New Zealand survive Lions scare at Ellis Park

Lions 35-41 New Zealand, Ellis Park

New Zealand fought back from an 18-point second-half deficit to beat the Lions 41-35 at Ellis Park and stay unbeaten on their tour of South Africa.

The All Blacks were given their biggest provincial test of the tour, with the Lions producing a spirited performance and scoring five tries. But New Zealand finished stronger, outscoring the hosts seven tries to five and sealing the win late through Emoni Narawa.

The result means the All Blacks have beaten all four provincial opponents on tour, in addition to their 33-16 Test win over the Springboks at Ellis Park.

Lions Make Flying Start

The Lions started with energy and raced into a 14-0 lead inside seven minutes. Nico Steyn darted over for the opening try before Sibabalwe Mahashe intercepted to score the second.

New Zealand responded through Noah Hotham and Narawa, both finishing after expansive attacking moves. But the Lions struck again in the 33rd minute when Kelly Mpeku dived impressively into the corner.

The All Blacks reduced the gap before half-time when Ethan Blackadder scored his first try of the night after another strong running move. The Lions still went into the break 21-17 ahead.

Lions Stretch Lead After Break

Any expectation that New Zealand would take control immediately after half-time was quickly ended. Mahashe broke clear and set up Erich Cronje to score, before a powerful scrum maul gave captain Francke Horn the chance to cross.

Chris Smith converted all five Lions tries, and the home side led 35-17 in the 47th minute.

All Blacks Complete Comeback

New Zealand then found their rhythm. Rieko Ioane scored twice in seven minutes, using his pace and experience to cut the deficit to four points.

Blackadder’s second try in the 63rd minute put the All Blacks ahead for the first time, but only by a single point.

The Lions still had hope of a famous upset and looked to test the New Zealand defence again. But the All Blacks controlled the closing stages and kept the pressure on.

Narawa then powered over for his second try near the end to settle the contest and complete a dramatic 41-35 victory.