AFTER a pre-game meal at Jukes Pizza, the 2nd placed Westville Old Boys’ (WOB) hosted the 5th place Ballito Dolphins in a lead up match to the Highway Derby on 13 May.
In the first quarter, the 2nd team performed some of the greatest running rugby but were slowed down by the hardy Ballito side.
The local team lost their instrumental 8th man, JJ Van De Burgh, as he broke his jaw in a tackle.
A few more injuries to either side didn’t allow the game to flow as easily as the opening minutes promised.
Credit was given to the Ballito side who crossed the try line, inflicting the first try to be coincided by WOB in five games. Hooker, Mikey Ellion, picked up the forwards award and newcomer, Tylan Cohan, received the backs man of the match.
As the 1st XV’s took the field, the crowd continued to swell and the anticipation mounted.
Phase after phase, the home side strung together flawless plays that had the defence at 6s and 7s.
The speed of the game was nearly unbelievable and the impact in contact was immense. This, coupled with a strong defensive display, helped the home side to a 43 – 0 whitewash. Gerard Cleland picked up the backline player of the match while Oliver Cash picked up the forwards award.
The coaches commented that the coming week would be filled with hard work as they would focus on ironing out a few minor issues.
On Thursday evening, the WOB 3rd side continued their winning start to the season defeating Ogwini Bafana 45-5. Wandz Gqamane and Shauny Schuit being awarded the forward and back of the match respectively.
The highway derby will take place against the Hillcrest Villagers’ Rugby Club on Saturday, 13 May at WOB. The games will kick off at 2pm and 3.30pm respectively. The WOB 3rds will host the Crusaders on the Friday night at 7pm.
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