Highlanders look ahead following defeat

Newcastle Boschpick Highlanders suffered its first defeat last weekend at the hands of the league leaders Vryheid, bringing their undefeated seven game-streak to an end.

Nonetheless, coach Andre Swanepoel was still pleased with his squad’s impressive start to the season.

“We’d rather have the loss now, than closer to the end of the season,” he said.

The 25-16 loss to Vryheid meant the Highlanders would fall one point behind Vryheid in the League standings, but still have a game in hand.

The loss was especially difficult as the boys were playing on home turf, Arbor Park Sports Grounds, and both the third and second teams had secured points from its earlier games.

“The team played well, we moved the ball well, but fumbled at the wrong moments. We conceded and missed our opportunities,” admitted Mr Swanepoel.

The Highlanders’ second team drummed up a 46-21 victory over Volkrust A, while the third team managed to secure a draw from the Volkrust squad in the B-League.

Looking ahead, Highlanders’ first team will be trying to take the top of the table by winning its next games, as it has a comfortable 10 point lead over third placed Piet Retief.

The second team is looking for a third placed finish in the A-league, and will have to close down on the eight point difference between itself and Piet Retief.

Highlanders’ third and fourth teams are currently in place for a middle of the table finish in the B-League, following outstanding performances from Sentraal, Piet Retief and Vryheid.