Elande shows grit in second half against University of Johannesburg
Fiftheen minutes of frustration and lack of concentration cost the Elande against the University of Johannesburg.
In a frustrating turn of events, the Elande rugby team fell victim to a lack of concentration, allowing the University of Johannesburg to score two quick unconverted tries within minutes of the kick-off.
The home crowd, consisting of approximately 1 600 spectators, was left stunned and silenced. It seemed like a typical varsity/club rugby encounter, where the university side dominated every aspect of the game, threatening to run away with a massive 50-point lead.
The final score ended in a 41-10 victory for the university side, but this result does not accurately reflect the game’s true nature.
After the initial 10-0 deficit, the Elande regained their composure and started playing their brand of rugby. They managed to earn a well-deserved penalty, successfully kicked by Jason Botha, putting the home team on the scoreboard.
However, with only 15 minutes remaining in the first half, tempers flared and Alberton received a yellow card, leaving them with 14 men on the field.
UJ swiftly scored 24 unanswered points, resulting in a daunting 34-3 halftime score. It seemed like a long and challenging second half awaited the Elande.
“Having been involved in rugby for over 30 years, I had never witnessed a turnaround quite like what unfolded in the second half of this club fixture,” said Rory Lategan from Alberton Rugby Club.
“It remains unclear what exactly was said or done in the halftime break, but something sparked a remarkable transformation. The Elande emerged from the tunnel as a completely different side, displaying newfound determination and delivering outstanding rugby.
“While their efforts were met with resolute defence from UJ, denying them from scoring on eight separate occasions within two meters of the try line, it was evident that the Elande had not surrendered.”
The passionate support of the 1600-strong Alberton faithful echoed throughout the stadium, applauding the Elande’s remarkable second-half performance. With each team scoring one converted try in the second half, it showcased the potential of the Alberton side when their rugby instincts, mental fortitude, and skills align.
The Elande aims to build on this positive momentum from the last 40 minutes of the game.
