With the last game remaining until the league goes on a break, the U20’s wanted to end off the first half the season with a victory against Durbanville – Bellville. The match was played under Friday night lights at very cold DurBell. We played a warm up game against them before the season commenced and we knew they were going to be very physical and play with lots of speed and precision.
With the temperature reaching single digits, the game was finally under way. The U20’s struggled to get going in the early stages of the game as DurBell kept on applying the pressure deep in our half. An early set back for us as flanker Conre Breytenbach was forced to retire from the game due to an ankle injury.
Playing more in the DurBell half was needed and flyhalf Wynand Maclachlan used his kicking game brilliantly. The game was tightly contested and the home side were first to score a try. Uwe Geissler replied immediately when he out muscle the defense to score the first try for the U20’s.
Half time saw us in a 7-10 lead
During the half time huddle the coaches spoke about just keeping possession and playing the basics.
The U20’s forwards dominated all the set pieces. The forwards got about 3 tight heads and stole numerous lineout ball. Our backline were so precise in their execution of their set moves as they managed to break through the defensive line of DurBell countless times.
The centre combination of Stephan Botes and Ivan Kunz were on fire with the ball in hand as well as on defense.
With the match being on a balance the U20’s knew we had to score again as soon as possible to ensure we get the victory.
With about 10 minutes left in the game, Siegfried Weich, after numerous phases and some individual brilliance was able to score our second try. Durbanville – Bellville’s discipline started to deteriorate and the U20’s were awarded a penalty right in front of the sticks in which Wynand Maclachlan converted.
Full time score was 20 – 7 to Hamilton’s. Special mention must go to Nathan Meilhon, Ruan Stanissis, Rian Barnard and Malan Barnard who were all very influential in the victory.
We now have a 3 week break before getting back to training and we look ahead to some tough encounters coming up in the second half of the season.
Try scorers – Uwe Geissler and Seigfried Weich
Conversions – Wynand Maclachlan (2)
Penalties – Wynand Maclachlan