South Africa vs Ireland at rugby union - Definition and Overview

Ireland arrived in South Africa for the their two-match tour in 2004 as favourites to win their first game against South Africa on South African soil. South Africa fielded a young and inexperienced side and a new coach. Ireland had beaten World Champions England in the Six Nations, and had a settled side with a dangerous backline led by Brian O'Driscoll. However, at altitude in Bloemfontein, a dominant forward performance, led by the returning Os du Randt and lock Bakkies Botha, did not allow Ireland's backline much quality ball, and South Africa won the first test 31-17. The second test, in Newlands, Cape Town, was closer. With Botha out injured, the Irish made the South African lineout struggle, and the forward battle was more even. However, some solid defensive play, and good finishing, saw the South Africans home.

The two teams were to meet again in November 2004. In the second Test of South Africa's "Grand Slam" tour of Britain and Ireland, the Boks visited Lansdowne Road. The difference proved to be a controversial Ireland try in the 21st minute. Joe van Niekerk was called for a penalty that most Boks supporters considered dubious. The referee then called time out and directed Boks captain John Smit to speak to his players. While Smit had his back turned and the rest of the team was gathering toward him, the referee called "time on". Ireland's Ronan O'Gara tapped, ran past the Boks, and touched down; the try was given despite the Boks' protests. The Boks were also victimized by a questionable penalty in the second half, when Schalk Burger was sin-binned on a debatable charge of handling illegally in a tackle. Ireland won only its second victory ever against the Boks by a 17-12 score.

See also

• South Africa national rugby union team
• Ireland national rugby union team