JOHANNESBURG – New Zealand’s first-test victory against South Africa on Saturday handed it a massive advantage in the four-match series, with its hard-fought 33-16 victory at Ellis Park a statement win, coach Dave Rennie said.

The All Blacks outscored South Africa five tries to one and saw off a powerful physical challenge, emerging the slicker of the two teams as they upset the odds.

“Oh, look, it’s massive,” Rennie said of the result in the series dubbed ‘Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry.’