Brave Crusaders lose to unbeaten Collegians

IF anyone was looking for an advert epitomising the spirit and heart of club rugby, they need not have looked any further than Friday night’s clash between the Nashua Crusaders and the SA Home Loans Durban Collegians.

The game ended in favour of Collegians, 12-8, who remain unbeaten at the top of the Fidelity Moor Cup log. However, it was the local lads who made the away crowd sit tensely on the edge of their seats. The match was a see-saw battle in the opening half, with both teams missing their first shots at goal. The deadlock was finally broken in the 35th minute as Collegians’ flyhalf, Duncan Campbell, slotted over an easy penalty.

The reply from the ‘Saders was immediate, with Merlynn Pieterse levelling matters.

The Sharks Academy player had a chance to further increase the lead but missed his second shot at goal with the first half ending 3-3.

The second half again saw both teams searching for the ascendancy with another penalty from Campbell which put the home side ahead.

Another missed penalty from the Crusaders minutes later, didn’t prove too costly, as livewire hooker, Shandon Carter, crashed over for the all-important go ahead try.

Two more penalties from Campbell, however, were enough for the Collegians to maintain their unbeaten record.
The assistant coach of the ‘Saders said his boys left their hearts out on the field.

“We showed our worth and mettle throughout the 80 minutes. We were able to field our strongest side so far in the campaign. I was very proud of the boys. We have another tough game next week in the form of the Durban North derby. I hope to see many people come out and support us on the day,” Farnham said.