Updated 15:56
WALES WERE DENIED a historic victory over South Africa in Nelspruit after fullback Liam Williams lost the run of himself in the 78th minute. On course for a first ever away win over the Springboks, Williams shoulder Conal Hendricks in the lead as he dived for a late try attempt in the corner.
The score was 30-24 to Wales at the time and, even if Hendricks had scored, Morne Steyn’s conversion attempt would have been from the touchline. Williams took the law into his own hands and the result, after a TMO, was a penalty try. It was converted to give the Springboks a 31-30 win. The fullback has previous in this regard as he elbowed Paddy Jackson in the head after the Ulster out-half scored for Ireland in this year’s Six Nations.
Warren Gatland’s side led 17-0 after a Dan Biggar penalty and tries from Jamie Roberts and the excellent Alex Cuthbert.
Winger Cuthert crashed over for his side’s second try after teeing up Roberts for a simple score under the posts.
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The Springboks pushed back and reduced the deficit to three points after Luke Charteris and Biggar were binned for separate offences. A penalty try accompanied Biggar’s trip to the bin before Willie le Roux sent Hendricks free for a try in the right-hand corner.
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Ken Owens crashed over for a try after 44 minutes that was awarded thanks to the TMO and referee Steve Walsh, who showed great common sense to give the score after leaving the final call to a full speed replay. Dan Biggar added penalties to stretch the lead to 13 but le Roux cut inside the Welsh defence to set up a tense, tense finish.
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Wales looked to have held on but Williams’ act of foul play gifted the hosts seven points.
Biggar attempted two late drop goals but was unsuccessful each time as Wales tasted late, late defeat again in the southern hemisphere.
