Simmers win season

From the start, it seemed as if Diggers Rugby Club would dominate the game against Germiston Simmer Rugby Club in the Senior Grand Challenge final, but the ‘Simmers’ quickly fought back to win 24–21.

The stands were full of supporters at Wits University for the nail-biting contest on 13 August. The Malanshof-based Diggers dominated the scrums and the majority of possession, but the first three points of the game went to the Simmers with a penalty kick. The first try was scored by the Simmers after a handling error by the backline of the Diggers, making the score 10–0. Not long after, the Simmers scored another try, worrying the Diggers fans with a 17–0 lead.

The Diggers finally got their turn with a try by the forwards driving over the line. This try came just before half-time, making the score 17–7. Half-time saw both teams in intense talks with their coaches.

Early into the second half, and the Simmers once again scored a try with a successful conversion, making the score 24–7. The Diggers however, did not give up hope and fought back with good play to make it 24–21 at the end.

Coach of the Simmers, Maree Bester, said he is very proud of his team as this is the first time since 1992 that they have won the cup. “We lost only one game in the entire season,” said an elated Bester.

Diggers vice chairperson, Marc Baker said that the club is extremely proud of all its players. “We were the only club to have all our teams participate in the finals,” said Baker, referring to the 1st, 2nd and U20 teams. He added that they will take the lessons from this loss and build up into next year’s season and emerge as champions once again. “I would like to thank all our players for their dedication throughout the year and our supporters for standing with us,” concluded Baker.

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