Sentraal go down fighting against Volksrust

Sentraal endured an afternoon of what they thought were harsh referee calls, compounded by a never-say-die Volksrust team that hung on for a memorable 28-33 win over their Dundee hosts.
For the second Saturday running, Sentraal hosted Mpumalanga visitors who played hard. But this time, Sentraal were equal to the occasion and were not fazed by Volksrust’s early try. They hit back with a try of their own through scrum half Henry Liversage. Volksrust scored again and also notched up three penalties.
But again Sentraal fought back – this time, lock Danie Vermaak, dotted down. With Matthew Brookes on target with the conversion, the home team went into the break 14-23 but were eager to overturn the deficit.
The second half was a tough one for the hosts – yellow cards to Eugene Corbitt (he was later given a second yellow which meant a sending off) and captain, Henk Booysen, meant that Sentraal played most of the 40 minutes with 14 men.
By this time frustration was beginning to creep in with the referees and his linesmen who Sentraal’s management felt were being particularly harsh to the Dundee team.
Tabane Motto scored for Sentraal, despite these setbacks, to make the score 21-23. However, Volksrust answered with two uncoverted tries to pull ahead 21-33. To Sentraal’s credit, they rallied again and Senzo Ndlovu charged through for a runaway try under the posts. With the score at 28-33, the game was poised for a classic finish. Sentraal tried all they could but Volksrust held on.
Johann Coetzee of Sentraal said while the players showed true grit, he wanted all players to ensure they honoured practice sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
He also thanked fans for their support but urged them not to drive on the adjacent hockey field at Dundee High School where Sentraal games are played.
“Those who bring in refreshments must please clean up afterwards. Also, please do not braai on the fields. Spectators are welcome to braai next to the changing room on the far side. We want to respect DHS.” Sentraal has a free Easter weekend with their next game on April 27 in Newcastle against Mighty Buffalos. Sentraal need a win to lift them from the lower end of the league table.

The Sentraal Brain’s Trust: Johann Coetzee and Henk Booysen.

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