Steven Kitshoff celebrates with teammates. Photo: Twitter
WATCH: Superb final-play ‘steal’ from Kitshoff
Look back at this memorable final play from the Springboks’ victory against Wales as Steven Kitshoff won a crucial breakdown penalty.
Steven Kitshoff celebrates with teammates. Photo: Twitter
The Boks began their end-of-year tour with a hard-fought win over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday, with the triumph built largely around the Springboks’ renowned defence, while Kitshoff won a crucial penalty in the final seconds.
READ | FRANS IS A ‘GREAT TEAM MAN’ – BOK COACH
Heading into the final minutes of the match, Wales had possession and were still looking to work their way into a position where a try could have handed them victory.
However, the Boks were able to seal the win as the result of a brilliant piece of play from prop Steven Kitshoff, who latched onto the ball at the breakdown.
Referee Paul Williams penalised Wales for holding onto the ball, allowing the Springboks to celebrate a victory in Cardiff for the first time since 2013.
After the match, head coach Jacques Nienaber lauded the South African players for their stamina to outlast Wales for a 23-18 victory.
READ | SPRINGBOKS BEAT WALES IN THE RAIN TO END CARDIFF VICTORY DROUGHT
“We knew it was going to be a tough game, and there was some over-eagerness as we lacked accuracy at times in terms of using our opportunities,” said Nienaber.
“But this was a valuable win for us because we knew these are the same conditions we can expect in the 2023 World Cup.”
Meanwhile, commenting on the injury status in the team immediately after the match Nienaber he would have a clearer picture within the next two days once the medical staff complete their assessments.
“I spoke to our team doctor after the match and it seems that there aren’t any worries around Trevor Nyakane (prop) injury wise, but we will probably know more in the next 48 hours later.”
The Springboks will travel to Edinburgh on Sunday and will begin their on-field preparations for their second Test against Scotland on Monday.
PLAYER RATINGS | FRANS STEYN FIRES FOR THE SPRINGBOKS
