AUSTRALIA GO DOWN AGAIN IN RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP

September 30, 2018

Australia’s test record in rugby now stands at two wins from their last ten matches, as they went down 23-12 to South Africa in Port Elizabeth in the Rugby Championship.

Australia were behind in the first minute of play, thanks to a try from winger Aphiwe Dyantyi.  Halfback Faf de Klerk crossed midway through the first half to give South Africa a 14-0 lead.

Australia fought hard to get back into the match, and scored tries through Reece Hodge and Will Genia, to cut the deficit to 14-12 ten minutes before halftime.  Australia conceded penalties, allowing Handre Pollard to slot two goals to give the home side a 20-12 lead at halftime.  The second half was a dour affair, with a further penalty goal from Pollard being the only score.

New Zealand are a step closer to claiming the 2018 Rugby Championship, after defeating Argentina 35-17 in Buenos Aires.  The All Blacks will travel to Pretoria to play South Africa next weekend, and only a heavy loss will see them surrender the trophy to South Africa.  Australia will have a chance of salvaging something from the tournament when they travel to Argentine.  The Wallabies need a win to avoid finishing the Rugby Championship with the wooden spoon.