In a bittersweet conclusion to their 2023 Western Province Super League B season Strand RFC locked horns with Collegians RFC at Accordion Park in Belhar on Saturday (2 September).
Though the final score of 19-3 favoured Collegians RFC, the local team managed to end their season with a positive mindset. The sole penalty for Liga came courtesy of the boot of Nathan Fransman.
The first half saw both teams locked in a relentless battle in true and classic club rugby fashion. Strand started strong, gaining an early lead thanks to a perfectly executed penalty kick by Fransman. The scoreline remained unchanged until the half-time whistle blew.
“Our team’s defensive prowess was on full display in the opening 40 minutes,” said Strand RFC’s director of rugby, Ramone Samuels.
“Neutralising Collegians’ attacking attempts and holding them at bay proved to be a stretch too far. The half-time break left us with a slim lead, but the challenge ahead was crystal clear.
“Collegians came out of the break with renewed vigour, determined to reverse the scoreline. They unleashed an impressive second-half performance that left us struggling to maintain the lead. A beautifully orchestrated set-piece allowed Collegians to break through our defence, resulting in a try that swung the momentum in their favour.”
Despite Strand’s best efforts, Collegians’ relentless attack led to two more converted tries, ultimately securing their victory with a final score of 19-3.
“While we couldn’t secure the win in our final league match, the boys showed remarkable resilience and character throughout the contest,” Samuels related.
“As we wrap up our season, I can’t help but feel proud of the positive aspects of our performance throughout the season. While the final score may not reflect a victory, our determination, sportsmanship and unwavering effort shone brightly on the field. Notwithstanding the amount of work that we need to put in, in the off-season, the guys put up a good fight and we will sharpen the skills and improve the areas we have identified as we prepare for the 2024 season.
“Looking back, I am grateful for the support of our dedicated fans, coaching staff, sponsors, management team, and the camaraderie within the Strand RFC family.
“This match and some other matches throughout the season may not have ended the way we wanted it to, but it serves as a stepping stone and a benchmark for our players to continue pushing and pursuing the collective goal.
“I am incredibly proud of how we started, despite the odd injury and niggle here and there, the team proved that they can battle it out with the more experienced and seasoned clubs.”
