Double reigning world champions South Africa defeated Ireland (27-20) in the first of two Tests on the Irish tour in Pretoria on Saturday.

It all went down to the last quarter of an hour in a tight contest with both teams scoring three tries each. The Springboks pack won a penalty try from a closed scrum (79th) and took the decision a minute from the end.

South Africa lead 20-8 after a try Kolbe (65), but the Irish got back level with two successive tries Murray After a good move (75th) then Baird (78th).

With this success 27-20South African coach Rasi ErasmusDefeated every team in the top 10 in the world right now.

In this clash between the two countries ranked first and second in the world, he was able to rely on his managers: there were already twelve starters in the final of the last World Cup.

The world champions got off to a great start for the winger Arendse First try in the third minute. Both teams then held their own and thanks to a try from the middle, the Irish got back to within five points (13-8) just before the break. Osborne.

The second Test between the two teams will be played in Durban on Saturday.