Top-ranked Ireland beats South Africa 13-8

What a sublime start to Sunday.

Go Ireland!

A great contest to watch, as a neutral.

For supporters I can only imagine it was an 80 minute test of nerves.

Good to see a game where no players were sent off.

Now, Ireland has another tough pool match against Scotland, then probably New Zealand in the quarters.

Three tough matches in a row.

Saying that, Ireland is the team to beat.

Well played Ireland!

The difference was South Africa do not have a kicker.

When Malcolm Marks, a hooker, returned to South Africa with an injury, they brought over Pollard, a No. 10 as a replacement. Pollard was carrying an injury but will be back to fitness for the semis....

Handre Pollard is a world class kicker so don't go counting South Africa out just yet.

don't go counting South Africa out just yet.

Any of the top two teams from either pools a or b could take the final (NZ at a stretch, but it’s possible). Would be foolish to write any of them off right now. Pools c and d I don’t think can do it.

I wouldn’t be at all disappointed for any of the top two in pools a or b to take it either.

Good, tight match.

I thought the Boks showed up some weakness in the Irish line out, especially early, but the scrum was fairly even.

But yes, four missed kicks for the boks didn’t help them.

These teams might meet again in the final, if good enough in their QFs.

Sensational test match. The atmosphere in the Stadium was utterly insane. Happy Ireland won. My Saffa pals not so much.

Love it !!!...

LOOOOOOOL !!!!...

That could have gone either way. South Africa missed way too many penalties.