Mataiasi Stark 
[Source: All Blacks/ Facebook]
New Zealand snapped South Africa’s 12-match winning streak with a commanding 33-16 victory over the world champions in the opening Test of their four-match series at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.
The All Blacks overturned a narrow halftime deficit to produce a dominant second-half performance, scoring five tries to one and handing the Springboks their first defeat since beginning their winning run nearly a year ago.
Fullback Will Jordan starred with two tries, while Josh Moorby, Fabian Holland and Luke Jacobson also crossed for the visitors.
South Africa led 13-12 at the break and looked poised to extend its winning streak after controlling much of the opening half. However, New Zealand’s resilience and clinical finishing proved decisive after the restart.
A crucial moment came just before the hour mark when Holland charged down a kick from scrumhalf Grant Williams and raced away to score, giving the All Blacks the lead for good.
The visitors continued to build pressure, with their replacement front row helping turn the tide in the scrum battle and laying the platform for a strong finish.
South Africa’s challenge became even tougher after two yellow cards left the hosts with 13 players during the closing stages.
The result gives New Zealand an early advantage in the historic series, with the second Test set to be played in Cape Town next weekend.
