Poor discipline once again almost costs them.
The Heidelberg Rugby first team scored an unexpected and passion-filled victory over Sasolburg Cobras Rugby Club yesterday (May 18) in a controversial clash at the DP de Villiers Stadium in Sasolburg.
The match formed part of round three in the Valke Rugby Merlin League competition.
The teams were evenly matched before tempers boiled over midway through the first half, when each team received a yellow card for foul play. Shortly hereafter, Heidelberg received a red card for a tip-tackle and within five minutes received another for a similar offence. The Sasolburg men obviously smelt blood in the water and although they went into the break trailing 8-10 to the visiting ‘Berge, the body language showed that they were confident of taking control in the second period and cruising to an expected victory.
However, what the Cobras didn’t count on was the passion and hunger of the Heidelberg squad as well as an inspirational half-time talk from head coach Jaco van Rensburg. The team weathered an initial Sasolburg onslaught at the start of the second stanza but at no time did they allow the home team to make inroads. The ‘Berge defended like men possessed and when they did create a chance to score, it was taken with both hands. During the final minutes the seven-man scrum of the visitors totally demolished the eight of Sasolburg, putting into perspective what this team is made of.
At the final whistle, Heidelberg had run out winners of the contest by 25 points to 13.
In the curtain raiser, the Heidelberg second team kept their unbeaten record in the league intact with a convincing 34-12 victory over the Cobras. As mentioned last week, this team continues to grow in stature and confidence the longer they play together. This was an impressive win and we hope that this run can continue deep into the season.
These were not only massive victories for Heidelberg, but a reminder of what they are capable of when the teams play as a single unit. If the discipline can be improved (first team specifically), there are no limits as to where these teams could end up in their first season in these extremely tough leagues.
The Berge now face the defending Merlin League champions, Meyerton, in a home clash this coming Saturday (May 25). More on this later in the week.
Well done boys, Heidelberg is proud of you!
Lekker man!
