The ill-discipline prevented Griquas from stamping their authority on the game, but the win moved them into fourth place on the Currie Cup standings.
THE WINDHOEK Draught Griquas secured a well-deserved 42-27 victory over the Novavit Griffons in a highly entertaining Carling Currie Cup match played at Windhoek Draught Park on Sunday.
The Griquas started the game with high energy and determination, and their early efforts were rewarded when Tertius Kruger cleared the try line and Eddie Fouché successfully slotted the conversion.
Griquas did not let up on their intensity and Johan Mulder dotted down soon after, with Fouché once again converting. The spectators in the fully packed grandstand were ecstatic as they watched the hosts dominate their visitors. The first half ended with Griquas 21-8 ahead.
The Griffons started the second half with renewed energy and determination. They kept the Griquas at bay and when Griquas players twice were shown yellow cards, the visitors were able to score a couple of tries of their own, allowing the Griffons to come back and narrow the gap.
The ill-discipline prevented Griquas from stamping their authority on the game, but the win moved them into fourth place on the Currie Cup standings, pushing the Blue Bulls into fifth and Western Province into sixth place.
Despite the setbacks, Griquas did not lose their focus and ended the game on a high note. George Whitehead scored a try in the 73rd minute and Eddie Fouché converted it to extend their lead.
When the final whistle blew, Griquas stood tall, winning the game with that 42-27 scoreline.
The match was an excellent display of rugby skills from both teams. Griquas played with great determination and their teamwork, their strong defence and attacking skills were too much for the Griffons to handle.
The victory is a much-needed boost for the Griquas, who have been performing well this season, but have been on the losing end – not picking up vital bonus points far too often for their liking.
They have shown that they are nonetheless a force to be reckoned with this season and have proven themselves as a team to watch out for.
Overall, it was a good performance by the hosts and the team will no doubt look to build on this win and continue their winning streak in the upcoming matches.
Match Statistics
Griquas 42 (21) – Tries: Tertius Kruger, Johan Mulder, Niel Otto, Stephan Smit, Rosko Specman, George Whitehead. Conversions: Eddie Fouché (6).
Griffons 27 (8) – Tries: Dandre Delport, Jean Pretorius, HP van Schoor (2). Conversions: Duan Pretorius (2). Penalties: Jaywinn Juries.
