Scottburgh Raggies end season triumphantly

THE Raggies rounded off their season last Saturday in a cup final against the South Coast Warriors at the Country Club. As previously reported, it is difficult to understand why, after not losing a single SKZNRU fixture and beating the Warriors both at home and away, that this match be played at all.

The Warriors arrived at the Country Club with a side consisting almost entirely of first division players who play for their first team in the DRSU league – a tad unfair to say the least. This situation only seemed to fire up the Raggies, who again left their change room more than ready for the task ahead.

From the kick-off it was very clear that the Raggies were in it to win it and, within five minutes, sent captain Chad Fisher over the chalk; Milo Usher made short work of the conversion and the home side enjoyed an early seven-point lead. Next to score was Reghart Labuschagne; again Milo had no difficulty slotting the conversion and lifted the score to 14/0.

With the half-time whistle imminent, the hosts seemed to lose concentration and allowed their opposition to slip through their defence and ground the ball between the sticks for a soft try.

At the break the scoreboard read 14/7.

The second half saw veteran forward Conrad Kleinhans, with no regard for his body and, off a five-metre penalty, crash through the opposition’s defence to score. Again Milo’s kick was successful, adding a further seven points. Chad Fisher then scored, ending a move that went through eight phases. Milo’s attempt was beaten by the swirling wind and the Raggies were 26 points to seven ahead.

The Warriors, with their backs to the wall, made one final desperate play, got through the Raggies and were rewarded a seven-pointer. The final score was 26/14. This was a tremendous effort by the Raggies who, largely due to their loyal supporters, never lost a home game the entire season.

The Raggies have won the SKZNRU league and come third in the ‘Foaden Bowl’ (DRSU). All this with only one side to choose from.

The club wishes to thank its sponsors, Halfway Toyota and County Ford, Wimpy and Ocean Basket (Scottburgh Mall), Magma Security paramedics, Pro-Ex Paving, Derek and Ronell of the Country Club, Steve Usher and Mike Powel for their work on the pitch and the many other good people who contributed to the club’s success.

A special word of thanks to Steve Leech and his committee and the coach Des MacLean who has taken this side to a new level.