Boks pass bruising test

SOUTH AFRICA head coach Peter de Villiers believes his side are ready for the World Cup knockout phase after advancing from Pool D with a 100% record following a bruising win over Samoa at North Harbour Stadium.

Bryan Habana scored his 40th Test try, with all of the defending champions’ points coming in the first half.

And despite a mighty effort, and George Stowers’ try, Samoa — who were reduced to 14 men when Paul Williams was sent off late on for punching Heinrich Brussow — were unable to keep their last-eight hopes alive.