Centers Jones and captain Sione Tuipulotu, fullback Tom Jordan and Russell conjured brilliant attacks that tore apart the South Africans and brought Murrayfield to its feet. But they couldn’t complete the last pass.

Scotland put in one of their best performances in years to match world champions South Africa for 70 minutes, said coach Gregor Townsend, who hailed his side’s fight and determination while he also rued some decisions against his side at Murrayfield.

Whereas Scotland beat Fiji last week in their first Autumn test, South Africa's last outing in the international arena was a dominant 48-7 win over Argentina in the Rugby Championship on 28 September. "They haven't had that 80 minutes," Care added. "They are the best team in the world, but sometimes you need to get that game into your legs."

It was an error strewn performance from both teams, with Scotland trailing by four points going into the final 20, before the Boks pulled away at the end.