The Ultra Liquors Ballito Dolphins continued their recent positive momentum with a dominant win over Amanzimtoti Rugby Club last weekend.

Facing off against their rivals from the south, the Dolphins’ 1st and 2nd XV teams delivered strong performances in front of a vocal home crowd on Saturday.

The new home of the Dolphins at Oaklands Equestrian Estate has proved a fantastic move, with players and fans alike voicing their support.

This formed the stage for the three bruising encounters in perfect afternoon conditions.

First off, an internal 7s game was played to give Dolphins newcomers a chance to run out in front of their future supporters.

It was evidence of increased depth among the seniors, who have at times struggled to field two full teams in recent years.

Then it was the turn of the plucky 2nd XV who have slowly increased in confidence this season. Some returning veterans, including man-of-the-match ‘Ballie’ Jacques Cilliers, made the difference and the 2nd XV finished with a hard-fought 12-5 victory.

“Next up were the 1st XV who were determined to keep the run of home victories intact and exact revenge after a 12-10 loss away at Toti earlier in the season,” said Dolphins chairman, Mark Svenningsen.

“When the Toti pack took the field it was clear this was going to be a gargantuan tussle up front with the two packs clearly not raised on a plant-based diet!”

Man-of-the-match Tembz Sibuta dotted down early to press home the advantage, before captain Carlo Gresse added a try and conversion of his own in his 50th appearance for the Dolphins.

Toti struck back with a try after an exciting line break from their fullback to cut the deficit to seven points at half-time.

The Dolphins started the second half like the first, with Leighton Taljaard running in an early try to calm the home team nerves.

Toti grabbed another unconverted consolation try before Taljaard added his second for a bonus point Dolphins victory of 26-10.

It is now a well earned week’s break for the team before they play two home games in a row, against Hillcrest (June 8) and Kokstad (June 15).

There is a great feeling around the club at the moment and it is well worth your time to spend a few hours getting behind the local boys on a Saturday afternoon.

Drinks and food are on sale on site.

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