(CNN) -- Defending champions South Africa have begun this year's tournament with a victory, but they were far from convincing as they scraped a narrow 17-16 Pool D win over Wales in Wellington. Frans Steyn and Francois Hougaard both scored tries for the Springboks, while Morne Steyn kicked two conversions and a penalty in a tight affair Toby Faletau went over for Wales' sole try, with James Hook contributing 11 points with his kicking. Rugby World Cup special section The result was tough on a gallant Wales side, who led 16-10 with 15 minutes to play before Hougaard's try between the posts gave South Africa the upper hand.
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South Africa begin their Rugby World Cup defense with a 17-16 win over Wales
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The Sprinboks scrape Pool D victory despite fielding 11 of their 2007 winning side
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There are also opening victories for both Australia and Ireland in Pool C
@placeholder started with 11 of the 15 players who won them the trophy four years ago, but they will need to improve on this display if they are to retain their title.