Springboks Dominate England in Hard-Fought Win
England made an explosive start as wing Ollie Sleightholme crossed the line just three minutes in. However, South Africa quickly asserted their dominance with a stunning trio of tries from Grant Williams, Pieter-Steph du Toit, and Cheslin Kolbe.
Sam Underhill's powerful charge brought England back within two points by halftime, but the Springboks methodically extended their lead in the second half. Kolbe added a second try, showcasing his electrifying pace, while England's efforts to regain momentum were repeatedly thwarted.
This defeat marks England's longest losing streak since five consecutive losses under Eddie Jones in 2018. The southern hemisphere's rugby powerhouses—New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa—have now all claimed victories at Allianz Stadium over successive weekends.
Unlike last year's nail-biting Rugby World Cup semi-final, where South Africa edged England by a single point, the Springboks were in firm control this time.
England's final autumn test comes against Japan, a side they beat convincingly by 35 points in June. While Steve Borthwick's team will be confident of ending their dismal run, lingering doubts about their form and progress remain.
These are painful days, Borthwick admitted, as questions over England's mounting errors and lack of consistency continue to grow.
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