THE supporters of the Framesby rugby team probably feel they have now had enough of nail-biting finishes.
After winning their previous three home matches in Gqeberha by small margins, it was yet another nail-biting affair, this past Saturday, against Nico Malan.
In the windy conditions, the match was no spectacle and the result was always in the balance.
The visitors from Humansdorp were leading 6-3 at the break, but with about 15 minutes left in the match the scores were level at 13-13.
The reliable boot of fly half Logan Muller played a huge role in Framesby’s success this season.
It was fitting that he slotted the winning penalty a few minutes before the final whistle to secure a 16–13 victory. Nico Malan was without their regular captain, Max du Pisani. He was the only Eastern Province player involved in the U/18 International Series that ended in Paarl on Saturday.
The hardworking loose forward played for the SA A-team that was beaten 20-15 by France in wet and cold conditions.
Otto du Plessis played some fine rugby at the JJ Engelbrecht-field of Cillie on Saturday in Gqeberha.
A close match between the first teams was predicted by most but Otto was at their very best and downed a game against Cillie 29-0.
In Kariega, it was a very close affair between Daniel Pienaar and Ithembelihle.
DP kicked a penalty just before the final whistle to scrape home 14-12.
DP started the match strongly but after half-time, Ithembelihle picked up the pace with the big number eight, Xhanti Wakie, leading the way.
Ithembelihle took the lead with a try by prop Mugsi Banzi but DP fought back strongly and was rewarded with that final penalty.
Although the rugby season is something of the past at most schools, there are a number of sevens’ tournaments to be played in the near future.
The action this coming Friday and Saturday will be at Framesby, who will be hosting a sevens’ tournament with many exciting matches to look forward to.
For Framesby, it will also be good preparation to make sure of a good showing at the Outeniqua Sevens in George on September 9 and 10.
