Xerox Golden Lions and Eastern Province Kings delivered a scintillating encounter at the Pirates Rugby Club on 28 May as they drew 35 all.
The game was part of the Lions initiative of taking rugby back to grassroots level during this year’s Currie Cup campaign.
Five clubs were granted the rights to host Currie Cup matches after a tender process was followed and Pirates Club was one of the clubs selected.
The Currie Cup is South Africa’s premier rugby competition and has a rich history which dates back to 1889.
Kings were the first to break the deadlock in the eighth minute courtesy of a penalty. Lions soon replied as Bobby de Wee Lions dotted down after a clever pass by JW Bell.
The Lions started slowly and looked a bit rusty in the first few minutes but soon after they started to dominate and at half time they led 20-13.
The Kings showed more intent and better execution of their possession in the second half but the lions stood strong.
In the 46th minute the Kings received a penalty try and fly half Garrick Mattheus who was in fine form converted.
The Lions taught they had the game in the bag until JP Jonck stepped up and crossed the white line for the Kings and Mattheus converted to level the score with last kick of the game.
Brad Guymer, chairman of Pirates Rugby Club was delighted with the show they put as a club in such a prestigious occasion.
“We are pretty chuffed with the way things have gone, its outstanding to have Currie Cup rugby here at Pirates. To have one of the oldest trophies in the country at one of the oldest club is fantastic,” he said.
Guymer admitted that they expected a much bigger crowd but the challenge was the Lions’ first team was playing Super rugby on the day and most supporters had gone there.
