Erasmus warns series not won as Springboks edge All Blacks 29-24 to lead 2-1

South Africa moved to within one win of series glory after edging New Zealand 29-24 in a gripping third Test at FNB Stadium on Saturday, but Springboks director of rugby Rassie Erasmus was quick to cool any talk of a premature celebration.

The result gives South Africa a 2-1 lead going into the fourth and final Test in Baltimore next weekend. Erasmus, however, was emphatic that the series remained very much alive.

“I know a lot of people said that this is the series here in South Africa, but it is not,” he said. “We’ve played three games here and we’re one up, but the final game is still to come. The trophy was actually designed in two halves to be shared if it’s a draw. So, it’s game on.”

The Springboks were made to work hard for the victory, not taking the lead until the 58th minute after spending much of the contest chasing the game. South Africa only created breathing room during a frenetic final quarter before holding off a late All Blacks response.

Erasmus acknowledged the quality of the opposition and the fine margins involved. “They were definitely on top in the first half. All of us I think envy the way they can handle the ball and they’re certainly brilliant at that. Luckily we went in level at halftime which gives you some hope.”

The South Africa coach also admitted the tension in the closing stages was palpable. “I’m not sure what my heart rate was but we were certainly nervous. And I think they were nervous. It’s massive, this is. You’re playing number one and two in the world and it switches one week to the next.”

In a lighter moment, Erasmus joked about sharing a drink with All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie before both squads refocus ahead of the Baltimore decider. “Hopefully me and Dave will have a beer. His will be a little bit more bitter and mine will be a little sweeter. But then on Sunday we arrive there and we get into camp again.”

Despite the series lead, Erasmus was careful not to overstate his side’s performance. “We’re not sitting here thinking we are flipping awesome. We’re thinking there was also a lot of luck that went our way.”

The fourth Test in Baltimore will determine whether South Africa claim the Castle Double Malt Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series outright, or whether New Zealand force a share of the trophy.