Wales triumph on South African soil after 58 Years
Saturday was a historic day for Welsh rugby as they defeated South Africa 13-12 after suffering 58 years without an away victory over the reigning world champions. Wales looked to be out of the game at 12-3 down but managed to battle back in dramatic fashion, scoring the match’s only try late on, which was then converted by replacement fly half Gareth Anscombe in the 79th minute. A strong defensive performance was enough to see them over the line, setting up a fascinating final Test match in Cape Town to decide the series this weekend.
Wales went into Saturday’s match with their backs against the wall, losing their opening match of the series thanks to a heart-breaking last-minute Springboks penalty. After such a disappointing start to the tour it looked to be an uphill battle for Wayne Pivac’s side to pick themselves up for the 2nd Test match having been so close to what looked like an upset win. However, the team showed great fight and spirit to mount a comeback in Bloemfontein, a ground often feared by opposition teams. With everything now to play for next Saturday in Cape Town, it’s sure to be another enthralling weekend of rugby action.
This summer’s three-match Test series is a continuation of a long rivalry between Wales and South Africa. The teams battle it out for the Prince William Cup, created in 2007 to mark 100 years of competition between the two rugby-loving nations. South Africa still maintain a phenomenal home record and the Springboks will be licking their wounds ahead of Saturday’s decider as they hope to stop what would be a monumental series victory for Welsh rugby.
As the dust settles on what is sure to be a significant summer tour for Wales, attentions inevitably turn to next year’s Rugby World Cup. Wales captain Dan Biggar described next year’s tournament as “a level playing field” after what was a triumphant weekend of rugby for all the home nations, each winning away from home. Fans’ hopes will be further boosted as New Zealand, Australia and South Africa all lost at home on the same day for the first time in men’s Test rugby history. Wales reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2019, losing to the eventual winners South Africa, and after a victorious Six Nations campaign in 2021 Welsh rugby fans will be hoping to go one step further and reach their first ever World Cup final.
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