SUPPORTERS of school rugby in Nelson Mandela Bay have returned to their favourite routine on a Saturday.
For most schools their rugby season is now in full flow. There was already a huge derby match in Kariega on Saturday, when Muir College beat Daniel Pienaar in a tough encounter 16–10 as part of Founders Weekend.
DP was leading 10–3 at half-time, but the second half belonged to Muir. After scoring a good try to draw level, Muir continued to pile on the pressure. Although DP defended bravely, they did give Muir the opportunity to kick two penalties to clinch a well-deserved victory.
The forwards and backs of Muir combined well at times, with some strong runs, and should have scored more if it wasn’t for poor handling at crucial moments.
Many of the NMB schools got into the swing of things by getting involved in one of the many festivals being held all over the country. These festivals have become a traditional way for many schools to get the ball rolling, and it was the turn of Despatch to host a successful one this past weekend.
There was a festive atmosphere late Saturday afternoon when the home side took on Union High of Graaff-Reinet in the final match.
It was a tough encounter but Despatch did enough in the first half with the help of the wind at their backs. They built up a nice lead of 15–0 at the break after opening their account with a penalty, and then scoring two tries – of which one was converted. Although they had to play against strong wind in the second half, Despatch only conceded a penalty, to win 15–3.
Despatch played their best rugby in the first half, with the loose forwards, Louis Fourie and Devondre Fortuin, getting their team over the advantage line with strong carries.
The home side also scrummed well, and there was enough flair in the backline to keep the pressure on Union High.
The spectators were on their feet every time the Despatch fullback Jason Pretorius, touched the ball. He is an exciting attacker and will no doubt test the defenders this season.
Despatch could probably have scored more tries, but their handling let them down on many occasions. Then there was the ferocious tackling of the visitors. Union High never gave up and defended aggressively, at times too aggressively, leading to a red card late in the match.
Results (first teams)
Muir College 16, Daniel Pienaar 13; Despatch 15, Union High 3; Bergsig 31, DF Malherbe 7; Volkskool 17, Otto du Plessis 8; Kirkwood 14, Alexander Road 7; Burgersdorp 33, Andrew Rabie 12; Nico Malan 32, Port Rex 5; Adelaide Gym 24, Victoria Park 3.
- Mail schools fixtures and results to steenkamphenk@gmail.com.
