Matsulu Mambas strike down Black Cats in rugby league clash

The Matsulu Mambas’ six tries and stern defence clinched a 38-5 victory over the KaMhlushwa Black Cats at KaMhlushwa Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

This was the first clash between the Phakisa Mayor’s Reserve League newcomers and there was a lot of anticipation and excitement among the crowd.

They expected Kasi rugby, a brand characterised by quick side-steps and great running.

Drama ensued right from the kick-off, when Mfundo Mabunda of the Mambas was sent off for 10 minutes with a yellow card for a dangerous tackle on Mkhosi Shongwe during the kick-off chase.

The Black Cats immediately took advantage with a quick tap and go, only to be let down by a knock-on in the face of a resolute Mambas defence.

The two teams felt each other out, each holding their own for the first 20 minutes of the game.

READ: Visitors prove too strong for local rugby teams

During the 21st minute, the Mambas’ backline got the better of the Black Cats’ defence and Skhumbuzo Hlatshwayo sprinted 30 metres to score the Mambas’ first try.

This was followed by five more and four successful conversions.

The Black Cats could only manage a single try by Bongani Maziya.

The match highlighted the quick pace, skill and finesse with which township rugby is played.

Three more yellow cards were handed after the incident with Mabunda – two for teammates and one for Karabo Magagula of the Black Cats.

READ: KaMhlushwa Black Cats promotes rugby in rural Nkomazi

The Mambas are now at the top of the log after four matches and the Black Cats at the bottom.

Prince “Mbuzi” Masango was named man of the match.

The Black Cats’ captain, Khula Mashaba thanked the fans for their growing support and said the team hoped to get the whole community next to the field in support.

The Black Cats hope to get more young people to join community clubs like theirs. They also thanked the Nkomazi Local Municipality for their support in advocating for sports development.

The Impala Rugby team of Komatipoort were also victorious this weekend. They played in Hazyview and beat the home team 20-15.

According to the club chairman, Ben Jordaan, the Hazyview forwards were bigger but the Impalas put up some great defence.

Dirk le Roux, Siyabonga Khoza and Terence Khoza scored tries, while Brennon Jordaan earned them a successful conversion and penalty kick.

READ: Baberton’s defense trips up Impalas in first league match

The Impalas would like to thank the Buffalo Hotel for transporting their players to the match.

Following the high of their win, the Impalas hope to repeat their performance when they face Lydenburg in Komatipoort on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 15:30 and supporters are welcome.

Saturday will also see the Black Cats take on Hazyview at the KaMhlushwa Stadium and Malelane clash with the Pumbas of Hoedspruit in Malalane, both also at 15:30.