Sensational seconds take Sentraal by storm

VRYHEID Rugby Club played host to Sentraal’s second team on Saturday in an enthralling semi final match that saw Vryheid’s seconds ripping the visiting side to shreds.

With the first team match cancelled, all eyes were on the second team for a win, and they did not disappoint, dominating in both the first and second halves of the breathtaking clash between the locals and the visitors from Dundee, who struggled to match the pace and conviction of Vryheid’s seconds.

Although a yellow card in the first half put the Vryheid side under pressure, they bounced back in the second half, racking up the points to cement their place in the finals, thrashing Sentraal’s second team, 66 – 7.

“Star players in this match were Johannes Kruger, Jaco Davel, Marnu Muller, Matthew Stride and Zakes Dlamini,” according to second team coach, Edwill Meiring.

Andrè Laatz took Man of the Match for the forwards and Pienaar Breytenbach was chosen as Man of the Match for the backline, both players receiving vouchers from Spur for their efforts.

The second team’s victory has secured them a spot in the finals, alongside the first team who will also advance to the finals after a cancellation from Volksrust last Saturday for the semi final.

First team captain, Mornè Ellis, has complete faith in his squad’s ability and uncompromising determination to snatch victory from Piet Retief in the finals on Saturday, following rigorous training and dedication from the team.

“We’re ready for them,” says Ellis confidently.

The Fidelity NNRU finals will take place next Saturday at Vryheid Rugby Club, where all three divisions will be played.

The third division will kick off at 1:30pm, with Ladysmith United facing Newcastle 3, followed by the second division, which will see Piet Retief 2 taking on Vryheid 2 at 3pm. In the main event at 5pm, Vryheid goes head to head with long time rivals and formidable opponents, Piet Retief, in what promises to be a colossal clash between two worthy first class teams in club rugby.

“I’m very proud of the players,” states Head Coach, Rich Verster. “They’ve come a long way and it’s a great accomplishment to have both the first and second teams in the final. Well done to all the teams who have made it this far. Also, a big thank you goes out to Vusi Ndaba and Spur for their generous support throughout the season.”

Can Vryheid’s first team maintain their winning streak through the finals, or will Piet Retief put an end to the maroon reign of triumph?