Top 20 Springbok Tries in the Last 5 Years That Shocked the World: A Tribute to South Africa’s Rugby Excellence
South Africa’s Springboks have long been a formidable force in the world of rugby, but the last five years have witnessed some of their most breathtaking and awe-inspiring tries that have truly shocked the rugby world. From dramatic last-minute finishes to brilliant individual displays of skill, these tries have not only thrilled South African fans but also captured the imagination of rugby enthusiasts around the globe. Let’s take a look back at the top 20 Springbok tries from the past five years that left us on the edge of our seats and made history in the process.
1. Cheslin Kolbe’s Wonder Try Against England (2019 World Cup Final)
Cheslin Kolbe’s dazzling try in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final against England will go down as one of the greatest moments in the sport’s history. With South Africa clinging to a slim lead, Kolbe produced a moment of magic, darting past England’s defense and scoring a try that helped seal the victory. His agility, speed, and composure under pressure were truly world-class.
2. Makazole Mapimpi’s Historic World Cup Try (2019 World Cup Final)
History was made in the same final when Makazole Mapimpi crossed the line, becoming the first South African to score a try in a World Cup final. His try was a testament to the Springboks’ precision and clinical finishing as they secured their third World Cup title, a monumental achievement in South African rugby.
3. Damian de Allende’s Power Try Against the All Blacks (2020)
Against their fierce rivals, New Zealand, in 2020, Damian de Allende showcased his strength and determination as he powered through the All Blacks’ defense for an unforgettable try. It was a perfect demonstration of his physicality and the Springboks’ ability to match the best in the world.
4. Bongi Mbonambi’s Brilliant Line-Out Try (2020)
Bongi Mbonambi’s line-out try against Argentina in 2020 was one of those moments where everything fell into place. South Africa’s ability to capitalize on set-piece dominance was on full display as Mbonambi’s powerful finish after the maul caught everyone off guard. It was a game-changing try that set the tone for South Africa’s aggressive play.
5. Faf de Klerk’s Quick Thinking Against England (2019)
Faf de Klerk’s try against England in 2019 showed his incredible rugby IQ. A quick tap and go after a penalty caught England’s defense napping, and he dashed through to score an easy try, demonstrating the unpredictability and pace of the Springbok game.
6. Sbu Nkosi’s Speed Against Argentina (2019)
Sbu Nkosi’s electrifying try against Argentina was one of the standout moments in 2019. A perfect kick through from Handré Pollard set up Nkosi, who showcased his blistering speed to finish with style. It was a try that underscored the Springboks’ attacking potential.
7. Lukhanyo Am’s Intercept Try Against the All Blacks (2020)
Lukhanyo Am’s intercept try against New Zealand in 2020 was a masterclass in defensive reading and counter-attacking. As the All Blacks tried to build a dangerous attack, Am’s quick reflexes and sense of timing saw him snatch the ball and race away for a brilliant score.
8. Warrick Gelant’s Breakaway Try Against the Wallabies (2020)
Warrick Gelant’s stunning breakaway try against Australia was a result of a powerful counter-attack. Gelant’s speed, coupled with his ability to elude defenders, showcased the Springboks’ lethal transition from defense to attack.
9. Pieter-Steph Du Toit’s Try After a Line-Out Move (2020)
One of the most remarkable moments of 2020 came when Pieter-Steph Du Toit scored a try off a well-executed line-out move. The South African forwards combined to perfection, creating the perfect opportunity for Du Toit to storm over the line.
10. Siya Kolisi’s Leadership and Try Against the All Blacks (2021)
As the captain of the Springboks, Siya Kolisi’s leadership on and off the field has been instrumental to their success. In 2021, Kolisi scored a vital try against the All Blacks, proving his worth not just as a leader but as a game-changer, inspiring his teammates with his relentless work rate.
11. Faf de Klerk’s Support Play Try (2021)
Faf de Klerk once again showed his incredible awareness when he scored a try off the back of a sustained South African attack. His ability to be in the right place at the right time was key to this slick try that saw the Springboks pull away in a crucial match.
12. Franco Mostert’s Brilliant Support Try (2021)
Franco Mostert is renowned for his work rate, and in 2021, his work ethic paid off when he latched onto a beautiful pass to score a try. His tireless efforts off the ball allowed the Springboks to capitalize on a well-constructed play, putting his stamp on the match.
13. Handré Pollard’s Long-Range Kick and Try (2022)
Handré Pollard’s long-range kick was one of the standout moments of 2022, but it didn’t stop there. He quickly supported his kick, chasing the ball down and scoring a try to seal an impressive solo effort. Pollard’s vision and skill were on full display.
14. Dillyn Leyds’ Brilliant Step and Try (2021)
Dillyn Leyds’ dazzling footwork and balance helped him score one of the finest tries of the year in 2021. His quick thinking and ability to break through the defensive line with a clever step had fans in awe of his talent.
15. Cheslin Kolbe’s Sprint Against the British & Irish Lions (2021)
Cheslin Kolbe added another iconic try to his resume during the 2021 series against the British & Irish Lions. His speed and precision were too much for the Lions, and his blistering sprint down the wing to score was a game-changer in the series.
16. Damian de Allende’s Classy Break Against Wales (2022)
Damian de Allende’s break against Wales in 2022 highlighted his agility and strength, as he glided through the defensive line before finishing with a powerful try that reaffirmed his status as one of the world’s premier midfielders.
17. Jesse Kriel’s Quick Counter-Attack Try (2023)
Jesse Kriel’s try off a quick counter-attack in 2023 was an example of how South Africa’s defense often transforms into one of their most potent attacking weapons. The Springboks pounced on an opportunity, and Kriel’s blistering pace finished off the move in style.
18. Lukhanyo Am’s Sensational Kick and Chase (2022)
Lukhanyo Am’s vision was on display once again in 2022 when he executed a sensational kick and chase that left the opposition defenders scrambling. His awareness of the space and his ability to anticipate the bounce were key to the try.
19. Marco van Staden’s Breakdown Try (2021)
Marco van Staden’s try in 2021 came after a brilliant breakdown steal. His ability to turn over the ball in critical moments and quickly transition from defense to offense was key to this try, which demonstrated his value to the team.
20. Elton Jantjies’ Kick and Chase Against the Wallabies (2021)
Elton Jantjies’ kick and chase against the Wallabies was a textbook example of how to execute a perfect tactical kick. His precision and timing allowed him to pounce on the loose ball, ensuring a stunning finish and another victory for the Springboks.
Conclusion
The last five years have undoubtedly been filled with magical moments for South Africa’s Springbok rugby team. From dazzling individual brilliance to clinical team play, these tries have contributed to the team’s status as one of the world’s rugby powerhouses. With talent like Kolbe, Mapimpi, and de Allende leading the charge, the Springboks continue to shock the world and showcase the skill, power, and passion that make them one of the most feared teams in the game.
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