Top of the log EP Grand Challenge Shield B leaders Motherwell, from Port Elizabeth, extended their lead on the log standings with a convincing win over Rosebuds from Alicedale on Saturday 11 August. The Shield B fixture was contested in Alicedale in near perfect Saturday afternoon conditions.
Motherwell Firsts came into the match at full strength, with only one thing on their mind – to collect maximum points, which they did in style. The game was as expected, hard, physical and was played in a very good spirit. The game was a closely contested affair and Rosebuds put up a brave fight against a Motherwell side that was expected to dominate proceedings. The home side’s inside centre, Lance Louw, slotted two penalties to give Rosebuds 6-0 lead. Motherwell responded by scoring three converted tries, through Scrumhalf Sias Sozuxa, Flyhalf Kisten Jaars and Lock Bonani Norawana, for a 6-21 halftime lead. Jaars converted all three tries.
The second half started off much better for Rosebuds as they play more structural and with their skilful and speedy young exciting backline. Rosebuds were rewarded for their efforts with a converted try by Lance Louw to narrow matters 13-21. That was also the only try of the match for the hosts. Motherwell reserve flanker, Mawanda Yako, scored Motherwell’s fourth and bonus point try that Jaars converted for a 28-13 lead. Jaars ended off the match with a successful penalty attempt, taking to visiting Motherwell side to an impressive 13-31 win over Rosebuds.
The Motherwell First Reserves side completed the successful day for the visitors, with a good 5-22 victory over Rosebuds.
Other Grand Challenge Shield B Results:
Booysens Pride 28-0 Glen Roses (walkover)
Kwaru 28-0 St Marks Alicedale (walkover)
Zwide 15-15 St Marks PE
This Weekend’s Fixtures:
Rhodes vs Rosebuds
Motherwell vs St Marks PE
Kwaru vs Glen Roses
Booysen’s Pride vs Zwide
