The 10Bet Lions were defeated 41-35 by New Zealand in a thrilling encounter at Ellis Park on August 25, as the All Blacks maintained their unbeaten run on their tour of South Africa.

The victory was New Zealand’s fifth straight on tour, following a 33-16 win over the Springboks at the same venue. The hosts made a superb start, racing into a 14-0 lead through scrumhalf Nico Steyn and loose forward Sibabalwe Mahashe, who intercepted a pass and sprinted clear.

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New Zealand responded through Noah Hotham and Emoni Narawa, but the hosts regained control when Kelly Mpweku finished acrobatically in the corner. Ethan Blackadder’s try before half-time reduced the deficit to four points, with the Lions leading 21-17 at the break.

The hosts continued their charge after half-time, with Erich Cronje crossing following another influential contribution from Mahashe before captain Francke Horn powered over to extend the lead to 35-17.

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The All Blacks, however, produced a remarkable comeback. Rieko Ioane sparked the revival with a powerful solo try before intercepting a loose pass to score again.

Blackadder then crossed for his second try to put New Zealand ahead for the first time.

A crucial scrum penalty inside the final 10 minutes shifted momentum back towards the visitors before Narawa crossed late to secure a dramatic 41-35 victory. Despite the defeat, the 10Bet Lions produced an outstanding display against one of world rugby’s leading sides, pushing the All Blacks all the way in the contest.

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