Festival of Tag Rugby

RESS RELEASE:

SARU Tag Rugby Clinic

The outer field at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium was a hive of activity on Wednesday afternoon as 10 local Primary Schools from all over Port Elizabeth enjoyed a wind free afternoon playing Tag Rugby® against each other.

The event marked the 15th and final event in a year long programme run by the Tag Rugby® Association and supported by SARU and regional Rugby Unions to find a Primary School to represent every Rugby Union (including Limpopo Bulls) at the 3rd edition of the SARU Tag Rugby® U9 National Finals to be held on Sunday during the Cell C Sevens in Port Elizabeth.

“Every year an invitation is sent to every participating Sevens teams to join us and assist in sharing some of their Rugby skills with the young players. We had the Zimbabwe, Canadian, Fijian and our Blitsbokke spend time with the young players and their coaches today,” commented Jongi Mei (Tag Rugby® Association Youth Manager)

The standard of Tag Rugby was superb and all the International Sevens teams were amazed at the abundance of talent on display. The final of this clinic was a hotly contested  affair between Westering Primary School and Herbert Hurd (coached by Springbok Legend Fabian Juries).

Westering Pimary scored an equalizing try in the last 5 seconds of the final to take the game into extra time. The game then went to Golden try with still no winner. Finally after taking off a player from each team.

Westering scored a well worked try in the corner to become the 16th and final team to secure a place in the SARU Tag Rugby® U9 National Finals for 2014.

The next event in the Festival of Tag Rugby®  takes place on Saturday on the outer fields.

It is an adult Tag Rugby event starting at 08h30 and ending with an Aggreko  celebrity game featuring Springbok Sevens legend Mzwandile Stick, Fabian Juries, Marius Schoeman, Chris Dry and Steven Hunt, Lars Pols & Sjoerd Welcker (Int .Tri athletes, Holland), Dan Howzit (SA Triathlete), Dr Wayne Viljoen and Clint Readhead (SARU BOKSmart).

Kings pre-season training squad

The Eastern Province Kings have announced their pre-season training squad following their return to training after the Currie Cup, retaining a number of their current senior players as well as seeing a number of youngsters moving up from the junior Currie Cup competitions.

EP Rugby CEO, Charl Crous, said he was positive about the season ahead.

“We are looking forward to see what this squad can deliver in the upcoming Vodacom Cup, and it is especially exciting to see the quality of the talent coming through from our junior structures,” he said.

New signings include Mthetheleli “Tazz” Fuzani, the former Western Province lock, who returns to his home province, having been born in Uitenhage. Fuzani has signed with the Kings for two years.

Joining Fuzani is Western Province U21 flanker, Eital Bredenkamp – who captained the U21 side in the final against the U21 Blue Bulls side earlier this year – and lock Jan Uys, who captained the Western Province U19 side last year and played alongside Bredenkamp in the U21 competition this year.

Chief amongst the players who have renewed contracts with EP Rugby, include veteran CJ van der Linde, who has been instrumental in the improvement of the Kings scrum over the past season, as well as Tom Botha and Shaun McDonald who both received a two year extension.

Among those who have come up from the junior ranks include the powerful 21-year-old prop Enoch Mnyaka, who played for the Madibaz earlier this year, as well as Sphu Msutwana, Vukile Sofisa and Michael Bernardt. Kings Academy player, Armand du Preez jnr, measuring in at 2.05 meters, is also in the mix with utility back Marlou van Niekerk who has also returned to the squad after a lengthy absence.

Players who have left the squad include Devin Oosthuizen, BG Uys and Sergeal Petersen, who have moved to the Cheetahs, as well as Ntabeni Dukisa, who has moved to Griquas and Pieter Stemmet, who was loaned out to the Pumas earlier in the seaon.

Non renewals include Samora Fihlani, Ofentse Boloko, Tobie Botes, Kyle van Zyl, Dane van der Westhuizen and Lowabo Ntleki.

Kings training squad:

Props: Tom Botha, Charl du Plessis, Lizo Gqoboka, Simon Kerrod, Charles Marais, Enoch Mnyaka, Brenden Olivier, Vukile Sofisa, CJ van der Linde

Hookers: Albé de Swart, Martin Ferreira, Edgar Marutlulle, Michael van Vuuren

Locks: David Bulbring, Armand du Preez, Mthetheleli “Tazz” Fuzani, Cameron Lindsay, Darron Nell, Kuhle Sonkosi, Steven Sykes, Jan Uys

Loose Forwards: Tim Agaba, Thembelani Bholi, Eital Bredenkamp, Aidon Davis, Shaun McDonald, Paul Schoeman, Claude Tshidibi, Luke Watson, Stefan Willemse, Stephan Zaayman

Scrumhalves: Enrico Acker, Jaco Grobler, Kevin Luiters

Flyhalves: Hansie Graaff, Gary van Aswegen, George Whitehead, Marlou van Niekerk

Centres: Michael Bernardt, Shane Gates, Dwayne Jenner, Andile Jho, Tim Whitehead

Outside backs: Eben Barnard, Ronnie Cooke, Siyanda Grey, Siphumelele Msutwana, Paul Perez,  Siviwe Soyizwapi, Scott van Breda

Hard work pays off for U21s

The Eastern Province Kings, winners of Group B, played the bottom of Group A finishers, Border, in a promotion match for a spot in next year's Group A of the ABSA Under 21 Competition on Friday at the BCM Stadium in East London. 

After a slow first half the floodgates opened for the Kings in the second half as they scored 38 points, to add to their 26 from the first half. 

Border took an early lead after Devandre Sissing kicked a penalty 7 minutes into the game, Border leading 3 - 0. Sissing had an oppertunity to add a further 6 points, but failed with two penalties.  

The Kings only managed to score their first points on the 20th minute through an Aidon Davis try, Selvyn Davids converted to give his team a 7 - 3 lead. 

Davids converted his own try 5 minutes later as the Kings stretched their lead to 14 - 3. 

Sissing added another 3 points for Border, but it was quickly erased as CJ Velleman scored his teams third try. Davids added the extras as the Kings took a 21 - 6 lead with 5 minutes to half time. 

Border took every point on offer as Sissing added another three points, but Kings acted quickly as they crossed the line for another five pointer just before half time, this time through Malcolm Jaer. Davids was unsuccessful with the conversion, as the Kings went into the break with a comfortable 26 - 9 lead. 

The Kings scored three unanswered tries within the first ten minutes of the second half. Velleman scored his second of the evening, followed by two from Sergeal Petersen. Davids converted two out of the three as the Kings took a 45 - 9 lead. 

Stephan Zaayman scored 10 minutes later, and with another successful conversion by Davids, the Kings led 52 - 9 with 20 minutes to go. 

The Kings finished the game with a further two tries, the first through replacement wing, Warren Swarts, followed by replacement centre Jaco Bernardo. Davids converted his seventh try of the evening with Petersen taking a shot at the last conversion, but failed to add a further two points as the game ended, 64 - 9, in favour of the Kings. 

The win means that all three teams, the U19, U21 and EP Kings will all compete in the top divisions of their respective competitions in 2015. 

Scorers: 

Border U21 (9) - Penalties: Devandre Sissing (3) 

EP U21 (64) - Tries: Aidon Davis, CJ Velleman (2), Jaco Bernardo, Malcolm Jaer, Selvyn Davids, Sergeal Petersen (2), Stephan Zaayman, Warren Swarts. Conversions: Davids (7) 

Sunridge Super Spar Touchies

The Sunridge Super Spar Touch Rugby Tournament returns to Parks Rugby Club on Saturday the 8th of November.

The popular annual event, now in it's 3rd year, will consist of 30 teams contesting in 3 groups. The teams will be divided into the, "Pro", "Veterans" and "Beer" groups with each group consisting of 10 teams per group.

With sponsors like USN, Aquelle, Score Energy Drink, Virgin Active and Radio Algoa the winning teams can expect a lot of great prizes.

The Player of the Tournament will also enjoy a lovely weekend away courtesy of Grootnek Guest Farm. Former EP Kings player, Kayle van Zyl was the Player of the Tournament in last years event.

The likes of former Eastern Province players, Fabian Juries, Justin Peach, Monty du Mont and Elrich van Vuuren have all played in previous tournaments.

Rugby will not be the only thing on the menu, there will also be a "potjie kos" competition, a dog show and live music to entertain the entire family. There will also be "Braai" facilities, just bring your own meat, and a beer tent available. First round of games start at 9am.

For more info on how to get involved or to enter a team for the "touchies" please contact Christo on 072 238 4463 and Gerrie on 083 261 9670 to enter the "potjie kos" competition.

 Come down and support the biggest one touch rugby tournament in the Eastern Cape.

EP U21s too strong for Border

The EP Kings U21 side beat the Border U21s, 64 - 9, in a promotion/relegation match at the BCM Stadium in East London on Friday evening.

The Kings scored 10 tries to book their place in the A Division of next year's ABSA Under 21 Competition.

Post match to follow....

Scorers:
Border U21 (9) - Penalties: Devandre Sissing (3)

EP U21 (64) - Tries: Aidon Davis, CJ Velleman (2), Jaco Bernardo, Malcolm Jaer, Selvyn Davids, Sergeal Petersen (2), Stephan Zaayman, Warren Swarts. Conversions: Davids (7)

Getting that "bulldog" off their backs

Eastern Province Kings U21 head coach, Ryan Felix, has named his team to take on the Border Bulldogs U21 team in East London on Friday evening in the battle for the right to play in the A division of the ABSA Currie Cup U21 Competition next year.

The EP Kings U21 side have had a phenomenal season, having won the B Division final against arch rivals SWD last week and bringing the trophy home for the third time in a row.

Felix said the team, once again captained by Kevin Kaba, was fairly unchanged from the team that beat SWD, with just two changes to the starting lineup.

Warrick Venter moves up from the bench to start at hooker, after John Henry Schmitt sustained a knee injury in the final, while Wynand Grassmann takes over from Aidon Davis on the flank as he moves to eigthman to cover for Ivan du Preez who is unavailable due to exams.

There is also two changes to the bench, with Tyrone Rankin called up as replacement hooker, and Jason Baggott coming up for Sonwabo Majola, who is also unavailable due to exams.

“This has been a great season for us, with the team performing really well against the tougher competitors in the division,” said Felix.

“The team have worked really well together this year and the work ethic, team spirit and overall energy has been really amazing to be a part of,” he said.

Felix said they would not be underestimating their opponents on Friday night.

“We know they have had a tough season this year, but they are playing at a different level to us, so we cannot go in with the mentality that this will be an easy game. We know that they will be looking to defend their A division status so they will be coming at us hard,” he said.

Felix said the team were, however, up for the challenge.

“We have had good games against teams like Boland and SWD, both of whom have similar playing styles to Border and there is a definite hunger in the team to leavebehind a legacy for the next group of players coming through,” he said.

EP Kings U21: 

1 Nicolas Roebeck 2 Warrick Venter 3 Mzuvukile Sofisa 4 Kevin Kaba 5 Stephan Zaayman 6 CJ Velleman 7 Waynand Grassmann 8 Aidon Davis 9 Francwa Ueckermann 10 Malcolm Jaer 11 Ayabulela Dlepu 12 Riaan Esterhuizen 13 Siphumelele Msutwana 14 Segeal Petersen 15 Selvyn Davids

Reserves:

16 Tyrone Rankin 17 Matthew Moore 18 Brendan Hector 19 Frans Gerber 20 Jasson Baggott 21 Warren Swarts 22 Jaco Bernardo

U21s set for perfect ending

There will be no neighbourly love this coming Friday when the Eastern Province Kings U21s face the Border U21s at the BCM Stadium in East London.

The Kings who won the B Division for the third year running after beating SWD on Friday will have an opportunity to play the bottom of the A Division log finishers in a promotion / relegation match to earn A Division status for the 2015 season.

After Border beat the Kings in the 2011 B Division final they proceeded to the promotion match where they beat the Falcons, 23 - 22, to earn their promotion to the A Division.

The Kings and Border have been battling it out since 2012 in the promotion matches, with the Kings being unsuccessful over the last two years, with Border beating them 21 - 15 in 2012, and 23 - 21 in 2013.

The Kings have not lost a single match during the regular season since 2012, with only the Bulldogs in their way of that ellusive A Division spot.

This year has been no exception as the Kings won 7 from 7, scorning 261 points and conceding 90 with a 171 points difference. They have scored 35 tries and conceded only 12 with 6 bonus points and a total of 34 log points.

Border, on the other hand, lost all their games, only scoring 59 and conceding 1131 with a massive -1072 points difference. They have only scored 4 tries and conceded 175, with no log points to show for the season.

Should the U21 team beat Border on Friday and gain promotion it will be a historic year for EP Rugby, as all three teams will then be in their respective top divisions in 2015. 

Another successful year for the U21s

The Eastern Province Kings u21s ended their ABSA Under 21 Competition on a high when they beat SWD in Welkom at the North West Stadium on Friday afternoon.

The Kings have been unbeaten during their regular season since 2011, and this year has been no exception as they won seven from seven.

Leighton Eksteen got his team’s only points early on in the match, as SWD took a 3 – 0 lead.

Kings’ Selvyn Davids levelled the scores a few minutes later when he kicked a penalty to bring the score to 3 all after seven minutes.

Eksteen failed with two attempts to add points on the board for his team, first through a dropgoal and the second through a penalty kick.

The Kings scored 17 points before the half time break, the first try came through scrumhalf Franswa Ueckermann and the second through outside center, Siphu Msutwana. Fullback, Selvyn Davids converted both tries and also added a penalty to give the Kings a 20 – 3 lead at half time.

The Kings continued their onslaught in the second half, as they scored a further four tries.

Davies converted his own try at the start of the second half, to stretch the Kings lead to 27 – 3.

Two quick tries followed, the first by Sergeal Petersen which was converted by Davies and the second by CJ Vellerman, Davies was unsuccessful with the second conversion as the game was pretty much over at 39 – 3 with just under twenty minutes to go.

Kings flank, Aidon Davis scored his team’s final try, Davids converted to take the Kings score to 46 – 3, which was also the final score when the final whistle blew.

The ABSA Under 21 trophy has find a home in the Kings’ cabinet, with this being their third consecutive trophy win.

Selvyn Davids is also the third highest points scorer behind Western Province’ Robert du Preez on 137 and Blue Bulls’ Kobus Marais on 138. Davids has scored a total of 104 points, which includes 10 tries, 15 conversions and 8 penalties.

The Kings will play a match against the Border Bulldogs for promotion to the A Division of next year’s ABSA Under 21 Competition.

Scorers:

Eastern Province u21 (46) – Tries: Ueckermann, Msutwana, Davids, Petersen, Vellerman, Davis. Conversions: Davis (5). Penalties: Davis (2)

SWD u21 (3) – Penalty: Leighton Eksteen

Bulls to strong for under 19s

The Eastern Province Kings under 19s hosted the Blue Bulls under 19s in their final match of the ABSA Under 19 Competition at the Nelson Mandela Bay in Port Elizabeth on Friday afternoon.

Dispite trailing by one point at half time the Bulls scored two tries in the second half to secure a 31 - 21 win. 

The Kings took an early lead after two Garrick Mattheus penalties, before the Bulls replied with the first try of the match through flanker, Abongile Nonkontwana. Simon Bolze added the conversion to give his team a one point lead at the end of the first quarter, 7 - 6.

Kings regained the lead minutes later through a Mattheus penalty, but the lead was short lived as the Bulls replied with a five pointer through Johannes Linde as the Bulls took a 14 - 9 lead after a successful conversion by Botze.

Malcolm Jaer crossed the line for the first of his two tries minutes later, Mattheus was on target as he gave the Kings a two point lead, 16 - 14.

Bolze added another penalty just before halftime to give his team a one point lead as the two teams went into the break, 17 - 16.

Linde stretched the Bulls lead as he scored his second try to 24 - 16 after another successful conversion through Bolze.

Kings' Jaer narrowed the gap with his second try but Mattheus was unsuccessful to add the extra's to bring the score to 24 - 21 with 15 minutes to go.

Bulls outside center, Linde scored his his team's third try to secure a 31 - 21 win for the Bulls after a successful conversion from Kurt Webster.

The Kings ended sixth on the log after a slow start, with four wins out of twelve games. They scored 227 points and conceded 253 points, with 25 tries for and 32 against.

Scorers: 

EP Kings u19 (23) - Tries: Jaer (2). Conversion: Mattheus (1). Penalties: Mattheus (3) 

 

Blue Bulls u19 (31) - Tries: Nonkontwana, Linde (3). Conversion: Bolze (4). Penalty: Bolze

First win for Kings

The Eastern Province Kings ended their ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division season with a win over the Steval Pumas at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Friday evening.

The home side turned a 19 – 17 half time lead into a 26 – 25 point win, after the Pumas took a 25 – 19 lead with 15 minutes to go.

Scott van Breda missed an early long range penalty kick after four minutes of play, but the Kings did get the first points on the board after Pumas’ Lubabalo Mtyanda was yellow carded for multipal side entry into the ruck. Tobie Botes crossed the line for the Kings’ first try, Gary van Aswegen was unable to convert the extras as the Kings took a 5 – 0 lead.

Justin van Staden kicked a penalty minutes later as he narrowed the gap to just 2 points, 3 – 5.

Continued pressure from the Kings allowed for Ronnie Cooke to score his team’s second try, van Aswegen was successful with the conversion as the Kings stretched their lead to 12 – 3.

Shortly after Mtyanda returned from watching his team concede 12 points, Rosko Specman got his marching orders after a dangerous tackle resulted in his team having to play another 10 minutes with 14 men.

Paul Schoeman was at the back of a well executed roling maul from a lineout as the Kings went over for their third try, and with van Aswegen adding the extra two the Kings had a comfortable 19 – 3 lead with 10 minutes to half time.

The Pumas started to play more direct rugby and with much needed territorial advantage they managed to score two quick tries before the half time break. The first coming from, ex Kings player, Frankie Herne with van Staden adding the extras as the Pumas trailed by 9, 10 – 19.

The second try came through a quick tap by Speckman just outside Kings 22, he gained enough meters before off loading to van Staden to scored his team second try, he also converted the five pointer to bring the half time score to 19 – 17 and everything to play for in the second half.

The Pumas took the lead for the first time in the match when center Stefan Watermeyer crossed the line for his teams third try, van Staden missed an easy conversion as the Pumas led 22 – 19 five minutes into the half.

Van Aswegen had an opportunity to level the scores but missed a penalty kick. Van Staden streched their lead to 25 – 19 after he kicked a vital penalty as the game reached the final fifteen minutes.

The Kings threw everything at the Pumas as they tried to break the visitors defense. It was, however, a brilliant grubber kick through, man of the match, Shane Gates inside the Pumas 22 that turned their defense around and the speed of van Breda to outsprint the cover defense to dive on the ball as it rolled over the Pumas try line.

Van Aswegen slotted the conversion kick, five meters from the touch line to give the Kings a one point lead with five minutes to go.

With only seconds left on the clock the Kings were defending desperatly inside the Pumas 22 which forced them to give a little chip kick just to get out of their in goal area, the ball bounced favourable for the Kings and just reached the touch line after a desperate clearance from van Aswegen to end the game and to give the Kings their first win of the season, 26 – 25.

Scorers:

EP Kings (26) – Tries: Botes, Cooke, Schoeman, van Breda. Conversions: van Aswegen (3)

Pumas (25) – Tries: Herne, van Staden, Watermeyer. Conversion: van Staden (2). Penalties: van Staden (2)

EP Kings (26) v Pumas (25)

The Eastern Province Kings recorded their first win of this year's ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, when they beat the Steval Pumas at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Friday evening.

The Kings scored four tries to three as they secured the nail biter by just one point.

Match report to follow...

Scorers:

EP Kings (26) – Tries: Botes, Cooke, Schoeman, van Breda. Conversions: van Aswegen (3)

Pumas (25) – Tries: Herne, van Staden, Watermeyer. Conversion: van Staden (2). Penalties: van Staden (2)

EP Kings to face Pumas

A disappointing season will finally come to an end for the Eastern Province Kings when they face the Pumas at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Friday evening.

The Kings, still winless after 9 games, will have one final shot at getting a win under their belts as doors close for business on Friday, before the season heads into the play-off rounds.

Kings coach, Carlos Spencer was forced to make changes to his front row as both Charles Marais and CJ van der Linde are out with injuries and will be replaced by Simon Kerrod and BG Uys respectively.

Darron Nell returns as captain in possibly his last game in an EP jersey, as he replaces Steven Cummins at lock.

The only other change to the starting lineup sees Scott van Breda back at fullback with Siviwe Soyizwapi moving back to wing where he'll be replacing Ntabeni Dukisa.

Edgar Marutlulle along with Lizo Goboka and Jaco Grobler return to the bench.

The game in Port Elizabeth will be a sort of, “everything to play for but nothing to lose”, for the bottom of the log Kings as they will not be in danger of playing a promotion / relegation match at the end of the season, after they were guaranteed Currie Cup Premier Division status for two seasons.

Kick-off is at 7:10pm.

EP Kings:

1 Simon Kerrod 2 Martin Ferreira 3 BG Uys 4 Darron Nell (c) 5 Cameron Lindsay 6 Paul Schoeman 7 Devin Oosthuizen 8 Tim Agaba 9 Tobie Botes 10 Gary van Aswegen 11 Siviwe Soyizwapi 12 Shane Gates 13 Tim Whitehead 14 Ronnie Cooke 15 Scott van Breda

Reserves:

16 Edgar Marutlulle 17 Charl du Plessis 18 Lizo Gqoboka 19 Steven Cummins 20 Thembelani Bholi 21 Jaco Grobler 22 Ntabeni Dukisa

Cooke to lead Kings

Eastern Province Kings head coach, Carlos Spencer, has named a fairly unchanged team to take on the GKW Griquas in Kimberly on Saturday at 14.30.

Spencer announced today that Ronnie Cooke will be leading the team in the absence of Darron Nell (bench) and Steven Sykes (unavailable) on Saturday.

“Darron Nell is currently battling with a calf strain and will undergo fitness tests on Thursday, if he passes he will move to the bench,” he said.

The changes to the starting line up include Cameron Lindsay moving up from the bench to cover for Nell at lock opposite Steven Cummins, while Tim Agaba moves up from the bench to eighth man.

Paul Schoeman moves from eighth man to flank, to cover for Stefan Willemse, who is out with a shoulder injury.

“I think Tim is an outright eight, I was impressed with the energy that he brought when he came on last week Saturday,” he said.

The only change on the bench, besides Nell, is the inclusion of George Whitehead.

Spencer said the team line outs continued to be frustrating, but said he did not want to go in depth on the matter.

“It was a big issue for us, we did put ourselves in positions where we got ourselves back into the game and if we had won even half of those line outs I believe we could have gone on to win the match.

Spencer said the team was looking forward to the clash against the Griquas.

“This is an important game for us and we’re excited. We feel if we just stick to the plan, and look after ourselves, I’m sure we will do fine,” he said.

Spencer said the biggest challenge for the team was the first fifteen to twenty minutes of the game, where the opposition managed to get a head start.

“Our focus is on those first ten to fifteen minutes, it is important that we get ourselves into the game and just stick to the plan,” he said.

EP Kings:

1 Charles Marais 2 Martin Ferreira 3 CJ van der Linde 4 Cameron Lindsay 5 Steven Cummins 6 Paul Schoeman 7 Devin Oosthuizen 8 Tim Agaba 9 Tobie Botes 10 Gary van Aswegen 11 Ntabeni Dukisa 12 Shane Gates 13 Tim Whitehead 14 Ronnie Cooke (c) 15 Siviwe Soyizwapi

Reserves:

16 Albe de Swardt 17 Charl du Plessis 18 Darron Nell 19 Thembelani Bholi 20 Kevin Luiters 21 George Whitehead 22 Scott van Breda

Poor execution letting Kings down

EP Kings Headcoach, Carlos Spencer said poor execution and defense let them down when they played the Free State Cheetahs at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

The Cheetahs outscored the Kings four tries to three, picking up the bonus point in the 72nd minute.

Cheetahs flyhalf, Willie du Plessis score the first points for his team through a penalty kick in the 7th minute.

Ten minutes later he stretched their lead to 6 points after another successful penalty.

Kings' Gary van Aswegen kicked his teams first points in the 23rd minute through a penalty.

Bulls outside center, Francios Venter scored the first try of the game as the Bulls took a 13 - 3 lead with 10 minutes to half time.

Two minutes later Ntabeni Dukisa crossed the line for the Kings' first try, van Aswegen converted the extra's as the Kings trailed by three, 10 - 13.

Du Plessis kicked a penalty on half time as the Cheetahs took a16 - 10 lead into the break.

The Cheetahs stretched their lead five minutes into the second half when Sarel Pretorius scored a try in his 100th Currie Cup match, du Plessis added the extra's as the Cheetahs took a 23 - 10 lead.

Siyanda Grey gave the Kings a bit of hope when he scored a try towards the end of the third quarter, van Aswegen's touch line conversion came off the upright as they trailed by 8, 15 - 23 with 20 minutes to go.

The Cheetahs, however, scored another two tries, the first through du Plessis who also converted his own try and the bonus point try through Raymond Rhule, Pieter-Steyn de Wet added the extra's as they took a 37 - 15 lead with 10 minutes to go.

The Kings scored a consolation try through replacement Dwayne Jenner after a good passage of driving play. Scott van Breda added the extra two, as the game ended 22 - 37.

Scorers:

EP Kings - Tries: Dukisa, Grey, Jenner. Conversions: van Aswegen (1), van Breda (1). Penalties: van Aswegen

Cheetahs - Tries: Venter, Pretorius, du Plessis, Rhule. Conversions: du Plessis (3), de Wet. Penalties: du Plessis (3)

Preview: EP Kings vs Cheetahs

Coming off a 28 - 13 loss against the Vodacom Blue Bulls, Eastern Province Kings Head Coach Carlos Spencer decided to make wholesale changes for their first cross-conference match against the Free State Cheetahs at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. 

Spencer has made seven changes to the starting lineup, which sees Martin Ferreira making his Currie Cup debut for the Kings as he replaces Edgar Marutlulle who sustained a shoulder injury against the Blue Bulls on Friday night. 

Other changes amongst the forwards includes, Tom Botha as he replaces CJ van der Linde who moves to the bench. 

Darron Nel who scored the try against the Bulls last week, will replace David Bulbring who will be missing the next four games due to an ankle injury. 

Ronnie Cooke moves back to outside center as he replaces Tim Whitehead. Siyanda Grey has recovered from the flu and will form part of the back three with Ntabeni Dukisa on the wing and Siviwe Soyizwapi who takes over from Scott van Breda who moves to the bench. 

“It’s the same this weekend as what it was for us in the previous six weeks. It’s going to be a massive challenge for us and we’re looking forward to that,” said Spencer. 

Looking at some of the Kings player stats: 

Lizo Gqoboka has had 39 carries in 6 games, 12 in their last game against the Bulls. He also scored a try against the Bulls when they played them in Pretoria in their first round match. He has played 340 minutes out of a possible 480 minutes over the last six games. Lizo also gets around the park, with 173 meters in six games, 53 meters against the Bulls last week. 

Edgar Martululle has played 363 minutes out of a possible 480 minutes. He has had 55 carries with 10 in the last game, and has gained 316 meters with 83 meters in the last game. He's ball handling has also been good for a hooker with only 2 handling errors in 6 games. 

Shane Gates has played 421 minutes out of a possible 480 minutes, and a full 80 minutes in the Kings' last game. Gates has been vital for the Kings in the midfield, with 79 tackles overall, 11 in the last game. He has missed 8 tackles overall and only 1 against the Bulls last week. Gates also made two line breaks in his 7 carries against the Bulls last week. He is also the top try scorer for the Kings with 2 tries. 

Scott van Breda has played a mammoth 444 minutes over the last 6 games, only missing 36 minutes against the Bulls. Van Breda is the top points scorer for the Kings with 37 points. He has beaten 3 defenders from his 33 carries, and also managed 5 line breaks with 1 try.     

EP Kings u21 to face Griquas u21

The Eastern Province Kings under 21s will face the Griquas under 21s as a curtain raiser for the EP Kings and Free State Cheetahs at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

Kings fullback, Selvyn Davies scored 22 points in their last match as the Kings beat SWD 37- 6 at Outeniqua Park in George a week ago. 

Kings prop, Nicolas Roebeck is the only player to retain his spot in the starting lineup, as both replacements from last week, Warrick Venter and Matthew Moore, swop places with John Schmitt and Mzuvukile Sofisa who moves to the bench.

Captain, Kevin Kaba will again form the lock pairing with Brendon Hector.

Ivan du Preez will replace Frans Gerber as he moves to the flank to make way for Aiden Davies at the back of the scrum.

Amongst the backs, Sonwabo Majola comes in for Franswa Ueckermann at scrumhalf to form a new partnership with Warren Swarts.

Jaco Bernardo will run inside Siphumelele Msutwana as he moves up from the bench to replace Riaan Esterhuizen at inside center. The only other change to the backline sees Khaya Malotana replacing Segeal Peterson on the right wing.

Mario Mowers and Matthuys Venter are the only newcomers to the bench.

The Kings are currently topping the log in Group B on 29 points from 6 games, followed by Boland with a game in hand on 20.

Kick-off at 12:30pm.

EP Kings u21:

1 Nicolas Roebech 2 Warrick Venter 3 Matthew Moore 4 Kevin Kaba 5 Brandon Hector 6 Ivan du Preeze 7 Sefan Zaayman 8 Aiden Davis 9 Sonwabo Majola 10 Warren Swarts 11 Aya Dlepu 12 Jaco Bernardo 13 Siphumelele Msutwana 14 Khaya Malotana 15 Selvyn Davids

Reserves:

16 John Schmitt 17 Mzuvukile Sofisa 18 Erwin Slabbert 19 Claude Tshidibi 20 Mario Mowers 21 Juan Smit 22 Matthuys Venter   

EP Kings u19 to face Western Province

The Eastern Province Kings under 19s will travel to Cape Town this weekend to face the Western Province under 19s on Saturday, as they will try and make an amends after their first round loss in Port Elizabeth, 10 - 38. 

The Kings had a convincing bonus point win on Friday in Port Elizabeth, scoring 5 tries to 1 in their 42 - 7 win over the Leopards. Kings fullback Malcom Jaer scored 25 points as he crossed the line twice and added 3 conversions and 3 penalties with the boot.

The Kings are currently 5th on the log after 9 games with 19 points, 1 point behind the Sharks on 20 points, and 4 points ahead of the Lions on 15.

EP Kings u19:

1 David Murray 2 JP Jamieson 3 James Beyl 4 Tyler Paul 5 Sintu Manjezi 6 CJ Vellerman 7 Elandre van der Merwe 8 Wyand Grassman 9 Kewan Gibbs 10 Jason Baggott 11 Lindelwe Zungu 12 Luan Nieuwoudt 13 Jeremy Ward 14 Luca Dalla-Vecchia 15 Malcolm Jaer

Reserves:

16 Arno Lotter 17 Christoper Whiting 18 Thembelihle Yase 19 Gerrit Huisamen 20 Mihlali Nchukana 21 Martin Keller 22 Vincient Moss 23 Athi Mayinje

Wholesale changes for Cheetahs

Coming off a 28 – 13 loss against the Vodacom Blue Bulls, Eastern Province Kings Head Coach Carlos Spencer decided to make wholesale changes, some forced through injury other purely rotational, for their first cross-conference match against the Free State Cheetahs at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

Spencer has made seven changes to the starting lineup, which sees Martin Ferreira making his Currie Cup debut for the Kings at hooker as he replaces Edgar Marutlulle, who sustained a shoulder injury against the Blue Bulls on Friday night.

Tom Botha is back in the starting lineup and will be replacing CJ van der Linde who moves to the bench. Darron Nel who scored the try against the Bulls last week, will replace David Bulbring who will miss the next four games due to an ankle injury.

Ronnie Cooke moves back to outside center as he replaces Tim Whitehead, who suffers from a calf strain. Siyanda Grey has recovered from the flu and will form part of the back three with Ntabeni Dukisa on the wing along with Siviwe Soyizwapi, who takes over from Scott van Breda who moves to the bench.

“It’s the same this weekend as what it was for us in the previous six weeks. It’s going to be a massive challenge for us and we’re looking forward to that,” said Spencer.

Kick-off for the untelevised game will be at 3pm.

EP Kings:

1 Lizo Gqooka 2 Martin Ferreira 3 Tom Botha 4 Steven Sykes (c) 5 Darron Nell 6 Shaun McDonald 7 Devin Oosthuizen 8 Paul Schoeman 9 Kevin Luiters 10 Gary van Aswegen 11 Ntabeni Dukisa 12 Shane Gates 13 Ronnie Cooke 14 Siyanda Grey 15 Siviwe Soyizwapi

Reserves:

16 Albe de Swardt 17 CJ van der Linde 18 Steven Cummins 19 Stefan Willemse 20 Tobie Botes 21 Dwayne Jenner 22 Scott van Breda

More injury setbacks for Kings

The Eastern Province Kings will be without the services of the dynamic hooker, Edgar Marutlulle, this weekend, following a shoulder injury sustained during the game against the Vodacom Blue Bulls at Nelson Mandela Bay on Friday night.

According to the Kings’ medical team Marutlulle’s injury has ruled him out for the next two weeks.

The team will also be without David Bullbring, who injured his right ankle during the game, and who will be going for a scan of the joint today to determine the extent of the injury, but could be out for the next four weeks.

Tim Whitehead also sat on the sideline yesterday, having been battling with a calf niggle, but has been cleared for selection.

On the positive side, Thembelani Bholi and Siyanda Grey have both recovered from the flu and are available for selection, while Aidon Davis has also been cleared for selection following a knee injury that saw him miss out last week’s game.

The Eastern Province Kings will face the Free State Cheetahs in their first cross-conference match at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Saturday afternoon.

Too many individual errors

Eastern Province Head Coach, Carlos Spencer said it was a case of too many individual errors that cost his team when they lost to the Vodacom Blue Bulls in their return match at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Friday evening. 

Despite trailing by five points at half time, the Bulls scored a further two tries and a penalty in the second half to secure a 28 - 13 win. Bulls flyhalf, Jacques-Louis Potgieter opened the scoring for the Bulls through a penalty after eight minutes, to take a 3 - 0 lead. 

Bulls center, William Small-Smith crossed the line to score the Bulls' first try with 24 minutes gone, Potgieter was unable to convert the extra's as the Bulls took an 8 - 0 lead. 

Kings managed to narrow the gap by two points with two Scott van Breda penalties, but another penalty on half time by Potgieter gave the Bulls an 11 - 6 lead as the whistle blew for half time. 

Bjorn Basson scored an early second half try for the Bulls as they took a comfortable 18 - 6 lead, after the successful conversion by Potgieter. 

Potgieter added another penalty, before Bulls captain, Deon Stegmann scored his teams third try. Potgieter converted the extra's as the game was pretty much over for the Kings at 28 - 6 with 15 minutes to go. 

Akona Ndungane scored his teams bonus point try, but it was disallowed after Stegmann was red carded for striking a Kings player in the face leading up to the try. 

The Kings scored a consilation try well after the 80 minutes as Darron Nel crashed over the try line to score his teams first try. His try was converted by Tobie Botes as the game ended 13 - 28 in favour of the visiting Bulls. 

Scorers: 

EP Kings: (13) - Try: Nel. Conversion: Botes. Panelties: van Breda (2) 

Blue Bulls: (28) - Tries: Small-Smith, Basson, Stegmann. Conversion: Potgieter (2). Penalties: Potgieter (3)

Kings expecting a strong physical battle

Eastern Province Head Coach, Carlos Spencer has announced a few changes to the Kings team that will take on the Vodacom Blue Bulls at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium this Friday night.

Spencer announced five changes to the starting line up and a further four changes to the bench compared to the team that played against the DHL Western Province at Newlands last week.

Up front CJ van der Linde moves to the starting lineup in place of Tom Botha, who is being rested this week.

“Hopefully CJ will bring a bit more for us in terms of the scrum. We have been giving away a few penalties and free kicks in that area so hopefully with his experience he will come in and help solve that,” he said.

Spencer also announced the return of Devon Oosthuizen, who will start at flank opposite Shaun Mcdonald, while Paul Schoeman moves to eighth man to replace Aidon Davis, who twisted his knee during practice on Monday.

Among the backs Spencer announced Gary van Aswegen’s return at flyhalf after a two week injury absence, while Shane Gates returns from the bench to inside center.

On the bench, Spencer went with a five two split, as he felt they would need more replacements up front to match the physicality of the Bulls.

“We can beat the Bulls. We understand that they are a better side than what they were three weeks ago. We know we have a massive challenge on our hands and the guys are excited by that,” he said.

“The Bulls are coming off a good win against the Lions and we need to knock that confidence out,” he said.

Spencer said it was only natural that the team’s confidence had taken a knock having lost the last five games in a row, but said they had been working hard on addressing this and were working hard to turn it around.

“It’s small things that are costing us, I have said it every week, I have 100% confidence in this team.”

“We have put the last five weeks behind us and are looking at this as the start of our season,” said Spencer.

“We have an opportunity to turn the season around, we want people to remember for the five weeks coming, not the five weeks that have gone past,” he said.

Captain Steven Sykes said he didn’t believe there was any doubt in the team.

“We are really positive and looking forward to the last five games. The guys are fired up and its great that we’re playing at home,” he said.

Sykes said they were expecting a physical match from the Bulls and the Kings were looking at bringing a strong physical game to them.

EP Kings: 

1 Lizo Gqoboka 2 Edgar Marutlulle 3 CJ van der Linde 4 David Bulbring 5 Steven Sykes (c) 6 Shaun McDonald 7 Devon Oosthuizen 8 Paul Schoeman 9 Kevin Luiters 10 Gary van Aswegen 11 Siviwe Soyizwapi 12 Shane Gates 13 Tim Whitehead 14 Ronnie Cooke 15 Scott van Breda 

Reserves: 

16 Mike van Vuuren 17 Simon Kerrod 18 BG Uys 19 Darron Nel 20 Stefan Willemse 21 Tobie Botes 22 Ntabeni Dukisa

Kings licking their wounds

There is uncertainty over the availability of some players, as the Kings got together Monday morning for their preparations ahead of Friday nights game against the Blue Bulls, at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth.

EP Kings captain, Steven Sykes was rested at yesterday's practice as he was battling from a chest infection. At this stage it's not too serious and he will be considered for selection.

Two more Kings players are currently off sick due to a chest infection, namely, Siyanda Grey and Thembelani Bholi.

Junior Springbok, Aidon Davis, twisted his knee during yesterday's training. The medical team will evaluate him today to determine the extent of his injury.

Paul Schoeman and Tom Botha were both rested after an intensive game against Western Province, but both will be available to play if selected on Friday. 

There are, however, some rays of sunlight as Charl du Plessis, who has been out with a rib injury, has been declared fit for selection as well as Gary van Aswegen, who missed out the last two games due to a groin strain.

Flanker Shaun McDonald, who sustained a cut above the eye on Friday night, has been declared fit for the upcoming game.

The Kings, who lost narrowly against the Blue Bulls in their first round match at Loftus, 25 - 30, should really back themselves on Friday, as they are still trying to get that first win under their belts.  

Lost opportunities cost Kings u19

Despite a late charge from the Eastern Province Kings under 19s against the Sharks under 19s they were unable to erase an 8 point deficit in the closing minutes in their game on Friday night.

Sharks wing, Marcel Coetzee scored his teams first try after he intercepted turnover ball from the Kings on their try line. Bragman converted his own try as they took a 7 - 0 lead.

Sharks took a 7 - 0 lead into the half time break as the Kings missed two earlier attempts at goal.

Sharks scored their second try through Rowan Gouws, Bragman was unable to convert the extra two as they took a 12 - 0 lead.

Bragman added another three points after good pressure from the Sharks resulted in a penalty inside the Kings 22, Sharks took a comfortable 15 - 0  lead.

Kings outside centre, Jeremy Ward scored his teams only try, Malcolm Jaer converted as the Kings trailed 7 - 15.

The Kings threw everything at the Sharks in the closing minutes but were unable to erase the 8 point deficit. 

Scorers:

EP Kings u19 - Try: Ward. Conversion: Jaer

Sharks u19 - Tries: Coetzee, Gouws. Conversion: Bragman (1). Penalty: Bragman (1)

EP under 19s to face Sharks

The Eastern Province under 19s will face the Sharks under 19s at the NMMU Main Sports field at 5 pm tonight.

The EP u19s are currently 5th on 14 points in Group A of the ABSA Under 19 Competition, with 3 wins and 4 losses from 7 games. 

The Sharks u19s with one game in hand, are 4th on 15 points with 3 wins and 3 losses from 6 games. 

Kick off is at 5pm.

Eastern Province u19:

1 David Murray 2 Jean-Pierre Jamieson 3 James Beyl 4 Elandre van der Merwe 5 Sintu Manjezi 6 CJ Vellerman (c) 7 Tyler Paul 8 Wynand Grassmann 9 Jason Baggott 10 Garrick Mattheus 11 Lindelwe Zungu 12 Luan Nieuwoudt 13 Jeremy Ward 14 Luca Dalla-Vecchia 15 Malcom Jaer

Reserves:

16 Dyllon Domoney 17 Christopher Whiting 18 Thembelihle Yase 19 Gerrit Huisamen 20 Mhlali Nichukana 21 Kewan Gibb 22 Vincient Moss 23 Athenkosi Mayinje

Sharks u19:

1 Mzamo Majola 2 Jordan Meaker 3 Ruan Kramer (c) 4 Johan du Toit 5 Hyron Andrews 6 Adriaan De le Ray 7 Jean-Luc du Preez 8 Daniel du Preez 9 Rowan Gouws 10 Joshua Bragman 11 Philip Marais 12 Merlyn Pieterse 13 Marius Louw 14 Marcel Coetzee 15 Chis Lines

Reserves

16 Andrew du Plessis 17 Cameron Holenstein 18 Mthunzi Moloi 19 Wian Vosloo 20 Ayron Schramm 21 Matthew Reece-Edwards 22 Malcolm Cele 23 Brad Ellse  

EP u21s secure bonus point win

The EP Kings u21s scored three tries in the last 15 minutes in their match against the Limpopo Blue Bulls u21s at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday to secure a bonus point win.

The Kings took an early ten point lead, after Matthys Venter kicked a penalty after just 4 minutes, followed by a Sergeal Petersen try 3 minutes later. Venter added the extra two points as the Kings led 10 - 0 after 7 minutes.

Limpopo's Jean Grobler converted his own try 7 minutes later, after he missed an earlier attempt at a penalty, as they trailed 7 - 10 after 15 minutes.

Limpopo Blue Bulls scored two consecutive tries, the first through Jovan Cookson followed by Jean Volkwyn after Kings' Venter received a yellow card half way through the first half. Both tries were converted by Grobler as Limpopo took a 21 - 10 lead.

Ivan-John du Preez scored a try for the Kings on half time to narrow the gap to four points, after a successful conversion from Venter.

Limpopo held on to a 21 - 17 lead as the teams went into the half time break.

The Kings got their second breath as the game reached the final stages, as they scored three unanswered tries. 

The first two tries were scored through fullback, Selvyn Davids, the first on the 65th minute and the bonus point try a few minutes later. Venter converted the first but was unsuccessful at his second attempt.        

Kings outside centre, Siphu Msutwana scored the Kings' fifth and final try, Venter added the extra two to give the Kings a well deserved 36 - 21 victory.

The Kings stretched their lead to 19 points at the top of the table, five points clear of second placed SWD, who has a game in hand on 14 points.

The Kings will face the Pumas in their next match at Kemsley Park in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

New midfield for Province clash

EP Kings head coach, Carlos Spencer, has made five changes to the starting lineup that will take on DHL Western Province at Newlands this weekend.

Spencer announced that Steven Sykes will once again captain the side as regular skipper, Luke Watson, was still recovering from a concussion.

Changes to the forward pack include Lizo Gqoboka, who will return to the side at loosehead prop in place of BG Uys, with Shaun McDonald coming off the bench on at Flank, rotating with Thembelani Boli who moves to the bench.

At the back, Dwayne Jenner makes his Currie Cup debut at inside centre, with Spencer moving Shane Gates to the bench, opting to rest him a little following a high work load.

“We decided to give Dwayne a start as he has been working hard over the past few weeks in training and hopefully he can bring a bit of physicality to our defence as well,” he said.

Tim Whitehead makes his return at outside after a week’s absence from the team due to a knock he took to the knee during the match against the Blue Bulls. Tim’s return sees Ronnie Cooke moving back to wing opposite Siviwe Shakes Soyizwapi, with Siyanda Grey moving onto the bench.

Tim is rested and refreshed and ready to go and Ronnie gives 100% no matter where you put him,” he said.

George Whitehead retains his spot at flyhalf, with Spencer opting to rest Gary van Aswegen for another week following a groin strain that saw Van Aswegen out of contention for the Lions match.

On the bench, CJ van der Linde returns in place of Charles Marais, after recovering from a calf strain.

Spencer said he was expecting a more physical game against Western Province than against the Lions.

“I think Western Province will bring more physicality especially in the air and up front. The will be a threat on attack and will put pressure on us defensively,” he said.

Spencer said the focus would be on holding onto the ball more and put pressure on the defence, as the team was being forced to tackle, which was placing strain on the players.

“If you have to make 250 to 260 tackles a game, it will take its toll, that’s a lot of tackles to make. We just have to play a little but more with ball in hand. I believe that we are fit enough, we’ve put in the hard work so it’s not as if we’re not fit enough we just have to be patient,” he said.

“I think we’ve improved. It’s just a matter of gradually getting better and better, we are gaining confidence as time goes on so hopefully we keep taking a step forward each week and eventually get that win,” he said. 

The EP Kings:

1. Lizo Gqoboka2.Edgar Marutlulle3. TOM BOTHA4. David Bullbring 5. Steven Sykes6. Shaun MacDonald7. Paul Schoeman 8. Aidon Davis9. Kevin Luiters 10. George Whitehead 11.Siviwe Soyizwapi 12. Dwayne Jenner 13. Tim Whitehead 14. Ronnie Cooke 15.Scott van Breda

RESERVES

16. Mike van Vuuren 17. CJ van der Linde18. Thembalani Bholi19. Stefan Willemse20. Tobie Botes21.Shane Gates 22. Siyanda Grey

Late surge secure win for Lions

Despite a solid 60 minute performance from the Eastern Province Kings, and taking the lead just after half time, the Xerox Golden Lions showed the Kings just how easy a game can turn on its head and why they are strong contenders for this years ABSA Currie Cup finals.

The Lions opened the scoring after just two minutes through a driving maul when flanker, Jaco Kriel, scored his teams first try, conversion was successful from Ruan Combrink as the Lions took an early 7 – 0 lead.

The Kings had an opportunity to level the scores 5 minutes later, but a skip pass out wide to Siyanda Grey was called forward by match referee Marius van der Westhuizen as he ran in for the try.

Ten minutes later, Ruan Dreyer scored his teams second try through a similar driving maul as the first, Combrink was on target and the Lions were leading 14 – 0 after 18 minutes.

Again the Kings were unable to finish off a promising skip pass with a man over, as Siviwe Soyizwapi couldn’t hang on to a pass from Scott van Breda as he went through the gap.

The Kings did however get points on the board through a penalty try, as continual ill discipline prevented the Kings from scoring. Van Breda added the extras as the Kings narrowed the gap to a converted try, trailing 7 – 14 with 10 minutes to half time.

The Kings started to build momentum with ball in hand as the Lions had to play with 14 men after captain, Lionel Mapoe, was yellow carded for his teams ill discipline.

Shane Gates gathered a kick and chase as he scored his teams second try a few minutes later, van Breda was on target with the conversion and in doing so equalled the scores to 14 all with 8 minutes to half time.

The two teams ended the first half with a try each, the first through Lions’ Schalk van der Merwe after poor defense from the Kings, Combrink added the extras as the Lions regained a 7 point lead.

The second try came as quick ball went through the Kings’ backs and ended up at Soyizwapi, this time holding on to go over in the corner. Van Breda was unable to add the two points from the touch line conversion as the Kings went into the half time break trailing 19 – 21.

Kings started the second half well as they took a 1 point lead after 5 minutes through a George Whitehead drop goal, leading 22 – 21.

Discipline and a lack of concentration from the Kings allowed the Lions to regain their lead as two penalties gave them a 5 point lead after back to back penalties from Combrink, leading 27 – 22 after 63 minutes.

Man of the match, Franco Mostert scored his teams bonus point try in the 71st minute after continual pressure from the Lions, Combrink was on target with the touch line conversion as they stretched their lead to 34 – 22.

A final attacking scrum from the Lions were too much for the Kings as Derick Minnie dotted down from the push over scrum, on target Combrink kicked his 5th conversion to go with his two penalties, as the game ended 41 – 22.

Scorers:

EP Kings (22) – Tries: Penalty, Gates, Soyizwapi Conversion: van Breda (3)

Xerox Golden Lions (41) – Tries: Kriel, Dreyer, S vd Merwe, Mostert, Minnie Conversion: Combrink (5) Penalties: Combrink (2)