Of the batsmen, only Hansie Cronje can truly hold his head up high with a century and a fifty to his name, but Daryll Cullinan (both innings), Jonty Rhodes (first innings), Jacques Kallis (first innings), Shaun Pollock and Mark Boucher all managed scores around or over 30 and were not able to capitalise and secure a real position of strength.
In the first innings 290 for five only resulted in 374 but to be fair to South Africa's low order, 85 for the last five wickets is still reasonable by all other standards except South Africa's. In the second innings, however, 189 for six resulted in only 208, and that perhaps is the one statistic which will reflect on this defeat.
Too often here, South Africa left the door ajar by losing wickets at regular intervals to keep England in the match. Usually, the resolve of the lower order is watertight, whereas this was one of the few times it was found wanting. You can be sure it will not happen again.
England earned their victory but full marks go to Allan Donald, who never wavered in his commitment to team or captain. He will bowl worse in time with far better results and must feel cricket is a cruel game.
The volume of cricket played by all sides is of concern but South Africa have been on a roundabout more than most since their re-emergence. As with all new, interesting and entertaining guests, they have obligations to be fulfilled in many parts of the world.
Smart future planning will be needed to ensure that thoroughbreds like Donald and Pollock are not spent before their time. Donald was superb but Pollock, coming back from injury, did not look himself and bowled, for him, below par.
His rhythm eluded him most of the match and too often four good balls created the pressure but these were spoilt by the odd one straying down the leg side for easier pickings.
There were patches but not enough to ensure the pressure was sustained. Steve Elworthy had a satisfactory debut and was wholehearted in his efforts but the effect of losing Lance Klusener is perhaps more damaging than at first thought. Klusener coming in at 290 for five in the first innings would have put fear into the opposition.
As it is, the series is now wide open and England will be riding high with new-found confidence, while South Africa are down but certainly not out. Headingley will be a fascinating contest.