South Africa make comeback to draw level with Barbarians

Barbarians 31 - 31 South Africa, Wembley Stadium

A spirited performance in the final 10 minutes saw South Africa come from behind and secure a 31-31 draw against Barbarians at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

Fullback Melani Nanai crossed over early in the game for the Barbarians but lock Pieter-Steph du Toit responded with a try of his own to level the score for the Springboks.

Barbarians skipper and scrum Andy Ellis took his team to the lead after rumbling across the line in the 18th minute which was followed by fly half Robert du Preez's conversion.

But the score was once again equaled by South Africa through Roelof Smit's try and Pat Lambie's conversion. The Barbarians managed a slender five-point lead heading into half-time following the touchdown by wing Taqele Naiyaravoro.

As with the case in the first half, South Africa levelled the scores for the third time in the game with wing Sergeal Petersen strolling across the poss followed by another conversion from Lambie.

Things went haywire for the Springboks when replacement Luke Morahan scored a double try between the 54th and 67th minute while reserve fly-half Richie Mo'unga added the extras on both the occasions.

With 10 minutes to go, South Africa were trailing by 12 points but tries from centre Francois Venter and Janse van Rensburg and a conversion from Lambie ensured they ended the game with a draw.