Now in its 15th year, the Gelofte Night Series remains one of KZN’s largest interschool sporting events, drawing more than 600 pupils from 14 primary and high schools to compete in rugby, hockey and netball throughout March.

Curro is competing in both netball and, for the first time, rugby.

Netball

Following last week’s gritty 21-15 win over Durban Girls’ High School, the Curro team produced a clinical performance to beat Durban Academy High School 44–1 in a one-sided encounter. The emphatic victory propelled Curro to the top of their pool with 22 points, level with tournament hosts Gelofte.

For the second consecutive week, Grade 11 standout Megan du Plessis was named Player of the Match for her composure, accuracy and dominant presence on court.

“Over the last two weeks, our performance has been improving,” said Megan. “The games were challenging, but we gave it our best and pulled through.”

Megan credited the team environment for Curro’s strong start to the tournament.

“Being part of this team is a privilege,” she said.

“I love how we work together and encourage each other on and off the court. I’m excited for what we can achieve together in the future.”

Head coach Chené Gissing said she was impressed by the performance.

“Our main objective was to chase bonus points,” explained Gissing.

“I am incredibly proud of the team for sticking to this goal and successfully earning all the required bonus points to put us top.”

ALSO READ: Curro crowned KZN netball champions | North Coast Courier

Gissing praised her squad’s commitment and chemistry, which she believes will be crucial heading into their final pool fixture.

“As always, I am extremely proud of the team’s performance and their discipline, teamwork and determination,” she said.

Curro now face Kloof High School tomorrow (March 6) in a decisive match that will determine semi-final placement.

“They are strong opponents, but we are looking forward to an exciting and competitive match,” added Gissing.

Rugby

Curro Salt Rock’s 1st rugby team endured a difficult evening, falling 7-35 to a powerful Kloof High School outfit. The result follows last week’s 0-12 loss to Pinetown Boys’ High School in Curro’s first-ever competitive 15-man fixture.

Despite the scoreline, Curro showed marked improvement, crossing the tryline for the first time in the tournament. A sharp line break from centre Raelyn Govender split the defence and set up midfield partner Xavier van der Berg, who crossed the whitewash for the team’s first-ever try. Flyhalf Hiratio Ward added the extras.

Head coach Sifiso Shabangu said the squad’s progress was evident.

“Again, we were the underdogs, but the players showed big heart. It was a better display than last week,” said Shabangu.

ALSO READ: Curro enters new era with first full season of 15-man rugby | North Coast Courier

Curro’s chances of an upset were derailed by a costly five-minute period in which the team received three yellow cards.

“We were forced to chase the game with 12 players for extended periods. Despite this setback, the team showed resilience, grit and strong character throughout,” said Shabangu.

Tighthead prop Owen Fourie earned Player of the Match honours for a commanding performance in the scrums and on defence.

“Owen carried well when needed and made aggressive tackles,” added Shabangu. “He anchored the scrum well and performed his primary duties well.”

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