WP overcome Free State in thrilling Craven Week finale

DAY FIVE WRAP: Western Province overcame a spirited Free State side in the final match of the Under-18 Craven Week at Hoërskool Monument in Krugersdorp while Boland and the Pumas secured victories on Saturday to end their respective campaigns on a high.

The final day of the tournament witnessed a number of exciting, high-scoring contests. Three teams – namely WP, Boland, and the Pumas – claimed victories to finish the competition unbeaten.

The last game of the competition was in the balance until late in the second half when wing Freek de Kock scored in the corner and extended WP’s lead to 13 points.

Siyabonga Kenny touched down in the 64th minute to give Free State hope of a comeback, until a late try by replacement Torren February sealed a 37-24 win for the Cape side.

Earlier in the day, the Pumas rebounded from a 14-point half-time deficit to edge the WP XV 27-22.

Boland continued their impressive run when they beat Eastern Province 35-27, with wing Benedict George and fullback Howard Ocks scoring two tries apiece.

The hosts edged South Western Districts 45-40 in a clash that yielded 11 tries overall. A second-half blitz by the Sharks earned them a 26-19 win over the Bulls.

Free State fullback Heinz Stockenstrom finished the U18 Craven Week with the most points (45), while Griquas fullback Gregan Jansen topped the try-scoring table (5).

Free State flyhalfd Alzeadon Felix was named Player of the Tournament.

Day Five Results:

Leopards 43 (12) beat Limpopo Blue Bulls 39 (17)
WP XV 22 (17) beat 27 Pumas (3)
Valke 30 (20) beat Griquas 24 (17)
Lions 45 (21) beat SWD 40 (20)
Border 16 (8) beat Griffons 10 (5)
Bulls 19 (7) beat Sharks 26 (0)
Boland 35(18) beat EP 27 (5)
WP 37 (18) beat Free State 24 (17)

Thank you for all the support, we appreciate it 💯@stadio_HigherEd @pura_soda #Buildingboks#Youthweeks pic.twitter.com/8e30KkQjWj

— SA Junior Rugby (@SAJuniorRugby) June 29, 2024