Hoerskool Linden falls short in the Noordvaal Cup
In a gripping showdown at the SDC Noordvaal Cup final, Hoerskool Riebeeckrand face off against Hoerskool Linden, the game proved to be intense as both teams put their bodies on the line.
![The players celebrate their win over Hoerskool Linden.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2024/08/IMG_0906_65164-e1724674376719-780x470.jpg)
An electrifying final of the SDC Noordvaal Cup saw two fierce rivals Hoërskool Linden and Hoërskool Riebeeckrand clash in a match filled with intense competition and high stakes.
The game began with both teams eager to seize control, but it was the visitors Riebeeckrand who struck first, scoring a try in the 23rd minute to take an early lead of 7–0.
Linden quickly responded with a penalty kick in the 25th minute, narrowing the gap to 3–7. However, Riebeeckrand maintained their momentum, converting another penalty shortly after to extend their lead to 10–3.
Read more: Hoërskool Linden’s winning streak continues
![The final was nothing short of intense.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2024/08/IMG_0831_61958-e1724674448365.jpg)
As the first half progressed, Linden fought back, earning another penalty that brought the score to 6–10. Yet, Riebeeckrand’s confidence surged as they scored two tries, with conversions successful pushing the score to 24–6 at the end of the first half.
The pressure mounted for Linden as the away team capitalised, leaving them with a significant challenge ahead. As the second half commenced Riebeeckrand scored yet another try, followed by a successful conversion making the score 31–6.
![Players of both teams fight for possession.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2024/08/IMG_0829_66597-e1724674460970.jpg)
Despite the daunting scoreline, Linden showed resilience and determination. They managed to score an unconverted try in the second half through flanker, Keatin Carlse to make it 31–11.
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With nine minutes remaining, Aidan Mans scored another try for Linden, and Francois Steyn successfully converted the kick. At 31–18, the atmosphere in the stadium shifted as Linden found their rhythm, igniting hope among their fans.
However, time was not on their side, and despite their efforts, the final whistle blew with Riebeeckrand securing the victory 31–18.
![Linden (white) put on a good performance.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2024/08/IMG_0851_59148.jpg)
Xander Wray of Riebeeckrand was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance, while the victory marks Riebeeckrand’s third trophy, adding to their previous wins of the Golden Lions Cup and the Puk-reeks Cup.
Riebeeckrand coach Janco Tiedt praised Linden for their tenacity and fighting spirit throughout the match.”It was a tight game; we trained hard for two weeks. Linden is a team that fought hard, and they played very well. You have to give them credit.”
![Hoerskool Riebeeckrand secure their first SDC Noordvaal Cup.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2024/08/IMG_0896_31129-e1724674474695.jpg)
Both teams can take pride in their performances, with the away team celebrating a well-deserved victory in the SDC Noordvaal Cup.
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Related article: A season of exceptional rugby at Hoërskool Linden