Toti rugby players remain cool under pressure
Amanzimtoti Rugby Club's U20s and second team dominated their games, while the first team's closely contested game ended with a draw.
THERE was a hive of activity at Hutchison Park recently, as Amanzimtoti Rugby Club’s U20s’ second and first teams took on the opposition in an electrifying performance.
As the first game kicked off, it was clear Toti’s U20s meant business. Amanzimtoti Rugby Club’s U20s coach, Owen Masinga, said the forwards dominated the game from the onset, with aggressive carries and unforgiving collisions that left the Ogwini Bafana side reeling.
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“However, the opposition came out fighting in the second half, determined to mount a comeback. Despite a yellow card, Toti weren’t about to let their lead slip away,” he said.
As the final whistle blew, Amanzimtoti had secured an impressive 48–0 victory. Masinga said it was a stunning performance that saw them finally secure their first bonus point of the season and put them back in contention.
The second team took on Ballito, and the air was electric with anticipation as both sides stepped onto the pitch with the fire of competition burning in their hearts.
“Ballito came out guns blazing, seeking to make their mark early on and establish dominance. Toti, however, absorbed the pressure with a calm and steely resolve, waiting for the right moment to strike,” said Masinga.
By half-time, they had established a commanding lead of 22–0. As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard told the story of a game dominated by Toti, with a final score of 48–3. Masinga said it was a comprehensive victory, one that showcased their skill, teamwork, and sheer determination.
The first team played against Ballito in a highly anticipated match. Masinga said the general expectation was that Toti would win the match comfortably, but to everyone’s surprise, Ballito had other plans.
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“After a period of sustained pressure, Toti finally got their first try through an interception from Akim Dick. Another try came from the captain, Michael Uppink,” he said.
The half-time score stood at 12–5 in favour of Toti. However, the second half saw Ballito launch a series of attacks that resulted in them scoring two successive tries, which shook Toti up.
Despite the gap, Ballito launched their final attempt at the try line, and successfully scored in the corner. “The game ended at 19–19, leaving both teams with mixed emotions,” said Masinga.
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