Grahamstown Brumbies 1st XV suffered a shock defeat at the hands of Grand Challenge bottom-of-the-log Patensie side, United Barbarians, in Patensie on Saturday.
Grahamstown Brumbies 1st XV suffered a shock defeat at the hands of Grand Challenge bottom-of-the-log Patensie side, United Barbarians, in Patensie on Saturday.
Brumbies lost 62-29 after trailing 7-42 at half-time. Nothing seemed to go the way of the travelling Brumbies side. First, their bus broke down near Hankey. The first reserves players managed to get a lift in a passing minibus.
With the kick-off of the first-team match scheduled for 3.30pm, the Brumbies firsts had not yet arrived at the stadium. As a result, the first reserve players, who had just completed their match, had to take to the field until the firsts arrived. The Barbarians took full advantage.
They went on to score three tries in the space of 15 minutes and a further two in 10 minutes. The Brumbies firsts arrived and, without warming up, hit the field. Most of the first reserves were kept on the field, however, because each team is allowed only seven substitutes or replacements during the game.
Brumbies nevertheless managed to score four tries and collect a valuable bonus point in the process. Brumbies prop forward Antonio May, who had a storming game, was in good form with ball in hand and gained metres every time he touched the ball. He scored a great try, bulldozing his way over. He was well supported by Monray Evans, Antonio Mahapi, Deon Crouse and Gareth Burger.
Vincent Mains and Norman Denston were outstanding on attack and defence and provided stability at the back. Vincent Mains was on target with his boot and converted three tries. This was the Patensie side's first win in the Grand Challenge competition.
Brumbies first reserves continued their great form by beating their counterparts 17-14, despite playing with only 13 players. Bucs Stuurman and Jermaine Walters scored tries.
