The Phangela SWD Eagles secured a convincing 48-22 win over the Border Bulldogs in an entertaining SA Cup clash at Outeniqua Park. Despite a close first half, where the Eagles led 19-15, the home side pulled away in the second half, scoring eight tries to dominate their opponents.
Border Bulldogs Start Strong but Eagles Respond
The game began with a Maxwell Klaasen penalty (4′) to give the Bulldogs an early lead. The match saw a series of disciplinary issues, with Mangaliso Zixesha (22′) and Soso Xakalashe (22′) both receiving yellow cards, allowing the Eagles to capitalize through a Clive Kruger try (23’), converted by Braam Abrahams.
The Bulldogs, despite their numerical disadvantage, fought back, with Kamvelihle Fatyela (30′) and Hlumelo Pantyo (32′) both scoring to regain the lead. However, the Eagles struck again through Sachin Toring (37′), who converted his own try to restore their lead before halftime at 19-15.
Eagles Dominate the Second Half
The second half began in disastrous fashion for the Bulldogs, as the Eagles were awarded a penalty try (42′), while Larry Nkonki was sent to the sin bin. From there, the home side took control, running in five more tries to seal the match.
- Sachin Toring (48′) scored his second of the match, converted by Braam Abrahams.
- Dian Basson (57′) and Mpho Ntsane (61′) added further tries, with the Bulldogs struggling to keep up.
- Stone Cloete (77′) crossed for the final try to put the result beyond doubt.
Despite a Simthembile Zozi try (44′), converted by Klaasen, the Bulldogs had no answer for the Eagles’ second-half dominance.
Discipline Proves Costly for Bulldogs
Both teams suffered from poor discipline, with four yellow cards shown in total. The Bulldogs, in particular, struggled when down a player, conceding crucial points while shorthanded.
Standout Performers
- Sachin Toring (Eagles) – Scored two tries and controlled the game from scrumhalf.
- Clive Kruger (Eagles) – Scored the opening try to set the tone.
- Maxwell Klaasen (Bulldogs) – Scored two conversions and a penalty, but his efforts were not enough.
Final Thoughts
The Phangela SWD Eagles’ powerful second-half performance secured a crucial victory, as they outclassed the Border Bulldogs in all facets of the game. The Bulldogs showed resilience in the first half but will need to improve their discipline and defensive structure going forward
