Tri-Nations South Africa 15 Australia 27:Australia beat South Africa 27-15 today to end the world champions' hopes of winning the Tri-nations title.

The victory was Australia's first in South Africa since 2000 while new Springbok coach Peter de Villiers endured his fourth defeat in five Tri-nations matches.

Captain Stirling Mortlock and winger Lote Tuqiri scored second half tries to seal the Australian victory although South Africa closed the gap in the final quarter with two tries by centre Adrian Jacobs.

Australia flyhalf Matt Giteau gave a masterful display with the boot, kicking three conversions and two penalties.

Loosehead prop Benn Robinson scored a 27th-minute try as Australia seized a 10-0 halftime lead which they never relinquished.