The Novavit Griffons staged a sensational second-half comeback to edge the Sanlam Boland Cavaliers 38-35 in a nail-biting SA Cup encounter in Welkom. In a game featuring five tries apiece, the hosts overturned a 17-28 halftime deficit, securing victory with a late surge.
Boland Cavaliers Dominate First Half
The Cavaliers started on fire, responding to an early Simon Westraadt (3′) try for the Griffons with three quickfire tries of their own. Keenan Opperman (12′) crossed first, before Cornal Hendricks (19′, 25′) bagged a brace, both converted by Ashlon Davids, putting Boland ahead 21-7.
The Griffons kept themselves in the fight with a penalty from Andrew Kota (30’) before ill-discipline hurt them, as Simon Westraadt and Rian Olivier were sent to the sin bin. The Cavaliers capitalized immediately with a try from Ashlon Davids (34′), which he converted himself to make it 28-10.
However, just before halftime, Lungi Mbiko (38′) gave the Griffons a much-needed boost with a try, converted by Andrew Kota, reducing the deficit to 28-17 at the break.
Griffons’ Second-Half Comeback Seals the Win
The Cavaliers extended their lead shortly after halftime through a Lunathi Nxele try (42′), converted by Davids, stretching the score to 35-17.
But from there, the Griffons mounted a stunning comeback, sparked by a Andrew Kota try (49′) and his successful conversion. With Boland’s Gift Dlamini (44′) in the sin bin, the home side took control.
- Junior Banda (66′) powered over to bring the score to 35-31, with Kota converting.
- Chris Hollis (76′) then scored the decisive try, converted by Kota, to put the Griffons 38-35 ahead.
The Cavaliers pushed for a late response, but Griffons’ defense held firm to seal the dramatic victory.
Key Performers
- Andrew Kota (Griffons) – Scored a try, five conversions, and a penalty, instrumental in the comeback.
- Cornal Hendricks (Cavaliers) – Scored two tries in the first half but was quieter after the break.
- Chris Hollis (Griffons) – Scored the match-winning try in the dying moments.
Final Thoughts
The Novavit Griffons’ resilience and second-half dominance secured a stunning comeback victory, while the Cavaliers will be frustrated with their inability to close out the game after leading by 18 points. This result boosts the Griffons’ SA Cup hopes, while Boland will need to regroup after a heartbreaking defeat.
