THE Harlequins Ladies were edged 31-24 by Clermont-based Black Panthers in a fiercely contested encounter at Harlequins Stadium on August 23.

The match got off to an intense start, with both sides immediately going on the attack as they searched for an early advantage. Harlequins showed determination and discipline, applying pressure while maintaining a strong defensive structure.

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Neither side was prepared to give an inch as the battle continued into the first half. Harlequins repeatedly pushed forward in search of points, while Black Panthers responded with attacks of their own.

The home side’s defence remained resolute, preventing Black Panthers from taking complete control of the game.

At halftime, Harlequins had shown enough fight to suggest they could challenge for victory in the second half.

However, Black Panthers returned from the break with renewed purpose and changed their approach. The visitors increased the pressure, launching a series of attacks as they looked to exploit gaps in the Harlequins defence.

The game then developed into an end-to-end contest, with both teams going head-on and looking to capitalise on every opportunity.

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Black Panthers eventually gained the upper hand, scoring the points needed to secure a 31-24 victory.
Despite the defeat, Harlequins Ladies coach Carel Nel praised his players for their determination and commitment throughout the match.

“We stuck to our game plan and worked together. With the yellow cards we received, we literally played 80 minutes with 14 or 13 players on the field,” said Nel.

“Overall, I am so proud of the girls. It shows that they fought right until the end,” he added.

Nel said the match marked the end of the team’s season, with the players now turning their attention to the off-season.

“This is the end of the season for us. From here, it will be the off-season, and we will focus on gym work and preparing for our next games,” he said.

Black Panthers coach Lungani Shelembe acknowledged that his side had struggled during the opening half but praised the players for adapting after the break.

“It was a tough game. We suffered a lot, but we managed to step up in the second half. We had to adjust, bring on fresh legs and change our game plan. We improved the way we defended and capitalised on their mistakes. That made the difference for us,” said Shelembe.

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