South Africa 46
Samoa 6
Coming off the back of a humilating defeat to rugby minnows Japan, Heyneke Meyer was expecting a positive reaction when his side came up against Samoa.
The Springboks showed little mercy as they systematically broke down the islanders and were full value for their bonus point victory.
JP Pietersen took it upon himself to get South Africa's campaign up and running, his hat-trick of tries the highlight in a comprehensive win.
From the outset, South Africa stamped their authority on the game.
Powerful rucking and agressive mauling allowed them to take control of the game, but it wasn't until the fifteenth minute that they were afforded any sort of breathing space.
Pietersen capitalised on a loose pass from Mike Stanley and streaked clear of the Samoan defensive line to run over the first of six tries for the 'Boks.
Handre Pollard was unable to convert, but atoned for his error by slotting over four penalties to keep the scoreboard ticking over for the course of the evening.
Schalk Burger, Schalk Brits and Bryan Habana got themselves on the scoresheet and the win leaves South Africa top of Pool B on seven points, two clear of Scotland whom they face next Saturday at St James' Park.
Scorers
South Africa
Tries: JP Pietersen (3), S Burger, S Brits, B Habana
Conversions: H Pollard, P Lambie
Penalties: H Pollard (4)
Samoa
Penalties: M Stanley (2)
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