Morne Steyn was back to his best as fiery South Africa rediscovered the art of winning by defeating a second string New Zealand side 18-5 yesterday in the Tri-Nations.

The ace goal kicker went into the match battling to remain first-choice fly-half under pressure from World Cup winner Butch James and put down a marker by kicking five penalties and a drop goal.

Bloodied and battered flank Heinrich Brussow was another star as the Springboks shrugged off three consecutive losses in the southern hemisphere championship to end on an upbeat note.

New Zealand, showing 12 changes from the team that defeated Australia in Auckland two weeks ago, deserved more than a Richard Kahui try for their first-half efforts.

The All Blacks now head for Brisbane and a title decider against the Wallabies with the Springboks finishing bottom.

Wales win

Wales cruised past 2007 World Cup semi-finalists Argentina with a 28-13 victory at the Millennium Stadium in their final warm-up test ahead of the World Cup.

Argentina dominated the opening exchanges but they were hit by a sucker punch by Wales who grabbed two quick-fire tries through Andy Powell and Alun Wyn Jones.

Hook stretched Wales' lead with a succession of second-half penalties before George North crashed over for yet another try.

Argentina grabbed a late consolation through Martin Scelzo which Felipe Contepomi converted.

Other result: Scotland vs Italy 23-12; Ireland vs France 22-26.