For. Matchday 2, the Rugby boys found themselves at De Kuilen High School. Both sides, like the school, were made predominantly of coloured boys, who were to provide stiff opposition.
The signs were there right from the start of the 2nds’ game, when 20 or so seconds in De Kuilen’s centre seized upon a loose pass and ran in the interception. The danger was clear: De Kuilen had some elusive runners and were dangerous from broken play.
After the start, RGS began to impose themselves, an£ a period of sustained pressure saw the excellent Waterhouse crash over in only his second game back. It was now 7-5 to De Kuilen.
The second half saw RGS run in three tries. Dixit finished a clever move and another classy pass by Stonor at centre. The forwards cashed over for two more,from another returnee, the impressive Makin, and from Kurdi. Unfortunately, strong running from De Kuilen and defensive lapses from RGS, saw De Kuilen run in another three tries too.
And their tries were converted (well, three of them). So, as an injury-hit side pressed at the close, they faced a six point deficit and De Kuilen held on to win 26-20.
There were many positive things to take from the game. The pack controlled much of the play, and we scored four tries. As well Waterhouse and Makin, all the pack stood up; Joe Stonor impressed once more. On the down side, the defensive lapses still hurt us, and we were still failing to finish our opportunities. That’s how tight games are won.
The 1st XV took to the field against a somewhat similar De Kuilen side. The early stages saw an exchange of penalties: James Blackett’s goal kicking was outstanding. The opening phases also saw the whole side, and especially the pack, withstand a physical De Kuilen, and earn the right to play their Rugby. The opening try, from the excellent McKay was well earned.
De Kuilen came back, and it the RGS’ turn to defend. A long period of sustained pressure saw a sin binning for Edwards and De Kuilen crash over. The penalty count didn’t help RGS, and if one or two decisions went against RGS, some ill-discipline didn’t help the cause. However, having conceded, a Dylan Cave try saw RGS regain the lead, and turn around 17-10 up.
The RGS stepped up a gear after half-time. After an injury, Will Ramshaw stepped up to the plate. Having played very well for the 2nds, he did the same for the 1sts. Even better, a neat inside pass was matched by an excellent running line, and Ramshaw was over. De Kuilen came back again, and with 20 minutes to go, the lead was 24-17.
Any nerves were soon eased when skipper Ali Blackett crashed over, his brother again converted. A break by Obonna saw the result sealed: RGS won 38-17.
It was a red letter day for another reason. The two Blackett brothers played together for the RGS for the last time. And a class act they were.
The first win on tour under the belt, a tired by happy party made their way to Stellenbosch.
Next up, we head north, and to Centurion.
RGS South Africa 2018 