The Brumbies first rugby side had a lot to celebrate on Workers' Day as it marked their first win in the Eastern Province Super League Grand Challenge and the return of star player Vincent Mains.
The Brumbies first rugby side had a lot to celebrate on Workers' Day as it marked their first win in the Eastern Province Super League Grand Challenge and the return of star player Vincent Mains.
Playing at the Oval, the public holiday game was well attended by adoring fans who witnessed Brumbies beat Parks rugby club from Port Elizabeth.
Getting the scoreboard ticking, Mains slotted an early penalty just before Parks hit back with two penalties.
Wing Shannon Flotman broke through Parks' defences and sidestepped his way to score the first try of the game. Mains converted to give his side a 10-6 lead.
Minutes later, Park replied with a try of their own to regain the lead 11-10.
The tables turned again by half-time when Brumbies centre Joe Mqubuli scored, also converted by Mains, giving the Grahamstown team a 17-11 lead.
In the first minute of the second half Parks wasted no time scoring a fine drop-goal, leading the Brumbies forwards to whip out one of their secret weapons – effective driving mauls.
After each side slotted in another penalty, a fantastic group effort by Brumbies players earned them another try. Mains did not convert, but Brumbies were still in the lead at 25-17.
Park replied with a converted try, bringing the score to 25-24 to Brumbies, but it was too late for the visitors as the final whistle blew to give Brumbies a home-side victory.
"It was a great team performance today with both the youngsters as well as the experienced players showing great character and standing their ground," said Brumbies coach Maasdorp Cannon.
"There are also a lot of key players still injured but it's great to see the youngsters and other players putting their hands up and showing their depth in the side," he said.
Defending top seven champs, the Brumbies first reserves, overpowered Park in the main curtain-raiser last Wednesday to win 33-24. Try scorers: Enrico Tarentaal (2), Carl Peters, Llewellyn Featherstone and John-Ross Randall. Shanton Whitebooi converted four tries.
Brumbies second team lost 14-26. Sirghay Hoffman and Remano Haywood each scored for Brumbies.
