Match Report : 1st XV DHS 35 - 7 Pionier :
The Horseflies started their pre-season fixtures with the 3.5 hour journey to Glencoe to take part in the Sarel Cilliers 45th Rugby Day. Their preparation saw them pitted against the area’s strongest team, Pionier Hoerskool, notoriously known for their physicality.
However, it was to be a day where the DHS pack really stood up and dominated from start to finish. This was most evident in the scrum where props Mthokozisi Gumede and Sandile Nduzi showed their superiority. This translated into ruck time too where DHS were able to gain momentum through their interplay between the forwards. Grant Khomo player Celimpilo Gumede scored the opening try as he bounced off two defenders to start the points tally.
However, DHS had to rally hard after 10 minutes when lock Chris Coleman was sent off for a dump tackle. The team not only had to deal with the red card but also drew two yellow cards for dubious infringements. The numerical advantage for the opposition did not deter the Horseflies as they worked harder to ensure they covered for their team mates. Captain Phendulani Buthelezi led from the front and he was assisted admirably by SA Schools scrumhalf, Sanele Nohamba.
With DHS looking to move the ball, they conjured up another try from Craven Week wing Tonderai Ndudzo who coasted over after the forwards chipped away at the advantage line. Another try came the way of prop Sandile Nduzi after his fellow prop Gumede set him up with a lovely timed short pass.
The 2nd half saw Ndudzo score the try of the game running from his own 22m, fending off one player, stepping another and shirking the tackle of a 3rd to score a fantastic solo effort.
The game was wrapped up by a break from Craven Week Centre, Onke Jiba, who found Nohamba with an inside pass before he stepped through to score. The DHS kickers Nohamba and Trent Askew converted all their opportunities on the day.
The game proved to be a great test of character for “School’ and the trip back home was a happy one!
S Mathie
Head of Rugby/1st XV Rugby Coach