This was in their final match of the 2026 Under-20 Rugby Championship at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday.

In front of a lively crowd of 18,100 supporters, the South Africans produced a spirited performance to finish the tournament unbeaten and underline the progress made under coach Kevin Foote.

The visitors from New Zealand raced into the contest and at one stage held a three-tries-to-one advantage, but the Junior Boks refused to back down. South Africa gradually clawed their way back into the game and turned the momentum around to take a 22-15 lead into halftime after an entertaining opening 40 minutes.

Speaking after the match, Foote praised the resilience and determination shown by his players throughout the contest.

“There were moments where we were under pressure and things didn’t quite go according to plan, but the fight the players showed was outstanding,” said Foote. “Matches like these test your character, and the boys responded brilliantly.”

Junior Springboks - SA Rugby

The coach also highlighted the strides his team had made since previous meetings with the New Zealanders, particularly in their tactical kicking and physical approach.

“Our kicking game was far more controlled and accurate this time around,” he explained. “We played in the right areas of the field and managed territory much better than we did a year ago. That’s a sign of growth within this squad.”

Despite the encouraging signs, Foote admitted there were still areas requiring improvement, especially at the breakdown and in general ball retention.

“We gave away possession too cheaply at times, and against quality opposition you can’t afford to do that,” he said.

Kevin Foote and Riley Norton - SA Rugby

Captain Riley Norton echoed those sentiments after another industrious performance in the second row. Norton admitted the final stages were tense as momentum shifted repeatedly between the two sides.

“The last ten minutes were incredibly intense,” Norton said. “We made a few basic mistakes and lost shape at the breakdown, which allowed them back into the game. But these are exactly the kinds of pressure moments that help prepare you for a World Cup environment.”

Although the draw carried a hint of frustration, the Junior Boks still achieved their bigger goal by ending the tournament unbeaten on 13 points. New Zealand also earned three log points from the draw, while Australia and Argentina both finished on seven points.

Foote also reserved special praise for the Eastern Cape supporters, whose passionate backing created a memorable atmosphere throughout the tournament.

Scorers:

Junior Boks: Tries - Akahluwa Boqwana 2, Rambo Kubheka, Samuel Badenhorst Conv. - Yaqeen Ahmed 3 Pen. - Ahmed

New Zealand: Tries - Dane Johnston, Ollie Guerin, Caleb Woodley, Finn McLeod, Penalty Try Conv. - Cohen Norrie

Morgan Piek OFM Sport