THE South African Rugby Legends kicked off their first match of the year with a win against the Gloucester Rugby Heroes at Kingsholm Stadium in Gloucester last week.
Fielding a star-studded team of former Springboks and first class rugby players, the South Africans put on a solid defence throughout the game, despite the wet and very muddy conditions, to win 12-10.
Led by former Springboks and Sharks skipper, John Smit, the Legends travelled to the home of the Cherry and White Hoops to help contribute to the various events celebrating the 125th anniversary of Kingsholm Stadium, the club’s home ground. Along with the game, a gala dinner was also held to help raise funds for various rugby charities.
The Legends squad included ex-Sprinboks, Breyton Paulse, Tonderai Chavhanga, Butch James, Thinus Delport and Lawrence Sephaka.
Former Western Province and Saracen’s flanker, Justin Melck, crashed over for the SA Legends first try, while Henno Mentz scored the second try of the game for the Boks.
“It’s always wonderful to wear a jersey that represents your country, and to win in it, even sweeter”, said SARLA CEO Stefan Terblanche, who played in the match as well.
“Matches like this, not only rekindle old rivalries and help promote the amazing spirit of the game, but prove that many of our former players still have petrol in the tank and the skill and talent to still play.” he said. “It was a big ask to have the guys match ready so soon after the festive season break, but they all took it on as a challenge. Yes, we have rolling subs and perhaps don’t play a full match, but we give it our all, especially when we are flying the flag for South Africa”, he said.
