After an action-packed day at the Grant Khomo Week held at Grey High School in Gqeberha teams are gearing up for another day of intense matches in the prestigious U16 tournament. Bolands narrow triumph over the Golden Lions and stellar performances from Western Province, the Blue Bulls, and the Sharks have set a standard for the competition.
Recap of Day 1
The initial day saw several fought battles unfold. Boland had a start against the Golden Lions leading 15 3 at halftime. Despite a comeback attempt by the Lions Bolands flyhalf Jano van Deventer secured victory with two penalties clinching a 21 16 win.
The Pumas displayed their attacking prowess with a 39-14 victory over Griquas highlighted by center Siboniso Mahlangus’s two tries. The Griffons narrowly defeated Valke in a 17-15 clash while the Sharks staged a comeback to beat Free State 26-20 after trailing by 10 points at halftime.
In a closely contested match against Western Province XV, the Blue Bulls maintained their composure to secure a narrow 26-24 victory with two crucial kicks from flyhalf Vihan Pretorius.
Western Province however pulled off a win, against the hosts Eastern Province by scoring five tries in their 38 25 victory. The Leopards showed dominance over Limpopo Blue Bulls with six tries to secure a 40-7 win.
Day 2 Fixtures
The upcoming day holds a lineup of thrilling matches that are set to keep the excitement going.
On Kolisi Field
The Pumas will kick off against Free State at 09;20 in what’s expected to be a showdown.
Border will face the Griffons at 10;45.
South Western Districts (SWD) are set to clash with Western Province XV at noon.
At 13;15 the Blue Bulls will take on Boland in a match-up.
The action-packed day on Kolisi Field will wrap up with a game between Western Province and the Sharks at 14;30.
On Pollock Field
Namibia will challenge Border Country Districts at 09;20.
Zimbabwe is scheduled to play Limpopo Blue Bulls at 10;45.
Valke will go head-to-head, with Free State XV at noon.
Leopards are pitted against Griquas for a match starting at 13;15.
The Golden Lions will face Eastern Province in competition beginning at 14;30. Matches to Keep an Eye On;
Pumas, vs Free State; Both teams showed form on the first day with the Pumas securing a convincing victory over Griquas and Free State facing a narrow defeat against the Sharks. This game will put both teams resilience and skills to the test.
Western Province vs Sharks; This match, set for 2;30 pm at Kolisi Field is anticipated to be one of the day’s highlights. Both teams achieved wins on opening day. This showdown could have a significant impact on the tournament standings.
Blue Bulls vs Boland; Another match where both sides aim to capitalize on their beginnings. The Blue Bulls close triumph over Western Province XV and Bolands thrilling win against the Lions set up a clash watching.
As the tournament advances we can expect intensity and competitiveness as each team strives to leave its mark. Fans and scouts will be eagerly observing to see which rising talents step up and potentially secure their positions, in rugby upper ranks.
Stay tuned for updates and outcomes as the Grant Khomo Week continues showcasing top-tier U16 rugby action.