The Newcastle Boschpick Highlanders celebrated two victories this past Saturday with their first and second teams notching up wins over Middelburg Rugby Club.
Highlanders 2nd defeated Middelburg 2nd 36-12 in a thrilling ‘Covid Cup’ curtain raiser match. Coach, Andrè ‘Swanie’ Swanepoel, said the victory was the result of a collaborative effort by the forwards and backs, as well as the fitness of the team.
Siyabonga Sikhonde (5), Wikus Coetser (12), and Zander Coetser (13) were all outstanding team players while DJ Siwela (8) and Bradley Swartbooi (10) had a significant impact on the game.
In the main game, the home team took on Middelburg1st.
Highlanders led 6-5 at halftime, but had to contend with a determined Middelburg side that would not go down without a fight, staying on their tails until the end, with Highlanders running out 30-19 winners after scoring two tries in the final 10 minutes.
Despite spending the previous seven years in Abu Dhabi and away from rugby, Errit Visser (8) played an outstanding match, leading from the front.
Henk Booysen (4) had his best game for the club since joining, and loose forwards, Siya (7) and Kheswa (6), both had Middelburg scrambling every time they had the ball.
Walla Fourie (5) was outstanding in the lineouts, with special mention going to Daniël Halforthy (2) for his excellent lineout throws. Christiaan (1) and Buffalo (3) were also notable ball carriers.
Veggie (11) and Moyane (14) impressed coaches with their pace.
“The Highlanders attitude is clear that they play without fear, and they are not afraid to run around the field if need be,” concluded Swanepoel.
About the Covid Cup
The Covid Cup was created after one of Middelburg’s players lost his father to Covid-19, according to Swanepoel.
“As a tribute, the family donated a trophy called the Covid Cup and it was decided to make this an annual league between Middelburg and the Highlanders. The debut league began in 2021 and was won by Middelburg in Ermelo.”
See photos here:
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