South Africa beat Scotland 42-28 in thrilling Nations Championship clash

South Africa have defeated Scotland 42-28 in a thrilling Nations Championship encounter in Pretoria to deny the visitors a historic first victory on South African soil.

The double world champions were made to work tirelessly for their win by Gregor Townsend’s resurgent side.

Scotland had arrived in the southern hemisphere full of confidence after already dispatching England, France and Argentina in impressive fashion earlier this year.

That hard-earned momentum looked precarious early on as the powerful hosts raced into a commanding 14-0 advantage.

Scottish resilience stuns world champions

The visiting side refused to capitulate and produced a stunning fightback to level the match by half-time.

However, the Scots were ultimately left to regret their failure to capitalise on a crucial numerical advantage early in the second period.

Springbok forward Ben-Jason Dixon was sent to the sin-bin, but the away side could not convert their temporary dominance into points.

Late surge secures Springbok victory

The home side appeared to finally shatter Scottish resistance with a devastating 10-minute spell either side of the hour mark.

Three quickfire tries restored a comfortable cushion for the reigning global champions.

Refusing to yield, Townsend’s men mounted another stirring comeback through well-worked scores from Josh Bayliss and Ben White.

Those late efforts closed the deficit to a single converted try, setting up a nervous finale for the expectant Pretoria crowd.

The tense atmosphere was only lifted when Jesse Kriel crossed for a decisive breakaway try to guarantee a hard-fought result.