New Zealand took advantage of mistakes by the Springboks to take the psychological edge in the World Cup, winning the opening Pool B clash 23 – 13 in Yokohoma on Saturday.
The All Blacks went into the half-time break 17-3 in the lead after two errors led to tries by George Bridge and Scott Barrett.
Richie Mo’unga kicked the conversions also adding two penalties to his tally, with Beauden Barrett kicking one penalty.
Pieter-Steph du Toit scored the Boks’ only try with Handre Pollard kicking the conversion, a penalty as well as a drop goal.
Speaking post-match, Springbok coach, Rassie Erasmus said the All Blacks deserved to win.
“Two tries to one and a ten-penalty count against us means they showed great discipline,” said Erasmus.
The Springboks next game is against neighbours Namibia next Saturday at the City of Toyota stadium.
