King loyalties split as ABs beat Boks

SPLIT LOYALTIES: The King family: Kacey 3, Neil, Marilinda and Jake, 4-and-a-half. PHOTO/ ANDREW WARNER

The All Blacks' win over the Springboks was both a happy and sad occasion for South African ex-pat Marilinda King.

Mrs King, her husband Neil and a group of their friends yesterday brewed some strong coffee and donned their supporters gear ready for the 4am Rugby World Cup semifinal between the Springboks and the All Blacks.

The close score of 20 to 18 did not surprise Mrs King, who had predicted the old rivals would fight a tight game.

"The best team won. I'm pretty sad that South Africa is out but you know what, at least it was a good game. I knew the scores were going to be low and close.

"I'm a little bit heartbroken over South Africa, it would have been nice for them to take it home. But bring it home All Blacks."

Mr King, a British ex-pat, was rooting for the All Blacks while Mrs King had a foot in each camp - donning a South Africa shirt and painting a Silver Fern on her face.

After the game, Mrs King said she was feeling "a little bit fragile" and was disappointed in the refereeing of the game.

She thought Sonny Bill Williams' post match chivalry was an impressive gesture. Williams was caught on camera consoling the devastated young Springbok Jesse Kriel after the All Blacks won, giving him a hug and helping him to his feet.

The Kings were hoping Argentina would win this morning's game, but thought Australia might have the edge.

"Let's not let Australia win."

Anyone who placed a bet on Jerome Kaino to score the first try will be pleased with the outcome.

TAB paid out $15 for every dollar put down for Kaino as first try scorer.

But placing money on the All Blacks to win was not as lucrative, paying out $1.12. The All Blacks winning by a 12 or under margin paid out $2.55 and those who guessed correctly that the Springboks would lead at half-time but lose got $5.75.