Marais Viljoen show heart in defeat
They say that the character of a team is not visible when things are going well but rather when they have to react to a challenge.
HOËRSKOOL Marais Viljoen had a tough encounter to open up their league campaign for 2016 in front of their home fans on Saturday, March 5.
It proved to be a very difficult opening game against Hoërskool EG Jansen from Boksburg. EG Jansen were in top form but the home team battled bravely and never gave up. The visitors were supreme in all departments and especially their backline was both speedy and skilful forcing Marais Viljoen to mostly be on the back foot. Their scrumhalf and flyhalf players do however need special mention. They serviced the backline speedily and broke the line at will themselves.
The forward pack of the home team struggled to get their hands on the ball for extended periods of time. It must be said that true to their character they never stopped tackling and were able to win the odd turnover. They used the ball that they did have well and looked dangerous when they were able to take it through a few phases. This was limited to counter-attacks though.
The visitors made the best possible start when they scored the opening points of the game with a well worked-out backline move. They scored throughout the game at regular intervals and Marais Viljoen were only rewarded with a consolation try shortly before half-time through left wing Hannes Pretorius and a conversion from Kwagga Marais. EG Jansen were good at the kick offs and replied immediately to lead 38-7 at the break.
Besides showing true commitment the home side also showed good discipline with regards to foul play and to their credit never resorted to playing negatively and killing the ball. They were rewarded towards the end of the game and with the final move of the game when Hannes Pretorius and Brandon Marchbank ran in a try apiece. The final score was 66-17.
They say that the character of a team is not visible when things are going well but rather when they have to react to a challenge. Marais Viljoen showed that despite a comprehensive loss, coach Ryno Luus can be justifiably proud of the heart and guts his team displayed.
They will be back, of that you can be sure.
Lees ook:
Marais Viljoen edge out Potch Volkies
Blink toekoms wag vir top student
