game was another area of strength, with many important steals.