South African captain Siya Kolisi was gushing in his praise of the Irish rugby team and believes the Irish supporters have an 'amazing' team that they should be proud of.
Kolisi led the reigning World Champion Boks into the Aviva yesterday to take on the top-ranked side in the world. In an attritional, hugely physical contest, Ireland edged it by 19 points to 16 thanks to second half tries from Josh Van Der Flier and Mack Hansen.
The 2019 World Cup Winners piled on the pressure in the closing stages and although they did get a late try through Franco Mostert, Ireland held on for the important win.
READ MORE: Ireland rugby fans not impressed as music blares during breaks in play at the Aviva
It was a war-zone on the pitch with tempers threatening to flare and some questionable challenges flying in, such as the Cheslin Kolbe clearout on Hansen. Off the pitch however, the Boks were beyond gracious in defeat, with captain Kolisi delivering a classy message to the Irish team and supporters.
"We always knew that it would be tough, and that we'd get minimal opportunities. When we did create opportunities, we didn't take them and when you play against a world-class team like this, one or two sniffs and they score two tries.
"But congratulations to them, they did well. They stopped our maul, they stopped our scrumming and they came out firing today, as we thought they would.
"Ireland are an amazing team," he added. "The Irish people should really be proud of their team, and keep on supporting and celebrating them.
Next up for Ireland is Fiji before the Autumn series comes to an end with the arrival of Australia in a fortnight's time.
As for when these two sides meet again, the pair are set to face-off in the pool stage at next year's World Cup in France.
READ NEXT:
Ireland player ratings as van der Flier shines against world champions
Ireland rugby fans not impressed as music blares during breaks in play at the Aviva
Rhys McClenaghan makes history with gold at World Gymnastics Championships
Erling Haaland grabs late winner off bench to rescue win for 10-man Man City vs Fulham
Tuesday continues Aidan O'Brien's red-hot form at Breeders’ Cup
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
