NOT BAD FOR STARTERS:
Beauden Barrett: Produced a stunning clearance kick from in goal, when under pressure, after taking a pass from Sevu Reece. Knocked the ball on late in the first half when he was about to make a break. Moved to first-five for the final 14 minutes. 8
Sevu Reece: Knocked on when trying to catch a long lineout throw early in the game. There were only a few times where he was able to show his electrifying pace. 7 Anton Lienert-Brown: Doesn’t get the credit he deserves for his attacking creativity. It was almost impossible for the Springbok defenders to get a hand on him when he went on a run. He still had the awareness to look for teammates in space. 8
Ryan Crotty: Had a quiet game on attack, but was solid on defence. His combination with LienertBrown in the midfield went well, but he was replaced by Sonny Bill Williams for the final half hour. 6 George Bridge: Finished off a sensational try for the All Blacks. He didn’t have to do a lot, but made sure he was in the right place to take the offload from Beauden Barrett. Had to come in looking for work in the second half. 8 Richie Mo’unga: Did well to recycle the ball after making a big break up the middle in the 20th minute after being chased down by Makazole Mapimpi. His chip kicks to Reece worked a treat and he made a trysaving tackle. 8 Aaron Smith: His tackling really stood out and it became futile for the Springboks to attack inside him at the line, even though he’s small in stature. Box kicks were good and never really put a foot wrong in the hour he played. 8
Kieran Read: Strong with his tackling and had the strength and fitness to make back to back tackles when the Springboks attacked his way. 7
Sam Cane: Defended well under early South African pressure when the Springboks attempted to bend the line up the middle. Picked up a head knock early and even though Ian Foster said he was fine, he was taken off at the start of the second half for a HIA and didn’t return. 7 Ardie Savea: Showed the footwork and pace of a winger, while also having the strength of a loose forward. Caused the Springboks problems at the breakdown. 9
Scott Barrett: A couple of big hits