THE Amanzimtoti Rugby Club’s (ARC) U20s, second and first team, saw a triumphant return to the field on July 15 after a three-week layoff.
The U20 side played Richard’s Bay at home and were determined to finally secure a bonus point against a team that had caused them problems in the past. Their coach, Owen Masinga, said Richard’s Bay started strong, scoring two quick tries and exposing the wings.
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“However, Toti rallied and managed to score three tries through their co-captain Keagan Myburgh and some sniping runs by Stefan Vosloo. The game ended 29–17 in favour of Toti, with the U20s finally securing the elusive bonus point against Richard’s Bay,” he said.
The second team, which played Ballito Dolphins in an away game, played with intent, fully aware that they needed to keep up their momentum on the log.
Masinga said, “The game was a closely contested affair, with both teams unwilling to give away any points. However, the combination of PJ Butler’s hard-hitting runs and accurate passes from RD Jansen van Vuuren proved to be the difference maker. Toti managed to secure all five points with a 24–22 victory.”
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The first team’s game against Ballito Dolphins was the most anticipated of the day, as Toti had drawn with Ballito at home in their previous encounter. Masinga said both teams were desperate for log points, and coach Zander Erasmus’ troops were determined to put on a show for the crowd.
“Toti’s pack laid a good foundation for the backline to attack, and Ballito’s backline struggled to keep up with the firepower of the likes of Mike Uppink at 12,” he said.
Masinga added that standout performances from Werner Jacobs and Calvin Lombard, who scored three tries, contributed to Toti’s dominant 33–18 victory.
“Overall, it was a great weekend for ARC, with all teams collecting bonus points from their fixtures. The return of rugby after a three-week layoff was a welcome relief for players and supporters alike, and the strong performances from all teams will no doubt serve as a source of motivation as they continue their season and strive to achieve their goals,” concluded Masinga.
This weekend’s home games, on July 29, see the U20s go head-to-head with UKZN Durban at 12:00 while the first and second teams take on Pietermaritzburg’s teams at 15:30 and 14:00 respectively.
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