Ballito Dolphins show good form
The Dolphins had some opportunities to earn an away win but the spoils were ultimately shared in what was a great rugby game to watch.
The Ballito Dolphins first rugby team earned a thrilling draw in Amanzimtoti at the weekend, raising hopes of a bright season ahead.
In what was their second fixture of 2023, the Dolphins took two teams down the coast to face off against strong Amanzimtoti Rugby Club (ARC) competition.
The Dolphins lost to Hillcrest on matchday one, but took away a series of positive signs, all of which would be needed against an ARC team that were last season relegated from the Premier Division.
The men from ‘Toti had too much for a young Dolphins second team mostly made up of U20 players in their first season of club rugby, and they were ultimately beaten comfortably.
But the experienced first team players showed they have the ability to compete against the best in their division.
“The match started with ‘Toti camped on our line, but our guys showed stout defence and managed to claw back some territory. An intercept opened the scoring for the home team, but Dolphins’ forward dominance eventually paid off,” said Dolphins chairman, Mark Svenningsen.
Quality scrummaging from front rowers Wandile Kushu and big Marv Chakanyuka built consistent pressure throughout, eventually leading to Robbie Kruger bustling over the whitewash to make it seven all.
The rest of the first half showcased bruising rugby, with both teams crossing the line again, including a fantastic Dolphins try from Wanga Shumi set up from a Carlo Gresse line break, bringing the halftime score to 14-12.
Despite the visitors earning better chances in the second half, it was ‘Toti who scored first to make it 19-12.
A nervy last quarter ensued, but some individual brilliance from Grove Akker saw the winger running 70 metres to convert the match-levelling try.
The Dolphins had some opportunities to earn an away win but the spoils were ultimately shared in what was a great game to watch.
It is now a two-week break for the teams before they play their first home game.
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