But they were the only ones who looked satisfied with the result of the Rugby World Cup final.
The Bog was packed to the gills yesterday morning as a swarm of mostly All Blacks supporters gathered to watch the final against the Springboks.
For many patrons, there was consternation when All Blacks captain Sam Cane was red-carded, and jubilation when Beauden Barrett scored the match’s only try.
Finally, there was deflation when referee Wayne Barnes blew his whistle and consigned the All Blacks to a 12-11 defeat.
But for South Africans Jordan Moores and Cam Brewitt, the result was a relief.
"I think the win means more than many Kiwis can comprehend," Mr Moores said.
"Rugby is a sport that helps bridge the divide in South Africa, it stitches together the social fabric."
Mr Moores, 28, moved from South Africa to New Zealand with his family when he was 2 years old.
"My mum and dad are pretty South African.
"New Zealand and South Africa share a lot of values, but I also share a lot of commonalities with other South Africans.
"You’re always proud of where you come from."
Mr Moores, who is studying for a master’s degree in sustainable business, said the win was "bittersweet".
"It was a great result, but you felt a bit lonely afterwards in that pub."
Mr Brewitt, who moved from South Africa to New Zealand at a young age, said he was proud to be "one of the lone green jerseys in a sea of black".
"I’m looking forward to having bragging rights over my mates in the flat."
Meanwhile, general manager Greg Wilson was pleased with both the turnout and the good behaviour of the patrons.
"In terms of business, it was up there with the quarterfinal against Ireland — we had a line outside [on] the street at 7am of people waiting to come in.
"As you get closer and closer to the final, you see that anticipation build up."
His message to disconsolate All Blacks supporters was: "stuff happens — we will win the next one".
