Ballito Dolphins outsmart UKZN

The Ballito Dolphins first XV ran onto their new field on Saturday, July 11 with fire in their bellies as they took on the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in their second last game of the season.

Captain Sky van Niekerk led his team onto the pitch for only their second match on their new home turf at Sugar Rush with nothing but sweet victory in mind.

Before the game, UKZN occupied the place above the Dolphins on the league table, which made the clash even more significant as the season draws to a close.

Looking to impress their loyal supporters, the home team dominated from the moment the referee blew his whistle. Applying pressure on UKZN at every breakdown, the Dolphins were rewarded with three points early on and never looked back.

As the pressure mounted on UKZN an inspired Dolphins pack won a turnover in their own 22, which was converted into a dazzling individual try by inside centre Anthony Fivaz, who sidestepped and pushed his way through for the team’s first of many scores.

Flyhalf Michael Steel added the extras to give the Dolphins a 10-0 lead by the end of the first quarter.

The Dolphins started playing end-to-end rugby which opened up the defence of their visiting opponents and allowed the Ballito boys to run in a few more slick tries before the end of the first half.

The second half was a more closely contested affair with UKZN coming out fighting. The visitors ran in three hard-fought tries, but in the end the Dolphins’ lead was too great to challenge.

Stand out performances came from flyhalf Michael Steel, inside centre Anthony Fivaz and winger Bhekani Dlamini, who displayed the value of a fast-paced running attack, creating many opportunities for points as a result.

The forwards were also impressive in the scrums and lineouts, showing great strength and control at every set piece.

The Dolphins ultimately secured a convincing 43-19 bonus point victory over UKZN, which particularly pleased club chairman Kevin Murphy. “This is a special win for the players. They put their bodies on the line every week and to win on their own field in front of their own supporters makes this win very rewarding,” said Murphy.

The Dolphins will play their last league game next week against Westville and they will be looking to finish the season on a high note to take some momentum into the off season.