Rennie hails All Blacks’ resilience after Springboks victory at Ellis Park

All Blacks coach Dave Rennie praised his side’s defensive resolve after New Zealand defeated the Springboks 33-16 in the opening Test of the Greatest Rivalry series at Ellis Park on Saturday.

New Zealand spent long periods under pressure in a closely fought contest, but held firm before producing a clinical finish to secure a significant victory. Rennie said the final margin did not accurately reflect how evenly matched the game had been for much of the night.

“Look, I’m incredibly proud. There was nothing in that game,” Rennie told reporters on Saturday night.

The All Blacks were forced to defend repeatedly as South Africa applied pressure, yet Rennie was pleased with the way his players resisted the Springboks’ challenge before taking advantage of their own opportunities.

“I know the score might sound convincing, but it was an absolute arm-wrestle at 19-16.”

New Zealand’s lead was only three points at that stage, with the match still finely balanced. Rennie said his players responded to the pressure with determination and discipline, allowing the visitors to turn a tense contest in their favour during the closing stages.

“We’re under the pump, and boys barred up. We defended and defended, and then we were clinical, and we got our opportunities. So, yeah, I’m really proud, [it was] a massive effort.”

The result gives the All Blacks an important advantage in the series, but Rennie is not expecting an easy second Test when the teams meet in Cape Town on Saturday.

South Africa must win that match to remain in contention to claim the series, and Rennie said New Zealand were fully aware that the Springboks would respond strongly after their defeat at Ellis Park.

The All Blacks coach described the victory as a major result, while stressing that his team would have to prepare for a wounded South African side determined to recover on home soil.

“You know, a great, great result for us, but, you know, we’re wary of the response that we’ll get next week.”

Rennie’s comments reflected the contrast between the scoreline and the nature of the contest. Although New Zealand ultimately won by 17 points, he viewed the match as a prolonged battle in which neither team was able to establish clear control until the All Blacks capitalised on their chances.

The first Test therefore leaves South Africa under immediate pressure ahead of the meeting in Cape Town. New Zealand, meanwhile, will attempt to build on the defensive performance that allowed them to withstand extended periods of pressure and claim the opening win of the Greatest Rivalry series.