They scored some spectacular tries, but too many mistakes cost Eastern Province (EP) dearly at the U/18 Craven Week.
EP won one of their three matches at the week, which was held in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, last week.
They had a tough start against the strong Sharks outfit. The Sharks won 41-10, but EP competed much better than the final score might suggest.
In the first half, there wasn’t much between the two sides but the Sharks were quick to use their opportunities when EP made mistakes.
The second match was an East Cape Derby, and EP now has the bragging rights! They beat their provincial neighbour Border, 30-12, scoring three tries to two. Fly-half Tristan Kemp (Grey), added 15 points with his educated boot.
It was another tough assignment in the third and last match against the mighty Blue Bulls. EP started absolutely sensationally. Their accurate tactical kicking and creative back play stunned the Bulls.
With EP leading 17-0, it looked like a famous victory was on the way but the very physical Bulls came back strongly. EP lost momentum and was over-eager at times. This led to a lot of mistakes, handling errors and penalties. The Bulls won 76-24.
The player of the week for EP was Graeme College left wing, Lucritia Magau. He was always a factor on attack and did not shy away from his defensive tasks.
Luke Doyle (scrumhalf), Erin Nelson (centre, both Graeme College) and the Grey boys, Kemp and Meyer Prinsloo, were others in the backline who caught the eye with solid performances. Magau and Nelson were included in the South African Schools A squad.
The SA Schools squad and the SA Schools A team will do battle on Thursday in Middelburg. Kickoff is at 15:00.
These two teams were named at the conclusion of the U18 Craven Week.
The star forward for EP was the hardworking captain and eighth man, Pietman Kleinhans (Nico Malan). Damian le Roux (lock, Brandwag) and flanker, Joshua Mackenzie (Kingswood College), can also be happy with a good showing at the week.
EP started brilliantly at the U/18 Academy Week in Middelburg. EP beat the Sharks 39-33 in an entertaining opener.
This huge effort took a lot out of the boys, and they struggled in their next match. The Golden Lions, the best side at the Academy Week by far, won 56-10. The EP boys were back to their best in their last match when they scored some spectacular tries, beating Boland 45-24.
The SA LSEN team, consisting mostly of players from Bergsig in Kariega, also played in the Academy Week. They beat Border CD 16-10 and were unlucky not to have won their second match. Namibia won this exciting affair 34-29.
The Leopards beat the LSEN side 47-14 in their last match.
