The Novavit Griffons flexed their attacking muscle in a dominant 55-32 victory over the Border Bulldogs in an action-packed SA Cup clash at Sisa Dukashe Stadium. Despite trailing 25-19 at halftime, the visitors stormed back in the second half, scoring eight tries in total to secure a comfortable win.
Border Bulldogs Start Strong but Griffons Stay in the Fight
The home side got off to the perfect start when Soso Xakalashe (2′) powered over for the opening try. Fly-half Maxwell Klaasen missed the conversion but added an early penalty (5′) to give the Bulldogs an 8-0 lead.
The Griffons responded quickly, with Simon Westraadt (10′) scoring from a rolling maul, converted by Andrew Kota, before Chris Hollis (17′) crossed for another try to give the visitors their first lead of the match at 14-8.
Xakalashe added his second try (19′), with Klaasen converting, as the Bulldogs regained the lead at 15-14. A penalty from Klaasen (25′) stretched their advantage before the Griffons struck again through Simon Westraadt (35′). The Bulldogs finished the half strongly, with Sakhe Dingile (39′) diving over in the corner to give them a 25-19 halftime lead.
Griffons Run Riot in the Second Half
The second half was all Novavit Griffons, as they turned the game on its head with a devastating attacking display. Chris Hollis (44′) and Simon Westraadt (51′) both dotted down early in the half, with Andrew Kota’s accurate kicking pushing the visitors into a commanding position.
Further tries from Andrew Kota (55′), Quan Eymann (58′), and Ulrich Stander (72′) sealed the result, as the Griffons overwhelmed the Bulldogs with their speed and precision.
Border Bulldogs managed a late consolation try through Larry Nkonki (80′), converted by Klaasen, but by then the result was long beyond doubt.
Discipline Woes for Both Sides
The match saw four yellow cards, with Awonke Sondishe (Bulldogs), Mangaliso Zixesha (Bulldogs), Kyle Cyster (Griffons), and Ulrich Stander (Griffons) all spending time in the sin bin. The Bulldogs particularly suffered as they conceded key points while a man down.
Andrew Kota’s All-Round Brilliance
Griffons winger Andrew Kota was the standout performer, contributing one try, six conversions, and a penalty in a flawless kicking display. His accurate boot kept the scoreboard ticking and played a crucial role in turning the game in the second half.
Final Thoughts
The Novavit Griffons’ powerful second-half performance proved too much for the Border Bulldogs, who started well but couldn’t match the visitors’ intensity after the break. With eight tries scored, the Griffons showed their attacking intent and will take confidence from this performance as they continue their SA Cup campaign.
For the Border Bulldogs, there were promising moments, particularly in the first half, but defensive lapses and ill-discipline proved costly. They will need to regroup quickly if they hope to bounce back in their next fixture.
