Pumas U/16 vs Griquas U/16

Recap

Gqeberha, 17 June 2024 – The Pumas U16 team displayed exceptional skill and teamwork to secure a commanding 39-14 victory over the Griquas U16 in their opening match of the U16 Grant Khomo Week at Grey High School. The Pumas’ performance was characterized by a strong offensive drive and solid defense, establishing them as a formidable team in the tournament.

Match Summary:

• Final Score: Pumas 39 – 14 Griquas
• Halftime Score: 14 – 7
• Venue: Grey High
• Date: 17 June 2024
• Competition: U16 Grant Khomo Week 2024

Scoring Breakdown:

For Pumas U16:

• Vian Louw (J #8): 1 try, 2 conversions
• Jeandre Cornelius (J #9): 1 try
• Buhle Mphahlaza (J #10): 2 conversions, 2 penalties
• Siboniso Mahlangu (J #13): 2 tries
• Ewan Van Der Merwe (J #22): 1 try

For Griquas U16:

• Jg Van Heerden (J #9): 1 try
• Ane Gubula (J #17): 1 try
• Duran Makoni (J #12): 2 conversions

Match Highlights:

The Pumas demonstrated their dominance early on, with a strong first-half performance that set the tone for the rest of the game.

• First Half:
  • Vian Louw scored the opening try for the Pumas, converting it himself.
  • Siboniso Mahlangu added another try, with Buhle Mphahlaza converting.
  • Griquas responded with a try from Jg Van Heerden, converted by Duran Makoni, ending the half at 14-7 in favor of the Pumas.
• Second Half:
  • The Pumas extended their lead with a try from Jeandre Cornelius, followed by two successful penalties from Buhle Mphahlaza.
  • Siboniso Mahlangu scored his second try, showcasing his exceptional skill.
  • Ewan Van Der Merwe added another try to solidify the Pumas’ lead.
  • Griquas managed to score another try through Ane Gubula, converted by Makoni, but it was not enough to close the gap.

Key Player Movements:

• The Pumas made several tactical substitutions around the 30-minute mark to maintain their high energy levels, bringing on players like Damian Niewenhuys, Seabi Ramodike, and WP Human.
• Griquas also made strategic changes, including the substitution of Naldo Hughes with Juvan Stander.

Player of the Match: While the Player of the Match was not officially announced, Siboniso Mahlangu’s two tries and overall impact on the game were pivotal in the Pumas’ victory.

Key Takeaways:

• The Pumas showcased their offensive capabilities and defensive resilience, establishing themselves as strong contenders in the tournament.
• Griquas displayed moments of brilliance but struggled to match the Pumas’ pace and coordination.

This emphatic win by the Pumas over Griquas at the U16 Grant Khomo Week highlights the high level of competition and emerging talent in South African rugby. Fans can look forward to more exciting matches as the tournament continues.