Highlanders record victory over Vryheid
It was the Highlanders' first encounter in the Division 1 Fidelity Security Cup and the boys were like knights defending the castle in the Highlanders emblem.
The Boschpick Newcastle Highlanders kicked off their season with a tremendous 54-19 record victory over Vryheid on Saturday.
It was the Highlanders’ first encounter in the Division 1 Fidelity Security Cup and the boys were like knights defending the castle in the Highlanders emblem.
The Highlanders showed tenacity and determination to win this game and possibly the season ahead from the first whistle, as they ran the ball from all corners of the field.
The attacking play paid off as Andre Fourie managed to crash in a try for his squad early on taking the Highlanders into a seven-nil lead.
Vryheid levelled the scores soon after, with an excellent try, putting the pressure back on the Highlanders to triumph away from home.
Max Mkhize and Innus Visser managed to score in quick succession before the Highlanders conceded one more try, and Wandile Nkosi scored moments before the break. At half time, the score read 25-14.
Highlanders took control of the game after the break, scoring at will and running out convincing winners.
“Our forwards provided good clean balls to our pacey hard-running backs. Our captain, Errit Visser led the charges from the front, and deservedly received the man of the match award,” said Highlanders’ coach, Andre Swanepoel.
The coach was also extremely impressed with the commitment and value former Border Bulldogs player, Alister Keet brought to the side.
“He (Alister) is proving to be a valuable asset for the team, and as has become the norm for him, Robert Everson dominated the lineouts.”
Another new addition to the side, is former Griffons man, Johan Esterhuizen, whose big boot helps the team control the game much easier, and ensures the backline is pacey.
The centre combination of Gift Mabaso and Mkhize for the second year, functioned well, both in defence and attack.
“The players did what we set out to do from the word go to win this game, and it was nice to see and hear the players call our moves and going through with it and doing it.”
Tries scored by the Highlanders came from, Wandile, Andre Fourie, Robert, Wandile Sibiya, Innus Visser and Errit Visser.
Johan Esterhuizen kicked five conversions and one penalty.
The second Newcastle side played against Volksrust, winning 45-27 at home, scoring seven tries to Volksrust’s three.
Highlanders invite all supporters to come and enjoy the rugby, as the club takes on Newcastle’s second side at Arbor Park Sports Ground on Thursday, April 16 from 6pm.
Currently the club is undergoing renovations and upgrades, and the Highlanders want the community to enjoy these upgrades with them. There is even a place in the clubhouse where children can play and enjoy their own TV.
