So, South Africa remained unbeaten against England for a week shy of 10 years, a run of 12 matches. It was an impressive record. It is something to cling to. And they will take anything just now.
This was a dispiriting prick of the balloon – and balloon-thick is South Africa’s confidence at the moment. Now they must add the 37 points conceded here to the 57 they shipped last time out a month ago to the All Blacks – at home in Durban. Lob in a host of other indignities over the last couple of years – to Argentina, Japan and Ireland, among others – and you begin to wonder how they managed that 10-year unbeaten run against England.
Related: Ben Youngs runs show as England end 10-year jinx against Springboks
Related: England 37-21 South Africa: player ratings from Twickenham
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