After a cagey start in the Pool B clash, Wales managed to escape the clutches of the South Africa defence in the third minute to race away for what appeared to be a certain try.
Richard Smith made the initial bust before off-loading to Rhys Shellard. He spun out of two tackles and sped downfield. Even when Cecil Afrika got back Shellard had the presence of mind to pass infield to Alex Walker.
With the South African defence at sixes and sevens Walker managed to flick the ball up to the supporting Smith. He then swapped passes with Shellard who then switched the ball back to Walker who then dropped the ball with the try-line at his mercy. The shock on Walker’s face said it all.
At this level chances against the top flight teams are few and far between and when they come your way you have to grab them. Wales didn’t and were then made to pay.
With the Welsh defence stretched, South Africa eventually worked Boom Prinsloo over with just 28 seconds remaining of the first half to give South Africa a 5-0 lead at the interval.
Dangerman Afrika breezed over in the opening minute of the second half but despite Lee Williams and Richie Pugh going close, Wales were unable to cross the line to crash to a disappointing defeat.
A disappointed Wales skipper Richie Pugh, said: “It was a huge effort against South Africa. We fought all the way but just didn’t take our opportunities. New Zealand is up next and they don’t come much bigger than that.”
Wales will also play USA in their final pool match tomorrow before the knockout stages are confirmed.
