New Zealand may have come away with the victory against South Africa, but it was far from a perfect performance from the All Blacks.
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Several players endured difficult evenings against the physical Springboks, with the set-piece in particular causing Scott Robertson’s side problems.
With the second Test looming, changes could now be considered as New Zealand look to take a 2-0 lead in the four-match series.
Here are the All Blacks who struggled most – and the players who could replace them.
Josh Moorby
Moorby scored a lovely try following Tupou Vaa’i’s superb offload, but it was otherwise a difficult outing for the wing.
He has performed well under the high ball in his previous Tests, but facing the Springboks presented a very different challenge and he was exposed in that area.
Moorby was also overpowered by Andre Esterhuizen in a one-on-one tackle for South Africa’s first try and had missed a team-high three tackles by half-time.
There were positives. He took Vaa’i’s offload beautifully in his stride before powering over for the All Blacks’ second try, reward for his constant efforts around the field.
However, he was eventually replaced late in the second half.
Replacement: Leroy Carter
Carter would offer the All Blacks another explosive option out wide and could be given his opportunity if Robertson decides to freshen up his back three for the second Test.
Josh Lord
Lord was part of an All Blacks pack that found itself under serious pressure before his afternoon was cut short by a clash of heads with Ethan de Groot.
The lock went early at a Springboks lineout maul, which ultimately resulted in Esterhuizen crossing for South Africa’s opening try.
There were some good moments, including an excellent spot tackle on Ox Nche which forced the prop to knock on.
However, Lord later infringed at lineout time and departed before half-time having made six carries.
With several locks pushing hard for opportunities, his starting position could now come under threat.
Replacement: Simon Parker
Parekr was initially a late inclusion following Anton Segner’s swollen ankle but was thrown into the contest during the first half.
He produced a strong all-round performance, getting through plenty of the dirty work around the breakdown and making his presence felt physically.
His performance could be enough to earn him a starting opportunity in the second Test.
