Overview
- Ireland finished on the wrong side of a hectic card count, with James Ryan shown a 20‑minute red and four team‑mates sin‑binned as the hosts briefly played with 12 men.
- South Africa scored through Damian Willemse, Cobus Reinach and Sacha Feinberg‑Mngomezulu, with a penalty try from scrum pressure; Dan Sheehan claimed Ireland’s lone try.
- Referee Matthew Carley’s decisions drew loud boos as an early high hit by Feinberg‑Mngomezulu went uncarded and multiple Irish infringements led to escalating sanctions.
- The Springboks’ set‑piece and scrum control proved decisive, repeatedly pinning Ireland back and forcing penalties that swung territory and points.
- Andy Farrell called the contest “chaotic” but praised his side’s character, while South Africa remained unbeaten on tour before a finale against Wales and Malcolm Marx was honoured as World Rugby men’s player of the year.