All Blacks squeeze past three-try Springboks

New Zealand 23 South Africa 21

A Doug Howlett touched down on the stroke of full-time as New Zealand snatched a dramatic Tri-Nations victory over South Africa today.

The Springboks controlled most of the game and had looked to be heading for their first win in Christchurch since 1965 when Howlett dived over in the corner.

Jean de Villiers had got South Africa off to the perfect start when he raced in for the opening try after just 25 seconds.

Jacques Cronje and Fourie du Preez followed him over the tryline and with Percy Montgomery converting all three three, the Springboks led 21-12 at half-time.

The All Blacks were forced to rely on the boot of Daniel Carter and he slotted four penalties to keep his side in touch.

The second half saw Carter add a fifth penalty before he was replaced by Sam Tuitupou and fly-half Carlos Spencer slotted another to get them back to within three points.

The stage was then set for Howlett who thrilled the Jade Stadium crowd with his match-winning score.