Vernon Philander has admitted that South Africa's bowlers have felt the benefit of the pitch at Perth.

The Proteas bowled out Australia for 163 before taking control of the third Test on the second day.

Philander said: "The wicket has a bit more bounce and the guys have to play a bit more off the back foot, which is good for us because it's similar to the wickets we have back home.

"We knew we had to get 20 wickets to win this game, we didn't bat so well in the first innings which left us a few runs short."

Philander was also eager to praise bowling partner Dale Steyn, who took 4-40 on Saturday.

"He's the number one bowler in the world for a reason. When you bowl on the other side from him it is special and just to bowl the new ball with him is special. The way he can deliver on big moments is unbelievable," he added.

Playing in his final Test, Ricky Ponting was dismissed for four by Philander.