'Disgusting', 'outrageous' pitch invader ruins try-scoring chance for Wales against South Africa

A pitch invader ruined a golden try-scoring opportunity for Wales that marred a thrilling encounter in Cardiff on Sunday morning (NZ time). 

The controversial and frustrating moment came in the 63rd minute with the scores locked at 15-15. 

Wales worked an attacking move down the left-hand side inside the Springboks 22. The home side's New Zealand-born fullback Johnny McNicholl did well to draw-and-pass to Liam Williams but the replacement back for Wales, who had space in front of him, had his path blocked by a pitch invader who was tackled to the ground by security between the two Welsh players.  

This promoted outcry from the home fans as boos rung around the stadium while some fans threw beer at the individual as he was escorted away from the field, with serious questions now set to be raised about security.

It's the second time in two weeks the Principality Stadium has seen a pitch invader get onto the field after 'Jarvo' lined up with the All Blacks for the New Zealand national anthem. 

Wales legends were furious at the incident calling it "outrageous" and "disgusting".

"The fan got what he deserved, the whole stadium booed. I think it was a disgusting thing for a fan to do," former Wales and British and Irish Lions skipper Sam Warburton says.

Former Wales centre Jamie Roberts, who was commentating for Amazon Prime said, "You cannot have fans coming onto the field of play during play.

"Whether Liam goes on to score that, I'm not quite sure, the pass is behind him anyway but that is just outrageous," Roberts said.

Springboks legend Bryan Habana dubbed it "idiotic".

'Disgusting', 'outrageous' pitch invader ruins try-scoring chance for Wales against South Africa
Photo credit: Image - Getty Images

Wales coach Wayne Pivac was frustrated and disappointed with the situation. 

"You don't want to see that in the game," he said. "Very disappointing that happened but nothing the officials could do about that."

The Springboks went on to claim a 23-18 victory in Cardiff, their first in the Walsh capital in eight years thanks to a late try to replacement hooker Malcolm Marx.