Shane Williams conjured a stunning solo try in the second Test at Loftus Versfeld, but it was not enough to prevent Wales slumping to a series defeat as they lost 37-21 to South Africa.

Williams showed all his predatory instincts to score from a seemingly impossible position, beating five Springboks on a weaving run to the corner.

Even the home fans had no choice but stand and applaud his 43rd international try, a magical moment that instilled Wales with the belief they could topple the world champions.

Just as important was an opportunist 20th-minute score from scrum-half Gareth Cooper, who showed his own finishing skills to dart over at a vital stage.

Early tries from Jean de Villiers and Ricky Januarie brought back memories of South Africa's 43-17 romp in the opening Test, but Cooper's quick thinking halted the onslaught.

When the hosts slipped into top gear, however, Wales could not compete with de Villiers burrowing over for the decisive score, while Butch James produced another kicking masterclass.

The experiment of playing James Hook at full-back and Jamie Roberts at inside centre yielded little useful information as neither player had a chance to shine.

Wales captain Ryan Jones told Sky Sports 1: "It's been a tough week.

"I think we've done ourselves justice. We've come out here and I think we've gone a long way to turning it around in a week.

"It's been two fantastic Tests for us.

"We've had a great two weeks here in South Africa."

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