The Newcastle Boschpick Highlanders bounced back strongly from heavy defeats last weekend, narrowly beating Baberton 33-28 at the Arbor Park sports grounds in front of a well-supported home crowd.

Second-half surge seals victory

Highlanders took control of the match after the scores were locked at 14-14 at half-time.

They went on to score five tries to Baberton’s four, with two quick strikes after the restart shifting momentum firmly in their favour.

When Moyane (11) crossed to extend the lead to 33-14, the result looked all but secured. However, Baberton mounted a late comeback with two tries, including one in the final minute, but ultimately fell just short.

The win earned Highlanders five log points, their first of the Super League season after two matches, lifting them into the upper half of the standings.

Forward dominance lays platform

The pack provided a solid foundation throughout the encounter. Daniels (2), Buffalo (1) and Lucky (3) anchored a dominant scrum that consistently put Baberton under pressure.

The line-outs, effectively led by Henk (4), functioned well and created valuable attacking opportunities for the back-line.

Kheswa (6) impressed at the breakdown, disrupting opposition possession while delivering a strong defensive shift.

Captain Henk (4) also led from the front with a committed all-round performance.

Back-line sharp in key moments

In the back-line, Gift (12) grew into the match after a slow start, eventually taking control of both attack and defence.

Sfunda (13) stood out as a promising young talent, showing pace and composure throughout, while scrum-half Lwazi (9) displayed experience and vision with a well-timed long pass that set up Moyane’s try.

Point scorers

• Sfunda (13): 2 tries
• Moyane (11): 1 try
• Nipho (14): 1 try
• Siya (7): 1 try
• Batanda (10): 4 conversions

Looking ahead

Highlanders travel to Secunda today (April 25), where they will field two teams.

A club spokesperson noted that home fixtures will be especially important this season, as travel to venues such as Nelspruit, Baberton and White River could impact on player availability, with early departures often required.

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