Masi secures three well-earned victories

Patrick Nuthall

On Saturday, May 17, under skies better suited for beach umbrellas than rugby boots, Masiphumelele Rugby Club travelled to Cloetesville, Stellenbosch, and walked away with three well-earned victories over Blake’s Rugby Club.

The Third Team struck first, asserting dominance early through powerful scrums and structured set-pieces. Two first-half tries set the tone, with three more added after the break for a comprehensive 31–0 win.

The Second Team followed in a physical contest. Blake’s took an early 14–0 lead before Masiphumelele answered through flanker Inga Ngoloti, who scored twice–one from a sweeping move that began deep in their own half. A penalty by Dylan Malander gave Masiphumelele a narrow 15–14 lead before a clever kick from Xolani Mahlulo set up Amyoli Liwani for the clincher. Malander’s conversion sealed a 22–14 victory.

The First Team encounter was the day’s standout. Both sides began with crunching tackles and quick exchanges.

Ten minutes in, scrumhalf Yamkela Mangxola took a quick tap from a penalty and sent Siyabonga Mbali crashing over for the opening try.

Blake’s responded with two penalties to go 6–5 up, but Masiphumelele hit back with tries from Mangxola and flanker Ndumiso Mhlanzi both converted by Monwabo Totsini – to take a 19–9 half-time lead.

Despite early second-half penalties and a yellow card, Masiphumelele held firm. Manelisi Mbana, shifted from centre to wing, scored twice in quick succession. Mangxola added his second try late on, with Totsini’s boot extending the lead. Blake’s slotted a late penalty, but Masi’s 38–17 bonus-point win keeps them firmly in the race for a Top 9 finish.

Masiphumelele hosts Blue Jets this Saturday May 24, at Noordhoek sports fields. The first game kicks off at 1.30pm. 

Patrick Nuthall is a member of Masiphumelele Rugby Club