The Springboks ground out a workmanlike 49-3 win over 14-man Italy in their Rugby World Cup Pool B match at the Shizuoka Stadium in Japan on Friday.
South Africa led 17-3 courtesy of tries by right wing Cheslin Kolbe and hooker Mbongeni Mbonambi at half time and once Italy were reduced to 14 players just two minutes in the second half, the match was as good as over as a contest.
Italy's woes started as early as the 2nd minute when prop Simone Ferrari cried off injured and was replaced by Marco Riccioni.
The 2nd minute of the second half saw Italy loosehead Andrea Lovotti given his marching orders for his role in a spear tackle on Springbok 8th man Duane Vermeulen.
With a one-man numerical advantage, it was only a matter of time before the Springboks would capitalise.
They scored five tries in the second half through man of the match Kolbe, outside centre Lukhanyo Am, left wing Makazole Mapimpi and substitute lock RG Snyman.
Two minutes after the hooter had sounded the Springboks' driving maul again came to the fore and this time substitute hooker Malcolm Marx was the try scorer in a seven-try bonus point rout of the hapless Italians.
The Springboks' final pool game is against lowly Canada next Tuesday. - ANA
