Valke dominate Border Bulldogs with 72-28 win in SA Cup home finale

The Valke delivered yet another spectacular performance at Barnard Stadium, Kempton Park, in their final home game of the SA Cup, thrashing the Border Bulldogs 72-28 on May 10.

The home team wasted no time asserting its dominance, racing to a 48-21 lead by halftime.

Despite conceding four tries, the Valke maintained control throughout, taking advantage of the Bulldogs’ slow start and lacklustre defence.

Valke’s head coach, JP Immelman, was pleased with the result but admitted his team left some opportunities on the field.

ALSO READ: Thrilling U16 clashes to close out 2025 St John’s Easter Rugby Festival

“We’re happy with the win, and scoring 72 points is always something to celebrate,” he said.

“That said, we left a few tries out there on the field and allowed them to score four, so we’ll need to analyse those defensive lapses. In general, I’m pleased with the performance.”

After the break, the Valke turned up the tempo, creating further gaps in the Bulldogs’ defence and maintaining pressure throughout the second half. The Bulldogs struggled to keep up, only managing one more try in the final 40 minutes.

Bulldogs head coach Lungisa Kama acknowledged his team’s shortcomings but was encouraged by their effort.

“We didn’t come here expecting to win, but rather to put in a performance, and we did that,” said Kama.

ALSO READ: KES Easter Rugby Festival 2025: What to expect on the final day

“We walked away with points, which is something we didn’t expect. Ball handling was decent, although we lost possession at crucial moments.”

Man of the match, Valentino Wellman, praised the team’s preparation and execution.

“Our preparation was key. We stuck to our game plan and brought intensity and enthusiasm to the field,” he said.

“We knew the Bulldogs had nothing to lose, so we needed to stay disciplined and not allow them to play their game. We controlled possession and maintained attacking pressure.”

Wellman added that while the Bulldogs have dangerous players, they couldn’t cope with the Valke’s speed and structure.

Also recognised for standout performances were Mihlali Stamper, named front row player of the match, and Liam Kloosman, named backline player of the match.

The convincing win marks a strong finish at home for the Valke as they continue their SA Cup campaign.