South Africa overcome Belleau to beat France 17-18

France 17-18 South Africa, Stade de France
Scorecard

Anthony Belleau's 12 points did not prove enough for France as South Africa managed to beat them 17-18 in tight encounter at Stade de France on Saturday.

South Africa started the first quarter strong with Dillyn Leyds crossing past the line. Handre Pollard missed out on the conversion but soon added a penalty to make it 0-8 for the Springboks.

France's response came through Belleau when he scored a converted try in the 26th minute as the gap between the two teams came down to one point leading into the second half.

Belleau further upped the ante with a penalty at the start of the second half as France went on to claim the lead for the first time but a sin-bin to Baptiste Serin dented their momentum, allowing Jesse Kriel to go past the line with Handre Pollard kicking a conversion and a penalty on either side to make it 10-18 in favour of the visitors.

As the final five minutes approached, Serin scored a vital try to give France some respite and a conversion from Belleau meant the gap was down to one point but the Springboks held on to their defence and managed to complete a thrilling win.