Highlanders’ spirits dashed by White River

In the main game, Highlanders I got off to a good start and were ahead by a converted try within the first 10 minutes. White River soon equalised, then took the lead.

June 28, 2019

Bruce Douglas 2 minutes read

Phakisa Premier League leaders, White River (Witrivier) ran riot in Newcastle on Saturday.

Despite the home field advantage and a crowd of supporters, Boschpick Highlanders could not produce the goods against its toughest opposition yet.

The afternoon began with the second team clash.

Highlanders II put in a spirited effort, with Jaco Truter (fly-half – 10) controlling things and leaving White River to play a guessing game.

Mzo (scrumhalf – 9) provided crisp passes to his fellow backs.

Up front, Boela van Rooyen (prop – 1) and Sheldon Pienaar (hooker – 2) played well, with Lukas Erasmus (flank – 7) outstanding in the lineout set pieces.

Despite their efforts, White River II won by 35 points to 27.

In the main game, Highlanders I got off to a good start and were ahead by a converted try within the first 10 minutes.
White River soon equalised, then took the lead.

With the visitors employing an exhausting breed of wide running rugby, Highlanders seemed only able to look on and by half time, White River was ahead by 28 points to 10.

Despite this, Highlanders attempted to rally in the second half.

However, two consecutive tries from the kick-off led White River to an unassailable 41 – 15 lead, and two more tries sealed the deal at 54 – 15.

Injuries played a part in the Highlanders defeat.

Players were reportedly called away from local duty, as five first team members left the pitch during the first 20 minutes of the game.

Head coach, Andre Swanepoel said, “Besides this disruption, we have to step up on fitness and defence, if we want to make headway in the league. Our attack looks good at times, but we need to keep it up for 80 minutes.”

Ruben Swanepoel (hooker – 2) was a standout player while Ruff Natsi (lock – 4) had some strong runs before his injury.

Hendrik Grobler (flank – 7) played his heart out as captain.

Corne Vermaak (fly-half – 10) was another notable player, but soon joined the exodus of injured players leaving the field. This weekend, Highlanders faces Witbank away on Saturday afternoon.

Meanwhile, Newcastle Highlanders is on local duty against Vryheid, with a match scheduled for 3pm at the Arbor Park Grounds in Newcastle.