A double-try performance from hooker Malcolm Marx proved decisive as South Africa overcame a resilient Argentina to claim their second successive Rugby Championship title. The Springboks’ victory at Twickenham was built on forward dominance, with Marx providing the crucial finishing touches.
The match was a tense and physical affair, but Marx’s power at close quarters was a constant threat. Both of his tries came in the second half from powerful driving mauls, a tactic that the Pumas had no answer for and which ultimately broke their resistance.
While Marx was the headline act, the entire Springbok pack deserves credit for a dominant performance. Their scrum was a destructive force that provided the platform for the entire victory, winning penalties and creating the field position from which Marx could strike.
Argentina fought bravely, taking an early lead and scoring three tries of their own. However, they were unable to cope with the relentless pressure applied by the South African forwards, and their challenge faded in the final quarter.
The victory confirms South Africa’s status as the southern hemisphere’s top team and marks a historic first-ever back-to-back title win for the nation. With players like Marx in such destructive form, their reign at the top of world rugby looks set to continue.