South Africa edge spirited Ireland

Ireland allowed a nine-point advantage to slip against South Africa thanks to a second-half fightback from the Springboks this afternoon.

Declan Kidney's side dominated territory early on and took advantage of ill discipline from the visitors to build a healthy half-time lead.

Jonathan Sexton proved prolific with the boot, scoring four penalties to send Ireland into the break 12-3 ahead.

South Africa responded in the second half and scored a quick try after JP Pietersen was released from the sinbin for a high tackle.

Ulster fly-half Ruan Pienaar did the damage, capitalising quickly from a loose ruck to dive over for the score.

Pat Lambie made no mistake with the conversion and added a penalty 10 minutes later, forcing the Irish to chase the game.

Ireland made a host of changes in the closing stages but were unable to mount a comeback against a powerful South African pack.