Springboks peg back the Baa-Baas
BARBARIANS 31 SOUTH AFRICA 31
ROHAN JANSE VAN RENSBURG’s try earned South Africa a 31-31 draw with the Barbarians at Wembley Stadium after coming back from 31-19 behind.
Under-pressure Springboks coach Allister Coetzee fielded an inexperienced side as he looked for a strong showing from his charges ahead of next week’s clash with England following the 57-15 defeat to New Zealand in the Rugby Championship.
Melani Nanai went over out wide early on for the Barbarians, but South Africa rallied and levelled from a lineout with Pieter-Steph du Toit crashing over.
A smart interchange of passes saw the Baa-Baas reclaim the lead as Andy Ellis went in with Robert Du Preez converting, but another strong line-out from the Boks saw Roelof Smith go in and Pat Lambie converted to level the scores.
Taqele Naiyaravoro put the Barbarians ahead for a third time just before the break, but Sergeal Peterson went in at the corner four minutes into the second period and Lambie’s conversion put the Springboks ahead for the first time.
But a pair of tries from Lukr Morahan, both converted by Richie Mo’unga put the Barbarians in control before South Africa launched their late rally.
Francois Venter and Van Rensburg tries and a Lambie conversion earned them a draw.