The might of Boschpick Newcastle Highlanders was felt once more in District Rugby Sub-Union, as the men in red and gold reclaimed the top of the table spot.
The Highlanders achieved this feat, after beating Newcastle 1 (Highlanders’ second team) 64-21 last week Thursday during a surprisingly warm winter’s evening.
This win has allowed the Highlanders to finish the Round Robin section of the league with four points clear of closest competitors, Vryheid, and will mean the club will host the semi-final and finals of the tournament of July 11 and 18 respectively.
Following the 10 tries scored against Newcastle 1 during last week’s game, Highlanders have amassed a massive 75 tries in just nine games.
On Thursday, the back line and forwards shared the spoils of victory with each line scoring five tries.
Flank, Ruan Burr Dixon had a storming game, while young lock, Dilan de Beer had a fine game for the first team.
Fly half, Johan Esterhuizen contributed another 17 points for his side, and has racked up an incredible 182 points single handedly for the Highlanders, a record in the club’s books.
A few standout players from the younger second team included, flank, Shakes Mbatha, and prop, Brandon Mcquade.
Scrum half, Gary de Jager, fly half Alex Booysen and centre Prince Mofekenge also showed excellent development in the second team.
Coach, André Swanepoel believes number eight for the second team, Dilan Stols, would be a first team selection for any of the other clubs in the league.
“The young lads are bringing a lot more depth to the club, and the new players are allowing the club to grow constantly.”
The second team qualified as well to participate in the semi-finals later this month, while the third team also managed to qualify for a semi-final spot in the second division of the league.
The fourth team was unlucky to miss a spot in semi-finals after it dropped one point and failed to qualify for the semi-finals.
Highlanders will be hosting the semi-finals and finals on July 11 and 18 respectively, and the community is encouraged to support the boys, as they look to claim the trophy for the second year.
