New Zealand’s try to cut South Africa’s lead in the Rugby World Cup final to one point was shrouded in controversy after replays appeared to suggest the ball had been passed forward. The All Blacks were up against it early in the first half when Sam Cane was sent off for a head-on-head tackle.

South Africa took full advantage of the extra man to open up a 12-6 lead with New Zealand struggling to break through their opponent’s defence. But a yellow card to Siya Kolisi momentarily levelled the playing field with the All Blacks sensing an opportunity to close the score.

Aaron Smith thought he had just done that after some sensational play from Richie Mo’unga on the left to dance past two men, only for the try to be ruled out after a TMO review. However, New Zealand were back over South Africa’s try line three minutes later as Beauden Barrett dove over the line.

New Zealand once again had men over on the left with the ball sprayed to Mark Telea. He managed to get the ball off to Barrett who made the most of the space to get over the line.

Unlike New Zealand’s previous try attempt, the review was swift and went in their favour. However, there was some doubt from the crowd inside the stadium when replays of the try were played on the big screen.

At one particular angle it appeared as though Telea had passed the ball forward to Barrett.

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But another angle indicated that Telea had passed backwards and it was the momentum of the move that carried it forward.

The try gave New Zealand their first chance of taking the lead in the final.

Richie Mo’unga stepped up to take the conversion attempt, but he missed it right of the posts.

A yellow card for Cheslin Kolbe in the 72nd minute then meant the teams were level for the final 10 minutes of the match.

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