The Border Bulldogs proved good value for money in their pre-season rugby friendly in East London at the Absa Stadium on Friday night, beating neighbours the Eastern Province Mighty Elephants 48-19.
The Bulldogs backline looked good and while they never always got it right, ran in some fine tries to help take a 27-13 half-time lead.
The visitors played their best rugby in the final 10 minutes of the first half and while their recycling of the ball and lineout work was good throughout, their backline was not nearly as organised. Their sole try came from dynamic fullback Justin Peach, who stole over from a penalty.
Even down to 13 men with two players yellow-carded, the Bulldogs were still able to score a pushover try when replacement tighthead prop Ross Geldenhuys powered over. — Sapa
Points scorers:
Bulldogs: Tries to left wing Ian Fihlani (2), prop Michael Coetzee, right wing Luvuyo Sogidashe, replacement prop Ross Geldenhuys and centre Fergus Kennedy. Flyhalf Reinhard Gerber two penalties, five conversions.
Mighty Elephants: Try to fullback Justin Peach. Peach four penalties, one conversion.