As it happened: Ireland defeat South Africa in World Cup

It’s half-time in Paris as Ireland lead South Africa 7-3 in the Rugby World Cup.

Ireland struggled early on, with issues at the line out and the world champions going ahead through a penalty, in what has been a hugely physical battle.

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While Ireland have had plenty of the ball, South Africa’s defence was incredibly solid as Ireland struggled to find a way through.

However, after Ireland weathered the storm, Mack Hansen scored the only try of the game so far in the 33rd minute, with Johnny Sexton scoring the conversion to give Ireland the lead at the interval.

Garry Ringrose has come back on to the pitch after going off for a HIA.

South Africa re-took the lead in the second half after a couple of strong scrums, with a try from winger Cheslin Kolbe gave South Africa an 8-7 lead.

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The lead didn’t last long as Ireland turned their fortunes around in the scrum and Sexton scored a penalty to give Ireland the lead.

South Africa’s issues at the kicking tee continued, as Manie Libbok and Faf De Klerk missed penalties to give them the lead, as they couldn’t take advantage of their dominance at the scrum.

After a tense period where South Africa were meters away from Ireland’s try-line, Ireland held their own and kept the world champions out.

They were rewarded for their patience, as Jack Crowley extended the lead to 13-8 with just five minutes to go.

In a moment where the whole country held their breath, South Africa powered to the lone with their powerful maul, but Ireland held them out for a statement win to qualify for the quarter-finals.

Ireland will have a two-week break beore they play Scotland in their final group game, with South Africa facing Tonga.

Sourse: breakingnews.ie