Tough Questions Loom for All Blacks After Defeat to South Africa

New Zealand coach Scott Robertson remains optimistic despite the All Blacks' recent 18-12 loss to South Africa, marking their fourth consecutive defeat against the world champions. The defeat poses significant challenges as they face high expectations back home, despite some standout performances in recent weeks

New Zealand coach Scott Robertson was philosophical in defeat but acknowledged there would be tough questions back home after the All Blacks lost 18-12 to South Africa, crushing their Rugby Championship hopes in Cape Town on Saturday.

This marks the fourth consecutive loss to the world champions and the third defeat in four tests during this year's southern hemisphere competition, beginning Robertson's tenure on a challenging note. 'It was a hell of a test match, congratulations to South Africa, they know how to get it done,' Robertson told reporters.

'We created enough opportunities but did not finish them. The best of us is finishing what we create, but there are small margins in test rugby.' Despite leading by 10 points with 12 minutes left in their 31-27 loss last weekend at Ellis Park, and holding an advantage into the second half, New Zealand allowed the Springboks to score two tries while flyhalf Damian McKenzie missed crucial kicks.

'I am pleased with where we are. The last few weeks have been exceptional with some great performances; some players went really deep,' Robertson said. 'Our breakdown tonight was phenomenal. A lot of big games are won on those small margins off the boot.'

'There was so much good, but test matches are about finishing on top and finding a way to do it. We need to learn from that.' Robertson anticipates scrutiny back in New Zealand, given the team's historically high standards.

'Our duty demands that we win those games. We care very deeply about the jersey, and we have to win,' he said. 'We will be frank and honest about it. That is the way to approach it.'

Captain Scott Barrett believes their two fixtures in South Africa presented missed opportunities. 'We are on the wrong side of it for a second time and that is disappointing,' he said. 'We have to regroup; there will be a lot of discomfort heading into the bye week. We have to be better.'

New Zealand has two Rugby Championship fixtures remaining against Australia but cannot catch South Africa at the top of the table after falling 11 points behind their great rivals.

(With inputs from agencies.)