Crusaders slump to shock loss against Warriors in rugby cup

THE South Coast Warriors pulled off the shock of this year’s Fidelity Security Moor Cup, beating the PhotoNote Crusaders 27-30 in Durban North on Friday night. For the ‘Saders it was their second back-to-back defeat after last week’s loss to Amazimtoti. Several first team players were rested for the game ahead of their crucial clash against the SA Home Loans Durban Collegians.

The result also has far-reaching consequences for the Durban North team with just two games before the second phase of the competition begins with the league splitting into two, with the top five playing each other and the bottom five battling it out. The Crusaders will be kicking themselves after holding a six-point lead at the end of the first half.

The first half began with both teams trying to assert their dominance on the game. Steve Strydom’s first try of the season was quickly cancelled by a try from the Warriors. A second converted try from Jeandré Small was met with a swift riposte from the south coast-based team, with a penalty making it 14-8 at half-time.

The second half came alive with the introduction of speedster, Selwin White, who deservedly put his team further ahead. Two tries in the last two minutes from the visitors turned the tide.

Not even a try at the final whistle from Crusaders winger, Chess McCarthy, could take the gloss away off the south coast team’s effort.

Coach of the ‘Saders, Shaun van Rensburg, said he could find no positives in the defeat.

“They came to play, we didn’t. There are absolutely no positives to take away from this game. We had a plan, we didn’t stick to it and it cost us. My players thought they had the game won mid-week and credit must go to the South Coast Warriors. We next play Collegians, who are top of the table, which is a massive game for us, we have to win,” he said.