Pumas lift SSRC trophy
The iCollege Pumas' Justin van Staden's drop goal in the 83rd minute of the final of the SuperSport Rugby Challenge (SSRC) at the Bridgton Sports Grounds in Oudtshoorn will be a moment that rugby fans will always remember.
The Pumas, the only unbeaten team in the challenge, finished their campaign on a high note when they beat the Tafel Lager Griquas 32-30.
They ended a valiant Griquas’ dream, who will have to wait another year to lift the trophy after also ending as runners-up last year.
In injury time, Griquas held a slender 30-29 point lead, but after 25 phases, scrumhalf Stefan Ungerer made the pass from the base of a driving maul to Van Staden, who clinched the game for the Lowvelders.
The Pumas went into half time with a 22-7 lead and with less than 10 minutes to go, Peter Engledow’s men took a 30-22 lead.
Morné Joubert scored a converted try in the 77th minute of the nail-biting encounter.
Griquas took control of the second half by using their scrum dominance, but in the end it was not enough to break a powerful Pumas side.
What the iCollege Pumas have been sharing on social media after the game
“My hubby plays his 100th game for a team that has become so close to his heart. We started our lives together in this beautiful place. Its been such an honour and I am in awe of all the accomplishments he has achieved during our almost six years here.”
“Champions! The 8, 9 and 10 combo.”
‘It’s coming home to the burra.’
Bruce Amr Fore
‘I’m so humbled to be part of the Pumas family. Grabbing that trophy means something to me.’
Photos: Chris Vermaak / Oudtshoorn Courant
