Boks suffer narrow 42-38 defeat to Wallabies in Perth Test

In a tense one-off Test match at Perth, the Springboks fell short, losing 42-38 to the Wallabies. Struggling with fatigue, the Boks were outmatched by the Wallabies, who scored five tries to the Boks' five. The Boks entered the game with 13 changes, with Handre Pollard returning from injury and contributing the opening points. After the Wallabies initially refrained from contesting lineouts, the Boks scored a try in the 10th minute when Johan Grobbelaar's hooker made it his first test try.

The Wallabies gained momentum, with Len Ikitau scoring two tries, including a second one in the 24th minute, drawing the match at 10-10. Canan Moodie's assisted pass from the Wallabies led to Edwill van der Merwe's seventh test try, leveling the score at 17-17. The Wallabies capitalized on sustained pressure, taking the lead in the 39th minute with Ben Donaldson's try.

In the second half, Australia took control, scoring two penalties and a try from Harry Wilson before halftime. The Boks trailed 37-17, needing three converted tries to turn the tide. Despite the Wallabies' relentless pressure, Max Jorgensen scored the Boks' fifth try. Australia's loss of a man led to a penalty try for South Africa, and Morne van den Berg's urgency helped the Boks score another try.

With the Wallabies down to 11 men, Ox Nche became the Boks' first test try scorer, bringing them within a score of victory. Australia's determination prevailed, securing a 42-38 win. The Boks now have a month to recover before engaging in the European portion of the Nations Championship in November.