The Back Three [8.5]
Set the game alight, with each player bringing their special powers to the mix: Willie (creating chances), Bryan (looking for work), and JPP (finishing).
15. Willie le Roux [7.5]
Rugby365: 8/10
Joined the backline with speed and made more running metres than any other player on the field. His ability to be unpredictable tested the Samoan defence throughout the game.
Sport24: 7/10
Sound outing, after welcome recall. Generally kicked well when required to do so in first half, and showed his slippery qualities on attack when Boks opened up as game progressed. Came within whisker of at least two tries.
OuGrote: 7.5/10
Injected much-needed spark into the Bok attack and created plenty of chances for his team-mates with his elusive running and solid kicking game.
14. JP Pietersen [9]
Rugby365: 9/10
Scored three tries and showed glimpses of his younger self. Definitely one of his best games in a Springbok jersey in years.
Sport24: 8/10
Flirted with yellow card after silly high challenge on Alesana Tuilagi, but otherwise a revelation after lean international spell. Settled Bok nerves with brilliantly-read intercept score, then showed sublime handling and other skills. Predatory qualities of old suddenly flooded back.
OuGrote: 9/10
He always seems to do well at World Cups and today he was back to his very best form, scoring a hat-trick with superb handling and finishing skills on display.
11. Bryan Habana [8]
Rugby365: 8/10
Consistently looked for work all over the park and beat a number of defenders during the game. He also got on the scoreboard with a great try.
Sport24: 7/10
Showed praiseworthy zest and gumption in always trying to exploit the most minor of space. Rewarded for durability with handsome, tearaway final try for Boks in 83rd minute.
OuGrote: 8/10
Exceptional workrate, popping up and contributing strongly all over the field. Even got involving in the maul that lead to Schalk Brits’ try. Scored a well-deserved try of his own to take his total in internationals to 60.