Springboks grind out 22-21 victory over excellent Argentina

JOHANNESBURG :Flyhalf Manie Libbok scored a breakaway try against the run of play to secure South Africa a bruising 22-21 victory over Argentina and earn a second-place finish in the Rugby Championship at Ellis Park on Saturday.

The Springboks had to withstand heavy Argentine pressure, some of their own making through poor execution, but managed to grind out the win as they also scored tries through lock Eben Etzebeth and centre Damian de Allende.

Argentina were in the contest all the way but battled to break down the resolute home defence and got tries late on through wing Mateo Carreras and replacement Gonzalo Bertranou as the visitors pushed for what would have been a first ever win in Johannesburg.

New Zealand claimed the Rugby Championship trophy earlier on Saturday with a comprehensive 38-7 victory over Australia in Melbourne but the Boks' victory sees them end second, with Argentina in third.

"It was up and down, there were times we felt we were really dominant with ball in hand, but then there were times we lost it," Bok captain Duane Vermeulen said at the post-match presentation.

"It was (poor) discipline, it just did not work for us, but we walk away with the win and we are thankful for that. There is work to be done before we head to the World Cup."

Under coach Michael Cheika, Argentina have beaten England at Twickenham, New Zealand in Christchurch and Australia in Sydney, but fell just short this time.

South Africa, who had made nine changes going into the game, had the better of the set-piece and dominated the breakdown, but were at times unable to get out of their half against relentless Argentine pressure.

"In terms of heart and passion, this team is never in doubt, how we fight for these colours," Argentina