2007 Rugby World Cup: South Africa defeat England

September 14, 2007

South Africa comprehensively defeated defending world champions England in Pool A of the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

South Africa opened the scoring early in the match when Juan Smith scored a try in the sixth minute. Francois Steyn kicked a penalty for South Africa soon afterwards to stretch the lead to 10-0.

England's only chance at goal came in the fourteenth minute when Mike Catt missed a drop goal attempt.

JP Pietersen scored a try for South Africa just before the end of the first half bringing the score to 20-0, and added a second try in the 64th minute. Percy Montgomery kicked 18 points to wrap up South Africa's victory.

South Africa lead Pool A with nine points. England are third on points difference behind Tonga, and must win a difficult match against Samoa next week to be able to advance to the knockout stages.