Highlanders clinch victory
“The guys did not play a conservative game,” said coach, Andrè Swanepoel. “It was a final. They ran the ball at every opportunity they got, even from within their own 22.”
The Boschpick Newcastle Highlanders trumped Vryheid on Saturday to take the league.
The final was closely contested by both sides, with Highlanders walking away victorious with the score on 24 – 17 at the final whistle.
For the second weekend in a row, Highlanders travelled to the game as the underdogs. After a nail biting semi-final in Piet Retief, hopes were high leading up to the league final.
The home team led early in the game after a penalty. Good running and the consistent Highlanders’ back line brought in three tries.
“The guys did not play a conservative game,” said coach, Andrè Swanepoel. “It was a final. They ran the ball at every opportunity they got, even from within their own 22.”
After half time, Vryheid came back to the field with all guns blazing, and scored quickly to bring the score to 21 – 10 from 21 – three at half time.
“Both sides had good scoring opportunities,” said Mr Swanepoel. “We held on to the lead and are delighted to have won the crown of Champions for the 2014 league.”
Gift Mabaso, ‘Ferrari’ Hadebe and Janri Barnard each scored a try apiece, while Mornè Hattingh racked up nine points with the boot.
Highlanders Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors and supporters for their ongoing support.
Highlanders will play against Port Shepstone in Pietermaritzburg this coming weekend for the Dewar Shield and bragging rights as the best First Division rugby team in KwaZulu-Natal. The winner will also play against Empangeni, for a spot in the Premium Division.
