Super League B front-runners Macassar travelled to Gustrouw Sports Ground to face lower-placed St George’s in another mouthwatering Helderberg derby, and while the visitors came away 16-8 winners, it was anything but straightforward.

The MC Boys arrived in Strand as clear favourites based on their place on the log, but a bye the previous weekend proved a mixed blessing for the visitors. The break was telling early on, as they struggled to find rhythm and a foothold in the contest.

The Lulu Boys gave a good account of themselves throughout, anchored by an outstanding defensive display.

Where Macassar did assert themselves was up front, particularly at scrum time, with Anwar Benjamin and Johan Lavin a constant menace to the opposition in the tight exchanges. Lavin, drafted into the starting side for the injured Nangamso Bukani, delivered one of his best performances in the blue shirt.

St George’s, meanwhile, handed a first big senior outing to under-20 star Nathum Botha, whose unpredictability and composure on the ball caught the eye – a performance that would have pleased head coach Mirwaan Davids.

True to derby tradition, both sides struggled to find control amid a stream of unforced errors. The MC Boys led 0-6 at the break through two well-struck penalties by Garth de Bruin.

The second half opened with renewed intent from both teams, though it was the Lulus who looked to have the upperhand for long periods, dominating possession. Penalties by Keanu Cyster and De Bruin traded back and forth to push the score to 3-9.

With the contest tightening and both sides searching for the crucial score, St George’s finally broke through with around 10 minutes remaining. A sustained period of pressure was capped when centre Raees Collins finished from close range off a quick tap, cutting the deficit to 9-8. Cyster’s conversion attempt drifted wide.

Just as the home side sensed a first lead was within reach, the visitors found another gear – as if the stakes had suddenly become clear. Replacement prop Hewson Petersen was the man to deliver, crossing next to the upright for a converted try that put the visitors 16-8 ahead.

It proved the decisive score, with St George’s unable to find a way back before the final whistle.

As is so often the case in a local derby, either side could have taken the spoils on the day, and St George’s can be proud of their effort. Collins, loose forward Adriaan Fredericks and hooker Mark Sylvester impressed throughout the match, while Davids will also take real encouragement from young Botha’s contribution.

For Macassar, the half-back pairing of captain Jovan Cookson and De Bruin continues to prove the difference – game management and all-round quality that simply can’t be bought and a combination capable of turning a match around.

The result sees Macassar slip to second on the log behind Belhar, who hold a superior points difference. St George’s, meanwhile, look set for the drop to Super League C, but can build on the positives from this performance heading into next season.

POINT SCORERS:

Macassar – Tries: Hewson Petersen; Conversion: Garth de Bruin; Penalties: Garth de Bruin (3).

St George’s – Tries: Raees Collins; Penalties: Keanu Cyster.