Springboks' Eden Park struggles: A history of heartbreaks and draws

The Springboks will be hoping to change a piece of rugby history on Saturday at Eden Park in Auckland when they face New Zealand in the first of two Rugby Championship Tests.

It has been 88 years since the world champions last won at the iconic stadium. The closest they’ve come since was a hard-fought 18-all draw 31 years ago.

Ahead of this weekend’s clash (09.05 pm start), we look back at the last five encounters between the two sides at Eden Park, starting with the most recent.

14 September 2013: All Blacks 29–15 Springboks

A particularly controversial match, where Springbok hooker Bismarck du Plessis was sent off after receiving two yellow cards—one for a tackle on Dan Carter that remains hotly debated to this day.

The Boks trailed at halftime but found momentum early in the second half when Du Plessis scored. However, his sending off by referee Romain Poite proved to be the turning point. With a man down, South Africa couldn't hold back the All Blacks, who capitalised in the closing stages.

10 July 2010: All Blacks 32–12 Springboks

A dominant display by New Zealand, who completely outplayed the Springboks, then coached by Peter de Villiers.

Despite fielding a strong team and holding the world champion title, South Africa couldn’t score a single try in Auckland. The match was a stark reminder of how difficult it is to beat the All Blacks at their fortress.

25 August 2001: All Blacks 26–15 Springboks

South Africa's points came entirely from the boot of Braam van Straaten, who kicked five penalties. However, the All Blacks were clinical and composed, with Andrew Mehrtens keeping the scoreboard ticking and two tries sealing the win.

Both sides conceded numerous penalties, making it a stop-start affair. While competitive, the Springboks lacked the cutting edge to break through the All Black defence.

9 August 1997: All Blacks 55–35 Springboks

A thrilling, high-scoring encounter that featured 12 tries in total, seven for the hosts and five for the visitors.

The All Blacks ran rampant on attack, but the Springboks also played their part with some exciting rugby. However, a red card for Andre Venter proved costly. This chaotic match had everything: big hits, a few scuffles, and some brilliant end-to-end tries.

6 August 1994 : All Blacks 18–18 Springboks

Still the closest the Springboks have come to winning at Eden Park since 1937.

After losing the first two Tests of the series, South Africa fought bravely in the final match. Shane Howarth kicked six penalties for New Zealand, while Gavin Johnson (13 points) and Brendan Venter (one try) led the Boks’ scoring.

Though not the most thrilling game, it was a significant match that helped begin the All Blacks' now long-standing unbeaten run at Eden Park.