Scrumhalf Bolla Conradie scored a hat-trick of tries for Western Province as they maintained their challenge for a home Currie Cup semifinal with a 70-13 thumping of the Eagles at Newlands on Friday.
Province scored nine tries in total, eight of which were converted by flyhalf Pieter Benade, who also succeeded with three penalties for a personal haul of 25 points.
It was an entirely one-sided match, dominated by WP from the outset. Their forwards, with lock Quinton Davids at the helm, gained momentum for the backs to play some champagne rugby.
Conradie was a constant menace and made several sniping breaks. Benade was also a crucial link, while there were delightful touches from Breyton Paulse, who scored two tries from the fullback position.
The match was wing Egon Seconds’ 50th for WP and he celebrated with his 50th career try. It was also WP’s fourth in the match in the 48th minute and brought up the bonus point.
Fullback Bevan Fortuin scored all the Eagles’ points, with a consolation try, conversion and two penalties. The Eagles were also responsible for their own demise with yellow cards incurred by No 8 Hendry Rheeders, loosehead prop Connie Botha and flank Riaan Thomas.
Province moved up to second place on the log with the victory to maintain the pressure on the Lions and Cheetahs in the race for second position that will ensure a crucial home semifinal.
However, the Lions will have the opportunity to seize back the initiative when they play the Blue Bulls on Saturday, while the Cheetahs are at home to the Sharks.
Scorers:
WP: Tries: Scrumhalf Bolla Conradie (3), centre Jean de Villiers, right wing Egon Seconds, flank David Hendricks, lock Quinton Davids, fullback Breyton Paulse (2). Conversions: Flyhalf Pieter Benade (8). Penalties: Benade (3).
Eagles: Try: Fullback Bevan Fortuin. Conversion: Fortuin. Penalties: Fullback Bevan Fortuin (2).
– Sapa