Highlanders dominates Volksrust opponents
Highlanders coach, Robert Everson gave his team a talking to during the break, and encouraged them to utilise space in wider channels and provide quicker ball for the backs.
Boschpick Newcastle Highlanders upped the ante against Volksrust on Friday.
The club faced its fellow Northern KwaZulu-Natal side in two matches at the Arbor Park Grounds, beginning with a second team clash.
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“It was good to see so many players coming out on a Friday evening, wanting to play rugby,” said Highlanders head coach, Andre Swanepoel.
Highlanders II ran out convincing winners by 69 points to nil.
With the tone set perfectly for the bruising game to follow, spirit in the stands built to a fever pitch, with spectators on either side cheering each movement of the ball.
It was Newcastle which ultimately claimed the win.
The game began in good fashion for Volksrust however, with attackers and defenders applying heaps of pressure and forcing mistakes from the locals.
Despite this, the team went into the half time break 38 – 12 ahead.
Highlanders coach, Robert Everson gave his team a talking to during the break, and encouraged them to utilise space in wider channels and provide quicker ball for the backs.
His talk certainly inspired reaction from the players.
Highlanders returned to the pitch for the second half firing on all cylinders, scoring 50 unanswered points en route to a 14-try crushing of Volksrust by 88 points to 12.
“It is pleasing for the club to see so many young players putting up their hands at this level.”
Among top performers on the evening was lock, Ruan Fourie, who stepped in as captain after personal circumstances ruled Wandile Sibiya out of action for the night.
Fellow lock, Lappies Labuschagne both excelled with three tries.
Another under-20 player who showed depth of talent was Jaco Tru
ter at flyhalf, who dotted down two tries and made nine conversion kicks.
“The support play of Max Mkhize [outside centre] and Brian Buthlezi [right wing] was outstanding. Buthelezi also scored three tries.”
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Highlanders will next be in action during the Shosholoza Cup in Dundee, which forms part of Sentraal Rugby Club’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
Two teams are set to represent Newcastle in this competition.
“We would like to use this tournament to give players a chance to earn game time. The halves are only 10 minutes, with three games per pool.”
Highlanders under-20s will travel to Nelspruit next weekend.
The team’s match against Nelspruit will serve as both a curtain raiser for the Steval Pumas, and also as trials for the Pumas under-20 Currie Cup squad.
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