Masiphumelele Rugby Club secures Top 9 spot in Western Province Club Rugby

Masiphumelele Rugby Club capped off their round-robin campaign with a decisive showing on Saturday, June 14, securing a place in the Western Province Club Rugby Top 9. This milestone puts the club in strong contention for promotion to the Super C League, an achievement that reflects the growth and determination of the Pumas this season.

Playing at home at Noordhoek Sports Fields, Masi faced Young Ideas RFC from Langa under clear skies and dry conditions ideal for running rugby. All three sides emerged victorious, continuing the club’s impressive momentum.

The Third Team kicked off the day with a 64-20 win in a high-scoring, open contest. Despite the loose and scrappy nature of the game, Masi’s pace and flair proved too much for the visiting side.

The Second Team was awarded a 28-0 walkover victory after Young Ideas failed to field a side. While the points were welcome, the players were disappointed not to take to the field, especially after the weeks of preparation and building form.

The First Team match showed early signs that Masi had the upper hand. Despite a scrappy first half from both sides, Masi managed to put together enough attacking rhythm to lead 19-3 at the break. The crucial bonus point try came early in the second half, and from there, Masi’s dominance in the scrums gave them the platform to control the game.

Tries from Zollie Twani, Ndumiso Mhlanzi, Luigi Grootboom, Siyamathemba Keke, William Owen, and Anvil van Wyk, combined with five conversions from Jade Schoeman, sealed a 40-3 victory.

With this result, Masi now shifts its focus to the Top 9 round. 

• Patrick Nuthall is a member of Masiphumelele Rugby Club