Highlanders secure semi-final spot

Following its defeat to Vryheid two weeks ago, Newcastle Boschpick Highlanders was quick to pick itself up when the team faced Piet Retief away on Saturday.

With the home turf advantage, Piet Retief took the bull by the horns in the first 15 minutes, scoring three tries.

Highlanders’ forwards lacked discipline during this opening spell, as the team lost out in line-outs.

However, Highlanders managed to fight back and by the end of the first half, the team had scored two tries, which brought the scores to 24-21 in favour of Piet Retief.

Highlanders seemed to only get going in the second half, as the team switched into high gear and scored four quick tries, following a formation change.

Blindside flanker, Ruan Burr Dixon managed to make up a lot of ground when charging into the fly-half zone.

“We got the better of Piet Retief in the scrums, and soon our backline began charging forward to score four of our seven tries,” explained coach, André Swanepoel.

Furthermore, Highlanders did not give an inch in defence, not allowing Piet Retief to score a single point in the second half.

The final score read 45-24 to the Highlanders, and this means the local boys will be playing the semi-final and finals for a possible promotion spot at home.

Openside flank, Jaco van Staden followed the example of Ruan and both flanks had an exceptional game, while Robert Everson once again showed his strength in the line-outs.

Inside centre, Gift Mabaso, and fly half, Johan Esterhuizen, had excellent games, pushing the team forward with every opportunity.

“Esterhuizen is having a great season. In eights games alone, he has scored 164 points for the club.” said Mr Swanepoel.

Following the first team, the third team took on Piet Retief’s B League team, and lost five-60.

At home, Highlanders’ second and fourth team played host to Vryheid’s A and B teams.

The second team lost nil-59, while the fourth team displayed strength, determination and valour, but still succumbed to a three-point loss.

The final score in the fourth team’s game was 10-13.

Highlanders will be playing one another on Thursday, June 25 at 6.30pm, and residents are invited to support the lads.

A win for the first team will put the squad at the top of the league once more.