Following their 60-point win against the Vodacom Blue Bulls XV on Sunday March 12, the Airlink Pumas were determined to hold their own in their first home game this season at Mbombela Stadium.
The home team opened their account against the Fidelity ADT Lions on Friday, March 17, through Diego Appollis who planted the ball neatly behind the goal line.
A try by Devon Williams helped tick the scoreboard over for the Pumas. It was clear that Brandon Thompson’s eye was in as he converted both of the tries with ease. A penalty kick to the men in pink just before half time put them 17-3 up at the break.
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The Lions clawed their way back into the game as soon as the second half commenced when Boldwin Hansen went over the try line 10 minutes into the half.
However, the visiting side were not given much breathing room as the flanker, André Fouché, fought his way to the try line.
Corné Fourie also added points for the Pumas, breaking off an attacking maul.
The Lions regained the momentum they started the half with, scoring two tries through flyhalf Vaughen Isaacs, and winger Boldwin Hansen, tieing up the scoreboard at 27 a piece.
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In the end, it was the Pumas who showed dedication in defence, successfully fending off a counter-attack by the Lions.
Diego Appollis put the last nail into the coffin with his second try of the match.The Pumas managed to maintain their winning streak, triumphing 34-27 over the Fidelity ADT Lions.
With the win, the Pumas claimed their fifth straight victory against the Lions in the Currie Cup and are off to a promising start to their title defence.
In round three next Friday (March 24), the Pumas host the Windhoek Draught Griquas in a rematch of last year’s final.
The Pumas are currently top the Currie Cup log, with the team from Western Province, that have also enjoyed back-to-back victories, in second place.
