Strand United closed the curtain on a disastrous season on Saturday (27 August), slumping to yet another defeat at Abattoir Sports Ground in Strand. This time, United were forced to bow the knee to the students of CPUT, going down 15-36 at the Kraal.
The final match of the season was Strand United’s last lifeline to survive in Super League C (SLC). A positive result would’ve meant they would’ve again played in the third highest club rugby league in Western Province in 2023. But the weekend’s loss instead cemented their place at the bottom of the SLC table – 15th position – and means they will be in action in the Northern League next year.
On Saturday, the men from Strand battled to get going and the stronger CPUT outfit dominated proceedings from the start. Although they had to contend with a packed and hostile crowd, the visitors showed why they ended the season in second place on the SLC, playing an enterprising brand of rugby that ensured they kept the scoreboard ticking in their favour right to the end.
For United, the onslaught from the younger and faster CPUT team was only challenged by flankers Angelo Adams and Thakier Williams, who scored a try apiece. Centre Ameer Olivier was successful with one penalty and a conversion from the kicking tee.
But at the end the hosts were not able to keep up with the pace and intensity of CPUT, who now look ahead to SLC play-off matches as promotion to Super League B is still a likely possibility.
