Boschpick Newcastle Highlanders ended off their most successful season in years with a five all draw against Empangeni in a promotion relegation match for a spot in the premium division.
Empangeni retained their spot, as only an outright victory could have secured the place for Highlanders.
The Highlanders were a force to be reckoned with this year, winning the Northern KwaZulu-Natal League from Vryheid and the Dewar Shield from Port Shepstone, giving the team ultimate bragging rights as the best First Division team in KZN.
Unfortunately, the Highlanders drew short in the Junior Murray Cup Final in a closely contested match against the Jaguars, and of course, drawing the promotion relegation match against Empangeni, a strong team which the Highlanders defeated earlier in the season.
“All in all it was a very good season for us as a club,” said coach, Andrè Swanepoel. “Thanks to the players, supporters and our sponsors. Without all of their support, we would never be able to play the game. The Highlanders have done Newcastle proud.”
The other Highlanders teams also did well this season. Highlanders II played in the NKZN first division and finished fifth overall and also played in the Keith Parkinson Knockout Final against the Jaguars, unfortunately losing 36 to 15. Highlanders III and IV played in the second division, with Highlanders III making it to the NKZN league semi-final.
“The players will be off for a month now before they start off season training,” said Mr Swanepoel. “Hopefully Highlanders can go one better next season, and win the promotion game.”
