Ireland coach hails Springboks win

Ireland coach Andy Farrell said he did not care which team is the best in the world following a last-gasp 25-24 win over top of the world rankings South Africa on Saturday.

Victory for second-ranked Ireland in a Durban thriller levelled the two-test series after the Rugby World Cup holders won by seven points in Pretoria last weekend.

“I honestly do not care who the best team in the world is,” said England-born Farrell

“You would not want to separate these teams and there are probably three or four other countries who come into the conversation.

“World rugby is in a good state when we have this sort of competition,” he added after taking charge of the Six Nations champions for the 50th time.

South Africa completed back-to-back World Cup victories last October in Paris, having recovered from losing to Ireland in the pool stage.

Farrell highlighted the character of his team after replacement flyhalf Ciaran Frawley kicked two long-range drop goals in the last 10 minutes, including one on the final hooter, to snatch a series-levelling win.

It was just the second time Ireland have won a test in 11 attempts in South Africa, with the first in Cape Town eight years ago.

“As far as drama goes and with the pressure we put on ourselves because we were not happy with last week’s performance, this result is right up there,” said Farrell.

“It came against a magnificent team. We had to come out and perform and the character of the team came through. That is what sport is all about.

“It has been a 13-month season for these lads, but you would not think it after tonight. When you play for Ireland, there are no excuses.

“Our tussles with South Africa have been immense and we had to show guts, bravery and composure tonight.

“Our first half was outstanding, as good as it gets, but in the second half we made enough mistakes to last us three games. It was a complete role-reversal from last week.”

Having won the first test 27-20, South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus was humble in defeat.

“It was a very well executed drop goal that made the difference, but I’m not surprised because that is what Ireland do – it is why they are such a consistent team,” Erasmus said. – SuperSport