Ciaran Frawley’s late heroics secured a dramatic 25-24 victory for Ireland over a lackluster Springbok team at a packed Kings Park Stadium on Saturday.

Frawley clutched the win with two crucial drop goals, including one in the final minute, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat for the Irish. Handre Pollard kept the Boks in the game with a perfect penalty-kicking display, but it wasn’t enough to overcome their poor overall performance.

Tries were scarce in this encounter, with Pollard taking over kicking duties for the Springboks after missing three penalties in the first Test win in Pretoria. This time, he was flawless, but it wasn’t enough to mask the Boks’ struggles.

Ireland started strong, leading 6-16 at halftime thanks to a brilliant try from Conor Murray, mirroring his effort from the previous week.

The Boks suffered a blow early on with fullback Willie le Roux replaced by Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu due to a head injury assessment (HIA). Injuries continued to plague the home side, with Franco Mostert and Eben Etzebeth also forced off the field in the first half. This disrupted the Boks’ rhythm, allowing the inspired Irish to dominate the opening period.

This win will reignite the debate on who is the world’s best team. Ireland delivered a strong performance, even without their key center Bundee Aki, who was sidelined with an injury.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Grant Williams combined late in the game to create a scoring opportunity for the Boks. Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s kick reached the 22-meter line, allowing Williams to secure a scrum for Pollard to convert a penalty. However, Frawley stole the show with his late drop goals, sealing the win for Ireland and leveling the series. This marks a significant victory for coach Andy Farrell in his 50th match at the helm of the Irish team.

The Springboks now turn their attention to Portugal, who they host in Bloemfontein. This match is expected to see significant changes from Rassie Erasmus’ side.