In an electrifying encounter at Boland Stadium, the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers clinched a heart-stopping 25-24 victory over the Phangela SWD Eagles in the Carling Currie Cup First Division clash. It was a match that had fans on the edge of their seats right until the final whistle.
The conditions were far from ideal, with the field wet and muddy, setting the stage for a gritty and physical contest. Both teams displayed incredible determination, making this one of the most memorable games of the season.
First Half:
Boland hit the ground running, leveraging their home advantage and adapting quickly to the challenging conditions. Flyhalf Ashlon Davids was the standout in the early exchanges, notching up a try and converting two penalties to give Boland a solid start. The Kavaliers’ forwards were relentless, with lock Michael Benadie crashing over the line to further extend the lead.
However, SWD Eagles were not about to roll over. Their flyhalf, Marlo Weich, orchestrated a superb comeback, with precise kicking and tactical acumen. The Eagles’ centers, Clive Kruger and Edwin Sass, were particularly impressive, cutting through Boland’s defense to keep the scoreboard ticking. At halftime, Boland held a slender 18-17 lead.
Second Half
The second half was a testament to the toughness and tenacity of both sides. SWD continued to apply pressure, and their efforts paid off with Kruger scoring twice, showing his class and strength in breaking tackles.
Boland, though, were determined to defend their home turf. The Kavaliers’ forwards, led by the indefatigable Emile Booysen, pushed back. With time running out and the Eagles leading by six points, Boland’s persistence finally paid off. Booysen’s try in the 78th minute brought the Kavaliers within a point, and Davids, showing ice-cool nerves, slotted the conversion to clinch the win.
Key Performers
- Sanlam Boland Kavaliers: Ashlon Davids (Flyhalf) – a masterclass in game management and clutch kicking; Michael Benadie (Lock) – powerful in the set pieces and around the park; Emile Booysen (Reserve Hooker) – the match-winning try and relentless work rate.
- Phangela SWD Eagles: Marlo Weich (Flyhalf) – orchestrated play beautifully and was accurate off the tee; Clive Kruger (Outside Center) – two tries and a constant threat in attack; Edwin Sass (Inside Center) – strong ball carries and solid defense.
Scoring Summary
- Sanlam Boland Kavaliers:
- Tries: Michael Benadie, Ashlon Davids, Emile Booysen
- Conversions: Ashlyn Davids (2)
- Penalties: Ashlyn Davids (2)
- Phangela SWD Eagles:
- Tries: Sachin Toring, Clive Kruger (2)
- Conversions: Marlo Weich (3)
- Penalties: Marlo Weich
Player Movements
- Sanlam Boland Kavaliers: Sauliegh Arendse made way for Gift Dlamini at 53 minutes, while Andrew Beerwinkel and Neil Rautenbach were substituted at 60 minutes to bring on fresh legs in Gerrit Bester and Emile Booysen.
- Phangela SWD Eagles: Early injury saw Thoubaan Gabriels replaced by JP Duvenage at 15:00, with Stephan Leonard and Cecil Rittels also substituted around the 54:00 mark for tactical adjustments.
Conclusion
This clash was a vivid reminder of why rugby is a sport loved by so many. The sheer drama, the intensity, and the never-say-die spirit showcased by both teams made for an unforgettable match. Boland Kavaliers’ last-gasp victory keeps them in strong contention as the Carling Currie Cup progresses. Fans will undoubtedly be buzzing from this performance, eagerly awaiting the next showdown. For now, the Kavaliers can savor this hard-fought win, knowing they have the heart and resolve to go all the way.
