New Zealand's dominant pack were the key factor as they overcame South Africa in the first quarter-final of RWC 2003, winning by 29 points to 9. Leon MacDonald scored 16 of those, crossing for a try early on and kicking three penalties and a conversion during the game.
He failed to convert tries from hooker Keven Mealamu and winger Joe Rokocoko but, but centre Aaron Mauger did land a drop goal at a key stage as the All Black's scoring ability far outstripped their opponents who were limited to three penalties from Derrick Hougaard.
New Zealand captain Reuben Thorne felt his side were given a tough test by South Africa in their World Cup quarter-final in Melbourne today. Thorne said: "It was a huge game from most of them. I am really pleased with the way they responded. I am very proud of them. They really got tested but they stood up and were counted. This is the way we have been playing the whole time and we want to carry on."
Filed by Brendan Cole
