TOUGH CUSTOMER: Masiphumelele First Team captain, Richwen Warries, draws in the Silvertree defence, supported by eighth man, Ayabulela Nadyokwe
Image: Jan Engelbrecht
Kerryn Rehse
Masiphumelele Rugby Club kicked off their first home fixture of the season in spectacular style, sweeping Silvertree Rugby Club with three bonus-point wins in their Western Province City League fixture, at Noordhoek sports fields on Saturday, May 3
The day began with the third team setting the tone, delivering an open, running game that kept the crowd entertained. Their relentless attack and disciplined defence earned them a commanding 24-3 victory.
The second team followed with a slower start but quickly found their rhythm. Strong set-pieces and dominant scrums laid the platform, while a fearless backline kept Silvertree on the back foot.
With a solid 14-0 lead at halftime, the introduction of seasoned players off the bench ensured control as they closed out the match 28-5. Standout performer, Amyoli Lilawi earned man-of-the-match for his commanding display at eighth man.
But it was the first team that stole the show, debuting their new jerseys in front of an eager home crowd.
Masiphumelele wasted no time, scoring their first try within the first 20 seconds of the game, immediately putting Silvertree under pressure. By half-time, the scoreboard read 21-0, with Masiphumelele firmly in control.
The second half saw Masiphumelele turn up the heat as Silvertree struggled to keep pace. Fresh legs off the bench added momentum, with the home side running in try after try to seal an emphatic 60-7 win.
The victory, following three tough games on the road, lifts Masiphumelele to the top of the Western Province City League log — a perfect way to mark their first home fixture of the season.
Outside centre Manelisi Mbana dazzled with a hat-trick to claim man-of-the-match honours, while captain Richwen Warries led by example, rallying his side to finish strong.
Other standout performances came from Ayabulela Nadyokwe and JP Lieberman in the forwards, with Ndumiso Mhlanzi making an impact off the bench and scrumhalf Yamkela Mangxola adding two tries of his own.
Masiphumelele travel to Elsies River to take on Elsies River United on Saturday,May 10, with the next home game scheduled for Saturday May 24.
Kerryn Rehse is a member of Masiphumelele Rugby Club