Ehlanzeni were crowned Pumas Regional Rugby League champions after they thrashed Nkangala 77-5 at Barberton Rugby Club on Saturday, August 2.

The previous Saturday, Ehlanzeni defeated Gert Sibande 45-23 at Bethal Rugby Club.

This is the third consecutive year Ehlanzeni have won the title of Mpumalanga regional champs.

As is the tradition at Barberton Rugby Club, the stands were packed with fans who made plenty of noise as Ehlanzeni put Nkangala to the sword.

The home team outscored the Highvelders 13 tries to one. Left wing Ryno le Grange scored three, while prop Vic Swan and left wing Boeta Botha scored two each.

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While it was not a pretty match, with both teams making too many unforced errors and conceding too many penalties, it was a try-fest for Ehlanzeni.

The home side were superior in every aspect of play. Their scrum was particularly devastating and won them numerous penalties.

Nkangala were outpowered, outpaced and outskilled. Ehlanzeni dominated from the first to the final whistle. The home team held a 38-0 half-time lead.

Nkangala did attempt to up their game early in the second half, but Ehlanzeni absorbed all that was thrown at them and soon Nkangala, clearly the less fit team, ran out of steam.

The onslaught continued, and Ehlanzeni claimed a well-deserved victory.