The Tigers, without thirteen 1st team regulars, five of them being with England put on an amazing show to turnover the world champions South Africa in front of a record crowd at Welford Road.
South Afica had the better start as the home side stuttered in the first few minutes and they went out to 8-0 lead through a penalty and Jongi Nokwe’s try. But the home side hit back to go 16-8 ahead, Lucas Amorosino scoring a try and Ben Youngs who was a fizzing live wire behind the scrum adding three penalties. Pienaar kicked a penalty right on half time bringing the score to 16-11.
The second half and Youngs continued to kick his penalties for the Tigers taking them out to 22-11. South Africa were not done and in the last quarter they put pressure on the home side and Pienaar kicked two penalties to close the gap to five points. Leicester however showed their resolve and held on for a famous victory and the ideal occasion for the official opening of the Caterpillar Stand. Final score:
Leicester 22-17 South Africa
Tour
South Africa, who named five uncapped players in their XV, have November Tests against France, Italy and Ireland.