South Africa 19 Ireland 13: Joe Schmidt’s men left heartbroken as resurgent Springboks deny them famous series win
Irish had won the first Test and narrowly lost the second but could not find a way past South Africa's stubborn defence
IRELAND were left heartbroken as their bid for a first series win in South Africa ended in defeat.
The Springboks, who came close to losing the series in the second Test before their late comeback, clinched a 19-13 victory thanks to points from JP Pietersen and Elton Jantjies.
A fiery start to the game saw Willie Le Roux handed a yellow card for tackling Tiernan O’Halloran in the air, and he was fortunate not to see red.
Luke Marshall then handed Ireland the lead before Pietersen put his side ahead before half-time.
Penalties from Jantjies then gave the Springboks some breathing space, and Ireland were left frustrated as they valiantly tried to break down their opponent’s defence.
It marked a sad end to Ireland’s campaign in South Africa, with a series win nearly within their grasp in the second Test.
The Irish had won the first Test in Cape Town before the Springboks narrowly clinched victory in the second, and Joe Schmidt’s side were hopeful of finishing the job in Port Elizabeth.
But they now join Wales in failing to get their better of their hosts, although England fans will be happy after a series whitewash in Australia.