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The Golden Lions have unveiled their squad for the FNB u18 Craven Week, which takes place from 7-12 July at Hoërskool Middelburg, in Mpumalanga.

The team mixes talents from top rugby schools, including Helpmekaar, Noordheuwel, and Jeppe. 

The team will enjoy a solid foundation with Jeppe High School for Boys’ loosehead prop André Poulton and Helpmekaar Kollege’s tight-head prop Dylan Engelbrecht, both of whom played in the 2024 edition in Krugersdorp, manning the front row. 

Helpmekaar with seven players in the squad, leads the way. Their contingent includes, among others, flank Eugene de Lange, fullback Ty Ax, Liam Devenier, Zian Smit, and the twins, Shaye and Ethan Lourens.

Noordheuwel and Jeppe each have six players in the lineup, which is reflection on the consistent performances both schools have delivered this season. 

The starting lineup includes several standout combinations. In the backline, Jeandré Uithaler (Noordheuwel) and Shaye Lourens will form the crucial halfback partnership. Ethan Lourens and Jeppe’s Lindelani Nkanbule will provide strength and speed in the midfield, while Joel Akilo (Jeppe) and Aiden Bester (Noordheuwel) provide finishing flair on the wings. 

In the pack, King Edward VII‘s (KES) Chinedu Amadi anchors the loose trio at number eight, supported by De Lange (Helpmekaar) and Sam Bruwer (KES). Monument‘s Vincent Robberts provides a physical presence at lock, with Clinton Agu (Noordheuwel) handling the hooker’s duties. 

The Lions bench features Jeppe’s hooker Ayanda Funeka, loosehead prop Liam Devenier (Helpmekaar), Frank van der Merwe (KES), Helpmekaar’s eighthman Zian Smit, Armand van Eck (Noordheuwel), Talent Sithole (Jeppe), inside centre Phano Letsie (Jeppe), and Tidi Moeketsane (Noordheuwel) – a group selected for their versatility and impact potential.

The Golden Lions also named a competitive squad for the forthcoming u18 Academy Week, which will also be played at Hoërskool Middelburg.

KES has four players in the squad, while Northcliff, Jeppe High School for Boys, Hoërskool Monument, and Hoërskool Noordheuwel provide three players each. Parktown had two players selected, while the lineup includes one each from Helpmekaar, St John’s College, St Stithians College, and Marais Viljoen.

At the back, Northcliff’s Matthew Hunt is flanked by right-wing Ndimphiwe Mjiji (Jeppe) and left-wing Ruan Genis, from Monument. Sicelo Sakawuli (St Stithians) partners Sam Smith (KES) in the midfield, offering a balanced mix of pace and physicality. Monument’s flyhalf, Jayden Viljoen, links up with Noordheuwel’s scrumhalf, Gideon Diedericks, to drive the game plan. 

The forward pack features Rio Tshimbalanga, from Marais Viljoen, who anchors the back row, supported by Jeppe’s Grady Ngui and Noordheuwel’s Andrew Lambert on the flanks.

Michael Bownes (KES) and Michael Nwogwugwu (Northcliff) will form a strong second-row partnership, while Awulani Ndlovu (Jeppe), Juandré van der Merwe (Helpmekaar), and Stefan Bezuidenhout (Noordheuwel) pack down in the front row.

Parktown Boys’ High’s Lethoko Mallane and Manual Motsi feature among the replacements, alongside Regan McGurk and Indibable Mboniswa from KES, St John’s College’s Mako Mandizha, Monument’’s Ryno van der Westuizen, and Jeppe’s Glodi Tshimpaka. McGurk represented the Lions at the Craven Week last year. 

The Golden Lions have also confirmed a promising 23-man squad to represent them at the FNB u16 Grant Khomo Week, to be played at St Alban’s College, in Pretoria, from 29 June to 4 July.  

Leading the school representation are Monument and KES, with six players each, followed closely by Noordheuwel (4), Jeppe (3), and Parktown (2). Northcliff and Helpmekaar each contribute one player to round off a well-balanced squad. 

Monument’s Ray Nathan van Coller will wear the No. 15 jersey, while wings Russel Mgiba (KES) and Prosper Mbandlwa (Jeppe) add speed and agility. The Lions will field a midfield pairing of Asa Mgwatyu, from KES, and Monument’s Blessing Monareng, with Jeppe’s Ndzalama Mbhalati and Pierre Crofton (KES) as halfbacks. 

Up front, Monument players dominate the pack, with Luan Coetzee, Roché Botha, Keegan McCarthy, and Hanco van Geelen in the lineup. Iglesias Bruiners (Noordheuwel) brings accuracy at the line-out and aggression at the breakdown. The loose trio features Aiden Harty (Noordheuwel), Diederick Kleyn (KES), and McCarthy. 

The bench brings features players who can deliver impact and versatility. Andries van der Merwe (KES) and Jordan Venter (Northcliff) bolster the front row, while Rick van den Berg and Chrissandro Flemmer (Noordheuwel) offer second and back row cover.

Dewald du Preez (Helpmekaar) provides added grunt in the loose forwards. The backline reserves include Naledi Phiri (KES), Lethabo Malahlela, and Hlayisani Mbambo (both Parktown), giving the team tactical options in tight matches.

The teams: 

Craven Week: 15 Ty Ax (Helpmekaar), 14 Aiden Bester (Noordheuwel), 13 Lindelani Nkambule (Jeppe), 12a Ethan Lourens (Helpmekaar), 11 Joel Akilo (Jeppe), 10 Jeandré Uithaler (Noordheuwel), 9 Shaye Lourens (Helpmekaar), 8 Chinedu Amadi (KES), 7 Eugene de Lange (Helpmekaar), 6 Sam Bruwer (Kes), 5 Ethan Lourens (Noordheuwel), 4 Vincent Robberts (Monument), 3 Dylan Engelbrecht (Helpmekaar), 2 Clinton Agu (Noordheuwel), 1 André  Poulton (Jeppe). Replacements: 16 Ayanda Funeka (Jeppe), 17 Liam Devenier (Helpmekaar), 18 Frank van der Merwe (KES), 19 Zian Smit (Helpmekaar), 20 Armand van Eck (Noordheuwel), 21 Talent Sithoile (Jeppe), 22 Phano Letsie (Jeppe), 23 Tidi Moekesane (Noordheuwel). 

7 Helpmekaar | 6 Noordheuwel | 6 Jeppe High School for Boys’ | 3 King Edward VII | 1 Monument 

Academy Week: 15 Matthew Hunt (Northcliff), 14 Ndimphiwe Mjiji (Jeppe), 13 Sicelo Sakawuli (St Stithians), 12 Sam Smith (KES), 11 Ruan Genis (Monument), 10 Jayden Viljoen (Monument), 9 Gideon Diedericks (Noordheuwel), 8 Rio Tshimbalanga (Marais Viljoen), 7 Grady Ngui (Jeppe), 6 Andrew Lambert (Noordheuwel), 5 Michael Bownes (Kes), 4 Michael Nwogwugwu (Northcliff), 3 Awulani Ndlovu (Jeppe), 2 Juandre van der Merwe (Helpmekaar), 1 Stefan Bezuidenhout (Noordheuwel). Replacements: 16: Lethoko Mallane (Parktown), 17 Manuel Motsi (Parktown), 18 Mako Mandizha (St Johns), 19 Glodi Tshimpaka (Jeppe), 20 Mardoche (Northcliff), 21 Ryno van der Westhuizen (Monument), 22 Regan McGurk (KES), 23 Indibable Mboniswa (KES).

4 KES | 3 Northcliff | 3 Jeppe High School for Boys’ | 3 Monument | 3 Noordheuwel | 2 Parktown Boys’ High | 1 Helpmekaar | 1 St John’s College | 1 St Stithians College | 1 Marais Viljoen | 

Grant Khomo: 15 Ray Nathan van Coller (Monument), 14 Russel Mgiba (KES), 13 Asa Mgwatyu (KES), 12 Blessing Monareng (Monument), 11 Prosper Mbandlwa (Jeppe), 10 Ndzalama Mbhalati (Jeppe), 9 Pierre Crofton (KES), 8 Aiden Harty (Noordheuwel), 7 Diederick Kleyn (KES), 6 Keegan McCarthy (Monument), 5 Hanco van Geelen (Monument), 4 Roché Botha (Monument), 3 Mervedi Ndomba (Jeppe), 2 Iglesias Bruiners (Noordheuwel), 1 Luan Coetzee (Monument). Replacements: 16 Andries van der Merwe (KES), 17 Jordan Venter (Northcliff), 18 Rick van den Berg (Noordheuwel), 19 Naledi Phiri (KES), 20 Dewald du Preez (Helpmekaar), 21 Lethabo Malahlela (Parktown), 22 Chrissandro Flemmer (Noordheuwel), 23 Hlayisani Mbambo (Parktown). 

6 Monument | 6 King Edward VII | 4 Noordheuwel | 3 Jeppe High School for Boys’ | 2 Parktown Boys’ High | 1 Helpmekaar | 1 Northcliff

On Tuesday, Curro The Blyde Primary School was crowned the champion of the Football Association Pretoria Primary Schools (FAPPS) Challenge Cup following a 2-1 victory against Bronkhorstspruit Primary at Crawford International School in Pretoria.

In an exhilarating u11 football match on Tuesday afternoon, Curro The Blyde Primary School mounted a comeback to secure a 2–1 victory against Bronkhorstspruit Primary School.

The game, held at Crawford International School and commencing at 14:00, was overseen by the Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools (PMSS) coaching team, with coach Qiniso Thembani Mohlakwana from the PMSS coaching staff playing a crucial role.

Coach Maisha Raphela, who originally led the team to the finals, was unable to attend the final match – however, the team was in capable hands with coach Mohlakwana stepping in to guide them to the gold championship. Curro The Blyde is one of the schools participating in the Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools programme.

Bronkhorstspruit Primary took the lead early in the match, putting Curro The Blyde under pressure. Curro responded with assurance and resolve. Lukhotho Zwelinjani from Curro The Blyde equalised with a composed finish, leveling the score at 1–1.

Capitalising on this momentum, Kitso Molusi scored the decisive goal for Curro The Blyde, shifting the momentum and establishing the lead. The team then maintained their position with disciplined defending, preventing Bronkhorstspruit from scoring a second goal.

Both teams delivered an energetic performance, however, it was Curro The Blyde’s determination and collaboration that proved decisive. This victory reflects the team’s development under the guidance of the PMSS coaches and indicates a promising future for the young squad.

After the win, coach Mohlakwana spoke to SuperSport Schools Plus regarding his position at PMSS and expressed gratitude to Curro The Blyde for their faith in PMSS initiatives following the victory.

“I’m a coach dealing with Physical Education and extracurricular activities at PMSS,” he said.

Mohlakwana stated that coaching is a challenging profession and not suited for everyone. This implies that one can gain insights from various individuals, including coaches, or attempt to emulate the actions of their role models. However, without a genuine passion and affection for the role, it becomes difficult to endure, particularly when coaching at the youth development stage.

“I have gained a lot of experience in a short space of time dealing with kids at PMSS who are five to 13 years and it’s not easy but in order for the kids to develop properly ,you need to give it all,” he told SuperSport Schools Plus.

Coach Mohlakwana praised FAPPS for its contribution to youth football, noting that it has provided numerous children with the chance to engage in sports (soccer). They acquire skills to perform under pressure and understand the significance of striving for something that ultimately brings them joy.

“These kids are at the age where they are still developing even their life skills. They can socialise with others, start making friends, and understand teamwork. These are the most important things I’m always looking for from these kids, and today they have shown me growth,” he said with excitement.

After the victory, coach Mohlakwana shared that the young children were shedding tears of joy following the game. He also mentioned that this is their first trophy for the u11 Boys.

“When it comes to me and emotions, I put them aside and make sure these kids don’t see how I feel because I’m always there to make them happy and protect them in many ways.”

In conclusion, he praised the PMSS for their commendable efforts, as all of this is occurring due to their belief in youth development and in young coaches, for which he mentioned that they express their gratitude to PMSS.

Wandile Magebula, the Sports Coordinator at Curro The Blyde, expressed special gratitude towards Monique Daneel, the Executive Head of Curro The Blyde, for her role in facilitating the initiative to join the FAPPS League, which aims to foster the talents of young learners.

Western Province will arrive at this year’s FNB u18 Craven Week in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, once again as the favourites to be crowned unofficial champions.

This year will be the 60th edition of this prestigious tournament. It will be the third time it has been hosted in Middleburg. The previous two tournaments in Middleburg took place in 1978 and 2014.

Catch all the action live from SuperSport Schools (www.supersportschools.com).

Last year, Western Province extended their unbeaten run to 15 matches on the trot. Which also bettered the previous record (14) held by the union set back between 1970 and 1974.

Their victory in the main match last year against Free State (37-24) in Krugersdorp was their 15th victory in a row, as well as their fifth successive victory in the main match of the tournament.

The curve ball is that Western Province has never finished a Craven Week in Middleburg unbeaten. In 1978, they lost against Free State (9-23), and in 2014, they were beaten by South Western Districts (23-28).

The selectors have decided to pick Markus Muller (Paarl Gimnasium) at inside centre. Muller has been playing outside centre for his school this season. This allowed WP to place Randall-John Davids (Rondebosch Boys’ High) alongside Muller in the midfield. Muller made the SA Schools A-side last year.

Both of them started last year’s Craven Week in the Western Province XV-side, with Muller moving up after Kobus Blanckenberg got injured in their first match.

Other returning members from last year’s side are Joshua Neill (SA Schools), Jordan Jooste (SA Schools A), Quintin Potgieter and Matthew van der Merwe. Another five players, Briint Davids (SA Schools A), Altus Rabie, Jayden Joubert, Jayden Brits and Randall-John Davids, who represented the WP XV, will return for the main Western Province side.

Only four players who represented Western Province at the Academy Week last year – Jaythen Orange (Wynberg Boys’ High), Albert Lourens (Wynberg Boys’ High), Ismaeel Conrad (Rondebosch Boys’ High), and Morné Noble (Wynberg Boys’ High) will be making the upgrade to the Craven Week side.

Western Province will face their neighbours, Boland, in their opening match of the tournament. It will be the main match on the second day.

The teams: 

Craven Week: 15 Jadon Ocks (Boland Landbou), 14 Jeneal Davids (Paarl Boys’ High), 13 Randall-John Davids (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 12 Markus Muller (Paarl Gimnasium), 11 Albert Lourens (Wynberg Boys’ High), 10 Ethan van Biljon (Stellenberg), 9 Jayden Brits (Boland Landbou), 8 Quintin Potgieter (Paarl Gimnasium), 7 Joshua Neill (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 6 Briint Davids (Milnerton), 5 Jayden Joubert (Paarl Boys’ High), 4 Jaythen Orange (Wynberg Boys’ High), 3 Juan van der Merwe (Paarl Boys’ High), 2 Altus Rabie (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 1 Jordan Jooste (Paarl Boys’ High). Replacements: 16 Ismaeel Conrad (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 17 Bulela Mbala (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 18 Matthew van der Merwe (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 19 Juvan Burden (Stellenberg), 20 Gert Kemp (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 21 Morné Noble (Wynberg Boys’ High), 22 Achmat Berhardien (Wynberg Boys’ High), 23 Cole Moultrie (Paarl Boys’ High).

5 Paarl Boys’ High | 5 Rondebosch Boys’ High | 4 Wynberg Boys’ High | 2 Boland Landbou | 2 Paarl Gimnasium | 2 Stellenberg | 2 Paul Roos Gimnasium | 1 Milnerton

Craven Week XV: 15 Mark Grindlay (Paarl Boys’ High), 14 Jason Ocks (Boland Landbou), 13 Kunene Gadu (Wynberg Boys’ High), 12 Iwan Jordaan (Paarl Boys’ High), 11 David Kadima (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 10 Leighton Brinkhuis (Paarl Boys’ High), 9 Liam de Villiers (Paarl Boys’ High), 8 Siphesihle Mbungendlu (SACS), 7 Tjeripo Karuhumba (Wynberg Boys’ High), 6 Steph van der Merwe (Paarl Boys’ High), 5 Migael Turner (Paarl Gimnasium), 4 Gershom Pieters (Paarl Boys’ High), 3 Bernard du Toit (Paarl Boys’ High), 2 Tommy Muller (Paarl Boys’ High), 1 Pieta Cilliers (Paarl Gimnasium). Replacements: 16 Noah Gila (Wynberg Boys’ High), 17 Chadley Davids (Milnerton), 18 Lisa Coka (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 19 Bernhardt Schulze (Paarl Gimnasium), 20 Caleb Koeberg (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 21 Mickyle Booise (Paarl Gimnasium), 22 Tristan Joubert (Paarl Boys’ High), 23 TBC.

9 Paarl Boys’ High | 4 Paarl Gimnasium | 3 Wynberg Boys’ High | 2 Rondebosch Boys’ High | 1 Boland Landbou | 1 SACS | 1 Paul Roos Gimnasium | 1 Milnerton

Academy Week: 15 Ethan Williams (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 14 Ashley Grootboom (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 13 Matthew Kleyn (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 12 Harry Soboil (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 11 Shellvon Mabooi (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 10 Francois van der Merwe (Paarl Boys’ High), 9 Caleb Bell (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 8 Tandolwethu Sithole (SACS), 7 Luke Kent (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 6 Hendré van Zyl (Paarl Gimnasium), 5 Luphumlo Makholiso (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 4 Jean Dreyer (Paarl Gimnasium), 3 Gerrit van Vuuren (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 2 Sanfo Zangqa (SACS), 1 Zak Hickman (Paul Roos Gimnasium). Replacements: 16 Devine Ambrose (Milnerton), 17 Qawe Sawuka (SACS), 18 Qiraan Hermans (SACS), 19 Gabriel Alfred (Paarl Boys’ High), 20 Wege van Zyl (Paarl Boys’ High), 21 Liam de Silva (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 22 Tiaan Basson (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 23 Josh le Roux (Paarl Boys’ High).

8 Paul Roos Gimnasium | 4 Rondebosch Boys’ High | 4 Paarl Boys’ High | 4 SACS | 2 Paarl Gimnasium | 1 Milnerton

Michaelhouse heads into their final match of the season, a contest against Hilton College on Saturday morning at Hilton, eager to finish the season on a high note. The encounter will kick-off at 11:30.

This is the second time that the two sides are meeting this year. They were inseparable in their initial fixture earlier in the year, the fixture ended 1-1.

Hilton was one of the three teams that coach Nick Bérichon’s charges failed to conquer in a successful season. Michaelhouse registered 13 wins in 19 outings. They drew three and as many matches. Michaelhouse scored 47 goals, while their exemplary defence conceded only 29.

They put on a sterling performance in their penultimate fixture of the season. Gordon Deutscher flexed his goal-scoring skills in preparation for the upcoming SASHOC Inter-Provincial Tournament with a brace. His KZN Inland u18A teammate, Gregor van Mayer, showed that he is more than just a defender with a goal of his own.

Henry Love, Sithsaba Simukonda, and William Gilson also added a goal each as Michaelhouse romped to a 6-0 victory over Westville Boys’ High.

“I was really happy with our defensive effort. That set the foundation for us to launch attack after attack,” Bérichon told Supersport Schools Plus.

Michaelhouse’s wouldn’t have been so emphatic had it not been for Matthew Hunter’s heroics between the posts. The goalminder expertly repelled Westville’s threatening penalty corners and pulled off several saves on his way to a seventh clean sheet of the season.

Bérichon’s side looked well-drilled when they took set pieces, which allowed them a 50% short corner conversion rate. Three of their six goals came off penalty corners. The coach was pleased with his charges’ clinical approach to set pieces and is hopeful that his charges maintain that incisive edge against Hilton.

No team gets an easy fixture against Hilton. Coach Damian Kimfley‘s charges have been giving sides a good run for their money this season. They come into the contest eager to make amends following their 3-2 loss at the hands of Maritzburg College. Before that loss, they proved their credentials with an inspired 5-3 triumph over an in form Northwood outfit. Kimfley will be hopeful that his charges will rediscover their spark in front of goal, and make the trip to Michaelhouse worthwhile.

Hilton has six players in the KZN Inland u18A IPT squad and Kimfley will be looking to the quintet of Robert Burman, Jayden Roux, Xavier Enslin, Tadi Hove, Reagan Mudau, and Matthew Thomas to help tilt the contest in Hilton’s favour.

Both Michaelhouse and Hilton are on the hunt for bragging rights and that can only mean one thing for the spectator; the match will be a humdinger.

When the Northern Gauteng u18A girls’ team arrived at last year’s SASHOC National Week in Bloemfontein, few expected them to make waves. 

They were not considered to be among the favourites. They were overlooked, and perhaps that “underdogs” tag played to their advantage.

Under the guidance of coaches Sinoxolo “Essex” Mbekeni and Suzanne Strydom, the highveld outfit surprised and edged out KZN Inland A 3-2 on penalties to secure a place in the final.

They faced off against their cross-Jukskei rivals Southern Gauteng A in the title-deciding clash. A fiercely contested match finished 2-2, but Southerns claimed the title 4-3 on penalties. 

Northerns just missed out on gold, but they made their mark during that campaign. Now, in 2025, they’ll be aiming to go one step further.

This year’s tournament will be hosted at St Anne’s DSG, in Hilton, and runs from 30 June to 5 July.

There will be continuity on the leadership front, with coach Essex returning. He’ll be assisted by Kriekie Van Wyk.

The 16-strong squad includes players from Curro Hazeldean, Hoërskool Garsfontein, Waterkloof, Menlopark, Affies Meisieskool, Pretoria High School for Girls, CBC Mount Edmund, and Midstream College.

It is, though, a new-look team, with only Andrea Groenewald and Okuhle Ntshaba remaining from the 2024 lineup. Despite having to work with a much younger side, coach Mbekeni said he’s excited to see what his girls can produce.

“It’s very exciting to be coaching the Northerns u18A girls’ side again,” he told SuperSport Schools Plus.

“It’s always a great challenge to compete at a national level.  It’s a very different side to last year, but it’s always exciting to work with different players and try to get the best out of them.”

Schoolgirls’ hockey in Pretoria has gone from strength to strength in recent seasons, making selection for national tournaments more challenging.

While trying to pick the best possible side, the selectors have looked at combinations, strengths, and the X-factor. Essex feels the Northerns’ squad possesses a good blend of those traits.

“Selection is always difficult for Northerns,” he acknowledged. “We are blessed to have very good players across the region and a wide variety to choose from, and it’s always tough. However, I feel we’re rewarding players that have done well throughout the year.”

Reflecting on narrowly missing out on gold in 2024 in Bloemfontein, coach Essex admitted coming so close only to be tripped up at the final hurdle after a penalty shootout still hurts. This year, though, he recognises the challenge will be different. 

“It’s still a bitter pill for us to swallow,” he said, “but this is a new year and a different tournament.

“We first need to work on qualifying for the semi-finals before looking at the final or winning the tournament.”

Northerns will aim to emulate their free-flowing playing style from 2024. They’ll be captained by Mia Pretorius, who will be assisted by Andrea Groenewald and Lisa-Marie Grey.

They kick off their campaign against Border A on Monday, 30 June, at 13:10.

Northern Gauteng u18A Team

Amogelang Motlatle (Curro Hazeldean), Andrea Groenewald (Hoërskool Garsfontein), Anouk du Plessis (Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Pretoria), Beracah Mosaka (CBC Mount Edmund), Bontle Sejane (Hoërskool Waterkloof), Cameron Holworthy (Midstream College), Cara Bouwer (Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Pretoria), Hannah Zhou (Home schooled), Jana Seebach (Hoërskool Garsfontein), Lisa Marie Grey (Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Pretoria), Mia Pretorius (Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Pretoria), Moya Reinach (Hoërskool Garsfontein), Okuhle Ntshaba (Curro Hazeldean), Onthatile Khoza (Curro Hazeldean), Thato-ya-Ona Dimpe (Pretoria High School for Girls), Zoe Badenhorst (Hoërskool Menlopark).

POOL FIXTURES

Monday, 30 June

13:10 – Northern Gauteng A vs Border A

Tuesday, 1 July

08:55 – Northern Gauteng A vs Western Province B
17:25 – Northern Gauteng A vs Western Province A

Wednesday, 2 July

13:10 – Northern Gauteng A vs KZN Coastal A

Thursday, 3 July

07:30 – Northern Gauteng A vs KZN Inland A

Following the Proteas‘ ICC World Test Championship victory against Australia by five wickets at Lord’s Cricket Ground, in London, we take a look at the victorious South African side and the schools the players attended.

From the iconic Pretoria Boys High to the prestigious St Stithians College, the squad shows how different parts of South Africa have shaped the stars of today.

The majority of the Proteas’ squad played in the Khaya Majola Cricket Week, an annual tournament that features the top young cricketers from across the country.

Of the players who were part of the squad, Temba Bavuma and Keshav Maharaj are the oldest at 35 years of age.

The Proteas’ test and ODI captain played for St David’s Marist Inanda and featured in the 2008 Khaya Majola Cricket Week in Port Elizabeth, while Keshav Maharaj came through Northwood and played in the 2006/07 tournaments.

Johannesburg’s St Stithians College produced the most players in the squad, with three representatives. Kagiso Rabada and Ryan Rickelton, who played in the 2013 Khaya Majola Week, and Wiaan Mulder, who featured in the 2016 edition in Bloemfontein.

Wynberg Boys’ High, in Cape Town, is represented by David Bedingham, who was part of the 2011 team, and Kyle Verrynne, who followed three years later.

Potchefstroom Gymnasium‘s Marco Jansen is the only player from the North-West Province. He featured in the 2018/19 tournaments before debuting for the national team in January 2021 in a test series against Pakistan. Lungi Ngidi, who starred for Hilton College, played in the Khaya Majola Week in 2013.

Aiden Markram, however, didn’t follow the traditional route of playing in the tournament. While he never played in the Khaya Majola Week, he captained the South Africa u19 team that won the 2014 ICC u19 Cricket World Cup. That side also includes Kagiso Rabada. Markram’s captaincy continues as the Proteas’ skipper in Twenty20 International cricket.

Tristan Stubbs represented one of South Africa’s traditional school cricket powerhouses, Grey High in the 2017 Khaya Majola Week.

The Protea Squad and their schools 

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Die Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool het sy titel as kampioen van die DStv Schools Challenge in Gauteng behou. Die span van Pretoria het vir Menlopark in die eindstryd van die toernooi met 24-19 verslaan.

Kyk weer na al die aksie op SuperSport Schools (www.supersportschools.com).

Affies se kaptein, Kristi Koekemoer, asook Arette Burger, het deurgans uitstaande spel vir die kampioene gelewer.

Die eerste twee kwarte teen Parkies was ‘n titaniese stryd met Affies wat na die eerste kwart ‘n voorsprong van 6-5 geniet het. Die span het sy voorsprong van 12-10 teen halftyd gerek.

Vir die Parkies het Minette Boshoff, Mila Stander en Lisa van Vuuren blink vertonings in die eindstryd opgedis.

Affies het hul plek in die eindstryd met ‘n sege van 30-13 in die halfeindronde oor Rand Park High bespreek. Rand Park was die verrassing van die toernooi.

Die span van Johannesburg het met sy vierdie plek vir homself ‘n plek in die nasionale eindronde van die DStv Schools Challenge bespreek. Menlopark het tot die eindstryd danksy ‘n sege van 22-17 oor Noordheuwel deurgedring. Die Nories sal ook later vanjaar aan die nasionale toernooi deelneem.

Rand Park het beslis die verrassing van die dag gelewer met hul aanhoudende vasbyt en slim spel — ‘n besonderse hoogtepunt was sy 21-20 sege oor Montana, en sy wen oor Monument wat vir hulle ‘n plek in die halfeindstryd teen die magtige Affies besorg het.

Al het hulle nie deurgedring na die eindstryd nie, het hulle met hul vierde plek bewys dat hulle onder die voorste spanne in Gauteng tel.

Helpmekaar Kollege van Johannesburg het met ‘n vyfde plek net uitgemis om tot die volgende ronde deur te dring. Die span van die Goudstad se nederlaag teen Menlopark (19-21) in die kwarteindronde het teen ‘n duur prys gekom.

Vir Hoërskool Garsfontein sal sy afrigter, Carin Strauss, voel dat dit ‘n geval was van so naby maar tog so ver. Die Garsies moes op die ou einde met die sewende posisie tevrede wees, maar het twee van hul belangrike uitspeelwedstryde met net ‘n enkele doel verloor.

Hulle het teen Rand Park High in die kwarteindronde met 28-29 die knie gebuig en daarna ook teen Oos-Moot in ‘n belangrike uitspeelwedstryd met 23-24 verloor.

In die Ubuntu-been van die kompetisie het Tswelopele met die titel as Gauteng-kampioen weggestap. Tswelopele het vir Diepdale met 28-26 in ‘n spannende eindstryd verslaan. Drie spanne van dié been sal later vanjaar aan die nasionale eindronde deelneem.

Daar het geen twyfel bestaan wie die derde beste span in die been was na Kgetsiyatsie vir Ennerdale met 36-4 die loef in die uitspeelwedstryd vir die posisie afgesteek het nie.

Finale Ranglys — DStv Schools Challenge: 

1. Affies; 2. Menlopark; 3. Noordheuwel; 4. Rand Park High; 5. Helpmekaar; 6. Oos-Moot; 7. Garsfontein; 8. Redhill; 9. Monument; 10. Montana; 11. St Mary’s Waverley; 12. Transvalia; 13. Kempton Park; 14. Florida; 15. Edenvale; 16. Hoërskool Randburg; 17. Marais Viljoen; 18. Dinamika; 19. Heidelberg Volkskool.

Die 2025-weergawe van die DStv Schools Challenge het weereens bevestig: Gauteng se netbal is nie net ‘n spel nie — dit is ‘n vertoonvenster van talent, deursettingsvermoë en ongekende passie. Die voorste spanne het hul plekke verdien, dit gaan interessant wees om te sien wie top gaan eindig by die SA’s.

Al die uitslae: 

Groep A: Montana 48, Shoshunguve 3; Rand Park 25, Marais Viljoen 21; Rand Park 21, Montana 20; Marais Viljoen 56, Shoshunguve 0; Rand Park 43, Shoshunguve 3; Montana 26, Marais Viljoen 19.

Groep B: Menlopark 20, Monument 18; Dinamika 28, Kgetsiyatsie 10; Menlopark 27, Dinamika 19; Monument 44, Kgetsiyatsie 5; Monument 27, Dinamika 15; Menlopark 55, Kgetsiyatsie 7.

Groep C: Garsfontein 37, Diepdale 14; Garsfontein 31, Randburg 18; Randburg 31, Diepdale 20.

Groep D: Helpmekaar 43, Phahama 1; Helpmekaar 38, Edenvale 18;  Edenval 30, Phahama 7.

Groep E: Affies 20, St Mary’s Waverley 9; Affies 53, Khutlo-Taro 1; St Mary’s Waverley 30, Khutlo-Taro 4.

Groep F: Transvalia 40, Tswelopele 11; Noordheuwel 53, Tswelopele 3; Noordheuwel 28, Transvalia 18.

Groep G: Florida 48, Ennerdale 3; Kempton Park 21, Florida 15; Kempton Park 56, Ennerdale 2.

Groep H: Heidelberg Volkskool 21, Oos-Moot 16; Oos-Moot 26, Redhill 25; Redhill 24, Heidelberg Volkskool 12.

UITSPEELWEDSTRYDE 

Botho: Rand Park 24, Monument 17; Menlopark 30, Randburg 14; Garsfontein 33, Edenvale 26; Helpmekaar 28, St Mary’s Waverley 7; Affies 33, Transvalia 12; Noordheuwel 32, Florida 10; Oos-Moot 23, Kempton Park 12; Redhill 28, Montana 28; Marais Viljoen 25, Dinamika 19; Edenval 25, Monument 21; St Mary’s Waverley 20, Randburg 13; Transvalia 23, Kempton Park v18; Montana 23, Florida 14; Marais Viljoen 22, Heidelberg Volkskool 17; Monument 27, Transvalia 23; Montana 28, St Mary’s Waverley 19; Kempton Park 33, Edenvale 19; Florida 17, Randburg 13; Dinamika 21, Heidelberg Volkskool 20.

Ubuntu: Shoshunguve 12, Ratanda 10.

KWARTEINDSTRYDE 

Botho: Affies 28, Oos-Moot 12; Rand Park 29, Garsfontein 28; Menlopark 21, Helpmekaar 19; Noordheuwel 22, Redhill 20.

Ubuntu: Diepdale 23, Phahama 17; Tswelopele 40, Ratanda 1; Kgetsiyatsie 26, Shoshunguve 4.

HALFEINDSTRYDE 

Botho: Menlopark 22, Noordheuwel 17; Affies 30, Rand Park 13.

Ubuntu: Tswelopele 34, Kgetsiyatsie 17; Diepdale , Ennerdale .

UITSPEELWEDSTRYDE 

Botho – 3/4: Noordheuwel 20, Rand Park 17; 5/6: Helpmekaar 26, Oos-Moot 15; 7/8: Garsfontein 28, Redhill 21; 9/10: Monument 19, Montana 13; 11/12: St Mary’s Waverley 23, Transvalia 17; 13/14: Kempton Park 17, Florida 9; 15/16: Edenvale 28, Randburg 21.

Ubuntu – 3/4: Kgetsiyatsie 36, Ennerdale 4; 5/6: Phahama 19, Ratanda 7.

EINDSTRYDE 

Botho: Affies 24, Menlopark 19.

Ubuntu: Tswelopele 28, Diepdale 26.

Ready, Set, Go!

The countdown is on for the 2025 edition of the u18 SASHOC National Week in Pietermaritzburg.

The tournament commences on Monday, 30 June, with the final scheduled for Saturday, 5 July.

The A-Section boys’ matches will be played at Maritzburg College‘s Pape’s AstroTurf, with the B-Section being hosted at Epworth School.

Last year, Western Province A reigned supreme and ended the week unbeaten after defeating Boland u18A 3-2 in the final.

It’s going to be highly competitive, and while Western Province might be favoured to repeat as champions, there are plenty of challengers who could spring a surprise. The battle for medals is going to be intense.

The action from day one will be LIVE on SuperSport Schools and on DStv Channel 216.

You can also follow the action here on SuperSport Schools Plus

Below are the squads for the u18 boys’ teams playing in the A-section.

Note: Changes will be made if any teams need to be updated.

Boland u18A

Adam Lietch (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Bukhosi Mapete (Worcester Gimnasium), Callum van Oudtshoorn (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Christo Swanepoel (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Danesh Titus (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Jeandre Cilliers (Paul Roos Gimnasium), John Coetzee (Paarl Gimnasium), Logan Lackay (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Luca Jordaan (Parel Vallei High School). Luka Meets (Parel Vallei High School), Matthew Cardoza (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Milani Tisana (Paarl Boys’ High), Philip Barnard (Paarl Gimnasium), Reuben Gouws (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Seth Paterson (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Tylor Carter (Paul Roos Gimnasium).

Boland u18B 

AJ Mostert (Paarl Boys’ High), Caleb de Lange (Worcester Gimnasium), Christian Vusindawa (Curro Hermanus), Daniel Overmeyer (Charlie Hofmeyr), Da-Niell Willemse (Paarl Boys’ High), Heymish Zyster (Hugenote), Iminathi Makatshu (Parel Vallei High School), Joe Van Coller (Paarl Gimnasium), Johen Pietersen (Hoërskool Dirkie Uys), Keagan Murphy (Somerset College), Martin de Bruyn (Paarl Boys’ High), Noah Hendricks (Hoërskool Swartland), Rico Esterhuyse (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Rikus de Kock (Paarl Gimnasium), Ryan van der Merwe (Paarl Gimnasium), Stefan Wiehahn (Paarl Gimnasium).

Western Province u18A

Aiden Hughes (SACS), Aiden Topper (El Shaddai Christian School), Daniel Fisher (Rondebosch Boys’ High), Ethan Daniels (Wynberg Boys’ High), Ethan October (SACS), Jo le Roux (SACS), Joe Gitlin (Reddam House Constantia), Joshua Beattie (Rondebosch Boys’ High), Litha Kraai (SACS), Luc Dicey (Bishops), Matthew Lassen (SACS), Mohlodi Maseko (SACS), Reece Theunis (SACS), Thomas Gordon (Rondebosch Boys’ High), Zach Gibbon (Wynberg Boys’ High), Zach Redfern (SACS).

Western Province u18B 

Milani Bekaphi (Langa Hockey Club), Loyiso Mnani (Langa Hockey Club), Aadam Thompson (SACS), Armand Basson (Curro Durbanville), Cameron Cordeiro (SACS), Cameron Groves (SACS), Chad Julius (Wynberg Boys’ High). Charlie Naylor (Reddam House Constantia), Chavez Sanger (SACS), Daniel Graser (SACS), Daniel Rightford (Wynberg Boys’ High), Hayden Stellenberg (Stellenberg High School), Jacques van Dyk (Stellenberg High School), Litha Mbiko (Bishops), Ryan Groenewald (Fairmont High School), Zach Alexander (Wynberg Boys’ High).

Southern Free State u18A 

Sayur Pillay (Grey College), Raphael Kambanis (Grey College), Andrew Koupis (Grey College), Tshepang Machepa (St Andrew’s School), Matthias Visser (Grey College), Kananelo Mathe (Grey College), Aobakwe Phengu (St Andrew’s School), Waren Legaiwa (Grey College), Gianni Tyropolis (Grey College), Waldo Konig (Grey College), Nkhahle Sematlane (St Andrew’s School), Luke Visser (Grey College), Neilandro Van Schalkwyk (Grey College), Gurshwin Matebesi (Jim Fouché), Cobus Van Wyk (Fichardtpark), Henry Kruger (Grey College).

Northern Gauteng u18A

Owen McMennamin (Pretoria Boys’ High), Luken Brunette (Hoërskool Garsfontein), Kabo Mulaudzi (Pretoria Boys High School), Junior Moloisane (Pretoria Boys High School), Liam Brooker (Pretoria Boys’ High), Tuduetso Monnanyana (Cornwall Hill), Johan Pieterse (Affies), Duardt Tollig (Hoerskool Garsfontein), Rorisang Boshomane (Pretoria Boys High), Wium van Niekerk (Affies), Tyler Trower (CBC Mount Emund), Mwela Mutale (Pretoria Boys High School), Clayton Koorbanally (St Alban’s College), Amand van der Vyfer (Hoërskool Garsfontein), Andrea Clerihew (Hoërskool Garsfontein), Lesego Msiza (Hoërskool Garsfontein).

Southern Gauteng u18A

Aidan Blatch (St Stithians College), Benjamin Simon (King Edward VII), Cole Stanbury (Jeppe High School for Boys), Ethan Kapanda (Jeppe High School for Boys), Ezray Stadt (Jeppe High School for Boys), Jack Hodson (King Edward VII), Jared Beilings (St David’s Marist Inanda), Juan Martin (Jeppe High School for Boys), Khanyisa Kraai (Parktown Boys’ High), Khotso Mabona (St David’s Marist Inanda), Matteo Stipcevich (St David’s Marist Inanda), Matthew McKenzie (Jeppe High School for Boys), Ndyebo Pongwana (Parktown Boys’ High), Owethu Sishuba (St John’s College), Reece Green (Monument), Zeyad Davids (Parktown Boys’ High).

Southern Gauteng u18B

Joshua Smith (St Stithians College), Rayhaan Thokan (Parktown Boys’ High), Michael Candy (King Edward VII), Jarryd Gordon-Watt (Jeppe High School for Boys), Jay-Dee Carolus (Krugersdior High School), Andrew Arouca (King Edward VII), Zieg Roos (King Edward VII), Oratile Mohajane (Parktown Boys’ High), Siyanda Mzizi (King Edward VII), Raphael Madzivadondo (Jeppe High School for Boys), Jordache Arnold (King Edward VII), Matthew Lea (Dainfern College), Conrad Koen (Trinity House Randpark), Kenrick Duncan (Trinity House Randpark), Zachary Klein (King Edward VII), Elethu Bam (Parktown Boys’ High).

KZN Inland u18A

Robert Burman (Hilton College), Gordon Deutscher (Michaelhouse), Xavier Enslin (Hilton College), Lynton Fitz (Maritzburg College), Ben Heuer (Michaelhouse), Tadi Hove (Hilton College), Dane Jackson (Maritzburg College), Kadin Jenkins (Maritzburg College), Andile Lembethe (Maritzburg College), Reagan Mudau (Hilton College), Viwe Ndlovu (Maritzburg College), Jayden Roux (Hilton College), Siwe Sithembu (Maritzburg College), Matthew Thomas (Hilton College), Gregor von Mayer (Michaelhouse), Thandanani Zuma (Michaelhouse).

KZN Coastal u18A

Ben Loxton (Northwood School), Ethan James (Westville Boys’ High), Nicolas Ackerman (Westville Boys’ High), Misbah Nair (Westville Boys’ High), Seth Simpson (Westville Boys’ High), Bhavesh Naicker (DHS), Bonga Maphanga (DHS), Christopher Abrahams (DHS), Georg Wolhuter (Clifton College), Joshua Mungherera (DHS), Joshua van Biljon (DHS), Kyle White (Northwood School), Luke Allen (Northwood School), Sithsaba Siyoyo (DHS), Tyrique Cloete (DHS), Zac Williamson (Clifton College).

KZN Coastal u18B

Bo Mokoena (Westville Boys’ High), Cyrus Hendricks (Reddam House Umhlanga), Nicholas Murugan (Northwood School), Ethan Schilz (Northwood School), Taylon Goodwin (Northwood School), Jadin Bramwell (DHS), Joel Steyn (Kearsney College), Jonty Wiggett (Kearsney College), Keegan de Jager (Kearsney College), Krian Jugoo (Glenwood High School), Lungani Ngcobo (DHS), Oyinthando Ngejane (DHS), Qhama Dyakopu (Glenwood High School), Tim Saulez (Clifton College), Tye Milne (Ashton International College), Tyhil Naidoo (Westville Boys’ High).

Eastern Province u18A

Kaino Broadhurst (Grey High School), Ameer Muller (Grey High School), Matthew Allibone (Grey High School), Liam Poole (Grey High School), Logan Goddard-Ford (Grey High School), Dale Jennings (Grey High School), Athi Voigt (Grey High School), Luke Tait (Grey High School), Keegan Le Roux (Grey High School), Jordyn Billie (Grey High School), Ethan Moothoo (Woodridge College), Tristan Botha (Alexander Road High School), Greg Rodwell (St Andrew’s College), Seth Groener (Westering High School), Samuel Schekter (St Andrew’s College), Anthwone April (Pearson High School).

After four days of competitive basketball, the Jozi Stars were crowned the boys’ champions of the Soweto Basketball Uprising Tournament, on Monday, while the Soweto Basketball Academy claimed the girls’ title.

The Jozi Stars maintained an unbeaten streak throughout the tournament, putting together a clean record in their pool matches before advancing through the playoffs to the final, after a 68-48 win over Wolves in the semi-finals.

The final, against the Soweto Basketball Academy, was a captivating contest, which went down to the wire, with the Jozi Stars capturing a nail-biting 53-51 win to lay claim to the silverware.

Played on Youth Day, in Soweto, the finals honoured the country’s youth who played a significant role in overturning apartheid, with the Soweto Uprising, in 1976, being one of the pivotal moments in that battle.

It was a tough end to the tournament for the hosts, the Soweto Basketball Academy, who had enjoyed an impressive run, going undefeated in their pool games, before winning through to the final.

In the semifinals, they took down last year’s champions, the Montana Vikings, recording a convincing 67-53 win in a rematch of the 2024 title game.

Unfortunately for the home team, for the second year in succession, they had to settle for second.

While the Soweto Basketball Academy boys’ team was stopped at the final hurdle, there was much to celebrate for the girls’ team, which emphatically defeated Alexandra Basketball Club 59-38 to go back-to-back as the champions of the Soweto Uprising Tournament.

Before they met for the title, the hosts handed Wolves a 58-26 loss in the semi-finals, while the Alexandra Basketball Club cruised to a 62-34 win over Rand Tutorial.

After the finals had concluded, the Soweto Basketball Academy honoured Charles Saunders and George Makena, presenting them with Lifetime Achievement Awards, which recognised their exceptional contributions to South African basketball.

“Their legacy has paved the way for many. We honour and appreciate their dedication and contributions,” the Soweto Basketball Academy said in a statement.

Results 

Boys Semifinals

Soweto Basketball Academy 67-53 Montana Vikings
Jozi Stars Stars 68-48 Wolves

Girls Semifinals 

Soweto Basketball Academy 58-26 Wolves
Alexandra Basketball Club 64-32 Rand Tutorial

Girls Final

Soweto Basketball Academy 59-38 Alexandra Basketball Club

Boys Final 

Jozi Stars 53-51 Soweto Basketball Academy

South African Schools and SA u18 fullback Zekhethelo Siyaya stole the spotlight with a star turn as the Sharks‘ Craven Week side scored a hard-fought 32-29 victory over the Blue Bulls on Monday at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, in Durban.

Only two days earlier, Siyaya had helped Westville Boys’ High complete an unbeaten season with a comprehensive 50-20 victory at Michaelhouse, and he and some of his Westville teammates were to the fore as the home team held off the visitors for a three-point win.

It was the Blue Bulls who made it onto the scoreboard first, however, scoring in typical Blue Bulls’ fashion from a powerful rolling maul, set up by a lineout.

From about 10 metres out, they drove the ball up to the Sharks’ try line. Hooker Bauke Swart followed the churning legs in front of him well and was left with the simple task of falling over the line for a try.

Ruben Groenewald was wide of the mark with his conversion attempt, sending his kick just right of the posts. Five minutes had elapsed.

From the kick-off, a good kick chase from the Sharks pressured the Bulls into holding onto the ball on the ground inside their 22. Awarded a penalty, the home side opted for a kick to touch.

Just as the Bulls had done, the boys in black and white set a rolling maul in motion. It wasn’t as smooth as that of the visitors and went to ground, but lock Lian Terblanche picked up and with a mighty effort forced his way over for a five-pointer.

Jade-Will Koopman‘s conversion attempt struck the right upright and stayed out.

It didn’t take long for the Bulls to respond, and they struck again in the tenth minute. Flyhalf Groenewald launched a beautifully judged high kick towards the right touchline. It caught a couple of Sharks’ defenders in two minds but not right-wing Thabiso Simelane, who leapt high, snatched the ball out of the sky and had a clear run to behind the posts.

Groenewald tacked on two more points with the easy conversion and the Bulls were 12-5 to the good.

The Westville connection was on display when the Sharks hit back. Near the Blue Bulls’ 10-metre line, scrumhalf Liam Simpkins fed Zekhethelo Siyaya, ranging up on the blindside. He flung a long pass out to Jadrian Afrikaner on the left wing.

When he was met by the last defender, Afrikaner, with an almost telepathic understanding and exquisite touch, jabbed a grubber inside off his left foot. Siyaya, who was up in support, ran onto the ball, which sat up invitingly, and he gratefully accepted the invitation to race over for a superb try.

Jade-Will Koopman made the play worth seven points with a successful conversion kick, which levelled the scores at 12-12.

When the Bulls conceded a penalty on the halfway line in the 20th minute, the Sharks opted for a kick at posts. At that range, though, it was Siyaya and not Koopman who took the kick. He was bang on and the home team hit the front for the first time.

Shortly after that, it was the fullback, again, who led the charge as the Sharks added another try. He fielded a chip over the top in the right-hand corner of the hosts’ 22, spun away from the pursuing forwards and raced up the right touchline with Jade-Will Koopman on his shoulder.

When met by a defender, Siyaya, instead of passing to Koopman, chipped over the top and regathered to eliminate one player. That left him with only one more to beat. This time, he released Koopman from just outside the Blue Bulls’ half. The right-wing pinned his ears back and was over in the corner.

The conversion kick was wide, but the Sharks had opened up a 20-12 lead in the 24th minute.

From the kick-off, the Sharks were almost immediately back in business. A break by eighthman Jamie Wimble put Afrikaner away. He cut back inside, speeding into the visitors’ territory where the ball was smoothly moved through the hands, with Wimble again involved. The Bulls were in trouble, but a forward pass brought a flowing move to an end, and the men from Pretoria had time to catch their breath.

Siyaya, then, showed that he was fallible with a poor drop-out in the 32nd minute. The Bulls bashed it up for a couple of phases before letting the ball go down the backline, where the Sharks were caught somewhat disorganised.

A long looping pass from flyhalf Groenewald opened up space on the left flank for the Blue Bulls. They were almost over in the corner, but Junaid Steward was up in support on the inside, and he took the last pass to canter over and dot down beneath the uprights.

Groenewald landed the conversion and the Sharks led by a single point, 20-19. It appeared as if that would be the halftime score, but the hosts had other plans.

From inside their half, Siyaya started an attack and played a supporting runner into a gap. When the ball was passed to the right again, the Sharks had a two-on-one. William Ridl should probably have passed to Jade-Will Koopman, but he cut inside and was brought down. Still, he kept the ball alive.

Scrumhalf Simpkins changed direction and found Siyaya running onto the ball. He chipped it over the top. As two Blue Bulls’ defenders closed in, the fullback snatched the ball out of the air. Almost immediately, he dropped it onto his left foot and kicked ahead, taking the defenders out of the play. Hitting the gas, Siyaya chased down his kick, dived on the ball, and added another spectacular try to a long list of spectacular tries behind his name.

The conversion kick was from in front of the posts and Jade-Will Koopman slotted it to make it 27-19 at the break.

It was unlikely that the second half would produce the fireworks that the first half had provided, and, with the coaches ringing the changes, the magic man, Siyaya, was given a rest. It was, nonetheless, an enthralling battle.

It took the Blue Bulls eight minutes to strike, and they did so in familiar fashion: penalty, kick to touch, five-metre lineout, sound execution, and hooker Okhule Hini was driven over for a try. Groenewald, usually a reliable kicker, was wide of the mark again, and it was 27-24 in favour of coach Dusty Noble‘s charges.

In the 58th minute, the Bulls had another chance to execute the same tried and tested method, except this time their throw-in missed the jumper, and the Sharks snagged the ball and cleared.

Then, the home team pulled off a searing counterattack to add another try. It began with William Ridl catching a clearing kick on the right touchline, near halfway. He gave the ball inside to Jade-Will Koopman, who nudged the ball over the defensive line, into space. His touch was excellent, and the Sharks reclaimed possession.

Then, flyhalf Liyema Nela drew a tackler before finding Koopman on his outside as he was tackled to the ground. Koopman, in a distinctive red cap, dived over in the corner. After scoring, he took the conversion kick from the touchline. It was wide, but the Sharks had moved 32-24 clear.

Seven minutes remained, but it took until the final minute for the Blue Bulls to have the last say.

From a quick tap, just five metres out, they attacked to the left. “Proppie” van den Berg ploughed into the Sharks’ defence, and the ball came back quickly.

Again, it went left, but scrumhalf Zirk Meyer then reversed direction. He sniped but was driven back by two tacklers. Four times in succession, the Blue Bulls tried the pick and go. On the fifth occasion, they hit paydirt.

Eighthman Stefan McDonald was over, and flyhalf Ruben Groenewald had a conversion kick to reduce the deficit to one point. Time was up, though. His kicked was off target and the Sharks claimed a three-point win.

There was plenty of enterprise on display and no shortage of flair, but after going behind early on, fullback Zekhethelo Siyaya made his mark on the contest to lead the home team to victory.

Scorers

Sharks 32 (27) – Tries: Zekhethelo Siyaya (2), Jade-Will Koopman (2), Lian Terblanche. Conversions: Jade-Will Koopman (2). Penalty: Zekhethelo Siyaya; Blue Bulls 29 (17) – Tries: Bauke Swart, Thabiso Simelane, Junaid Steward, Okuhle Hini, Drewyn Baron Conversions: Ruben Groenewald (2).

Results

Sharks u18A 32-29 Blue Bulls u18A
Sharks u18 25-37 Blue Bulls CD
Sharks u17A 53-34 Blue Bulls u17A
Sharks u17 26-21 Blue Bulls u17
Sharks u16A 20-26 Blue Bulls u16A
Sharks u16B 31-12 Blue Bulls u16B
Sharks u15A 47-12 Blue Bulls u15A
Sharks u15B 5-36 Blue Bulls u15B