South Africa vs Japan player ratings: Brave Blossoms cause biggest upset in World Cup history with last-gasp winner
A look at the individual performances of a South African side that slumped to a humiliating defeat at the Community Stadium
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Your support makes all the difference.South Africa suffer a shock 34-32 defeat after super sub Karne Hesketh scores 83rd minute winner
Japan caused the biggest upset in Rugby World Cup history by scoring a last-gasp try to beat South Africa 34-32 in Brighton.
The Brave Blossoms secured their first victory in the tournament since 1991 when substitute Karne Hesketh dived over in the corner in the 83rd minute.
The two-time world champions were clinging on to a slender three-point lead but could not hold out against a late Japanese onslaught, which saw them turn down two kickable penalties and push for the win.
Francious Louw scored the first try of the afternoon when he dotted down from the back of a rampant rolling maul before Japan rumbled over with one of their own in the 29th minute.
South Africa replied with another scoring maul as Bismark du Plessis touched down shortly before half time.
Nick de Jager and Adriaan Strauss crashed over in the second half as Japan struggled to cope with the carries of the hulking Springbok pack but Ayumu Goromaru slotted four penalties after half time and crossed over for a try to keep Japan in the match.
And with 83 minutes on the clock, Japan's patience and perseverance paid off as Hesketh dived over in the corner to give his side a historic victory.
So how did the players perform? Click on the gallery below to find out.
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