Zulu’s match-winning try a nasty surprise for WRRC

White River started out on the offence and gained the lead in the first few minutes with a try. The conversion was unsuccessful. Malelane fought hard toget some points on the scoreboard and after a few unsuccessful attempts at breaking through White River’s defence, Charles Baggot of the Olifante managed to score their first try, to tie the score at 5-5.

The home team finally found their stride and scored another try (Andricus Burger) thanks to some great teamwork and a spectacular run almost the length of the field. It was followed by a successful conversion.

Shortly after, Mfundo Mabunda was helped off the field by paramedics due to a leg injury.

White River managed to fight back and score their second try just before half time.

With the score 12-10 for Malelane, heading into the second half, the home team was determined to keep their lead. They were awarded a penalty and Rudolf Botha earned his team another three points. Malelane followed this with another try, by Hernus van der Nist and a successful conversion by Botha.

White River scored the next try and the conversion was on target.

The visitors exploited the gaps in Malelane’s defence for their fourth try to tie the score at 22-22.

By this time, several passionate Malelane supporters were on their feet, shouting for a last-ditch effort.

Thanks to the fast feet of Surprise Zulu, Malelane got another try minutes before the end of the game and the conversion gave the home team a victory of 29-22.

Martin Mhlongo and Bongani Mathebula were named forwards of the match and Andricus Burger the back player of the match. Malelane faces the Rooikatte in Lydenburg on Saturday afternoon in their last match before the semi-finals.

View more photos here.