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Ex-Springbok Rathbone seals Australia victory
Former Springbok Clyde Rathbone scored Australia's match-winning try nine minutes from time to ensure George Gregan marked his 100th test with a 30-26 Tri-nations victory over South Africa on Saturday. Rathbone, who captained South Africa to the International Rugby Board under-21 title in 2002, dived over in the corner to decide a see-saw game where the lead changed hands seven times. In the last minute, Rathbone made a crucial intervention deep in his own half as South Africa broke from their own goal-line. Springbok coach Jake White - who was Rathbone's under-21 coach - attempted to lure the player back to South Africa to play for them earlier this year. But Rathbone said of Saturday's victory over his old country: "There were no mixed emotions at all. I was just happy to be part of the effort and glad that I could contribute to the team's effort in some way. "I have said it before - that there is no question where my loyalties lie. I am going to live in Australia for the rest of my life and that's where I consider home." The win keeps alive Australia's hopes of claiming the Tri-nations title despite an opening 16-7 defeat by New Zealand who lead the standings with eight points after two wins from two games. Australia have five points and South Africa two. The Springboks fly home for their final two matches while Australia return to Sydney to play New Zealand next Saturday. Gregan led Australia out in isolation to mark becoming only the fourth player in international rugby to win a century of caps, behind England prop Jason Leonard (114), French centre Philippe Sella (111) and Australian wing David Campese (101). Gregan said: "As much as I try and say I tried to treat it as just another match, when you are flooded by telegrams and messages you know it's a very special match." The home team trailed by nine points midway through the first half after flyhalf Jaco van der Westhuyzen and wing Jean de Villiers crossed for tries to overhaul the opening score by Wallaby left wing Lote Tuqiri. |
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