In a game that promised to be the comeback of the Western Province rugby team, they managed to defeat the SWD Eagles 30-8 in front of about 2 000 spectators. The half-time score was 22-3.
From the start, Province showed their intentions to run the ball when fullback Gio Aplon joined the back line and, within 20 seconds after kick-off, scored Province’s first of three tries. Naas Olivier, who was on target on the day, added the extra two points.
Ambrose Barends for the Eagles and Olivier both succeeded with penalties before Aplon once again proved why he is rated as one of the best attacking fullbacks when he cut through the defence for another five-pointer.
Unfortunately that was the end of the promised entertaining rugby and the spectators nearly went to sleep. Both sides made ample mistakes and, after two further Olivier penalties, the teams walked off for half-time.
The second half started with the Eagles putting their opponents under pressure and it came as no surprise when replacement wing Ricardo Pietersen scored the only try for the Eagles.
Accept for the kick-off after the try, Western Province had to play in their own half for the next 20 minutes. The Eagles forwards took control and only solid tackling kept the home side away from the visitors’ try line.
The game was decided among the forwards with the Eagles having the better of Province. From a penalty against the Eagles the visitors moved into the Eagles’ half of the field and from a ruck, winger Egon Seconds went over for Province’s third try. Olivier added the extra points.
It will be back to the drawing board for Province and new interim coach Gary Gould. Hard work awaits if he is going to turn this side into a Currie Cup contender. Their next game will be on Saturday against the Blue Bulls at Newlands.
The Eagles can be proud of their performance and they are going to be a hard team to beat in the first-division competition. — Sapa