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New Zealand star Sam Cane has shown his class by congratulating South Africa on their triumph in an eventful Rugby World Cup final that saw the All Blacks captain sent off in the first half. Cane became the first men’s player in Rugby World Cup history to be shown a red card in the tournament’s final.<\/p>\n
Cane had originally been shown a yellow for a high tackle on South Africa’s Jesse Kriel, but it was changed to a red on review. He had his head in his hands when the card was upgraded and shook his head in disbelief.<\/p>\n
The decision ultimately changed the game as South Africa went on to take full advantage of the extra man. His New Zealand team-mates – down to 14 men – put in a resilient second half display to pull back within one point.<\/p>\n
The All Blacks also had a conversion and penalty attempt missed to take the lead late in the match. But South Africa managed to hold on for a record fourth Rugby World Cup triumph.<\/p>\n
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Cane was left devastated after the final, but he showed his class by congratulating the Springboks for being a “fantastic team”. He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I am extremely gutted and disappointed. First of all the guys had to play with 14 men for the last 50-odd minutes.<\/p>\n
“I thought the courage they showed out here tonight was incredible, the whole team are absolute warriors. It’s tough, I would like to say well done to South Africa. Back-to-back winners, they have been a fantastic team.<\/p>\n
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