start, although it developed into a cagey and tense affair.

Pollard's three penalties gave South Africa a 9-3 lead but Wales hit back thanks to a moment of brilliance from Biggar.

The flyhalf, making the most of fullback Willie Le Roux's hesitancy, gathered his own up-and-under in the Springbok 22 and, with Davies on his shoulder, offloaded for his halfback partner to crash over after 17 minutes.

Pollard's fourth penalty from a tight angle put South Africa ahead again as the game became scrappy a Biggar drop goal right on halftime put the Welsh 13-12 up.

The change of ends and a swirling wind appeared to initially affect Pollard and he was twice wayward with penalty attempts before nailing a drop goal from in front of the posts after Biggar had stretchedthe lead to four.

Wales captain Sam Warburton came up with a crucial turnover five metres from his line as the Springboks upped their intensity, piling into the rucks time and time again, only to be repelled.

With both sides tiring and somewhat ragged, the decisive moment came moments after an angry Biggar trudged off remonstrating with his own medical staff.

Wales appeared to lose concentration in the ensuing scrum in their own 22 and an alert Du Preez pounced to secure the semi-final place.

"At the end of the day South Africa hung in there, got one chance and they took it and that was the result," said Wales coach Warren Gatland. (editing by Nick Mulvenney)