Graeme edge out Muir
The final fixture of Muir’s 2012 season was a tight affair as they narrowly went down 31-32 to Graeme.
It was a physical encounter and saw both sides make good use of their opportunities during the game. Muir had their noses in front, going into the break with a 17-8 lead.
The hosting Muir led within the first few minutes of the game when inside centre Lisa Banzi crossed the line after hard work by the forwards in the scrum. Flyhalf Frank Adonis kicked the conversion.
Muir extended their lead with Adonis kicking a penalty. Graeme’s left wing Onke Masoka chipped away at Muir’s lead with a penalty. This spurred the visitors on and their flank Dalu January crossed the line. Muir was not outdone and captain Bazi scored his second of the game. Scrumhalf Sonwabo Majola kicked the conversion.
The second-half was a ding-dong battle as both sides used their possession and opportunities well to put points on the board. Graeme ran in two tries through inside centre Sean Condon and right wing Siweze Stamper. Masoka kicked both conversions and a penalty to put the visitors into the lead. Muir replied and saw fullback Benjamin Madlingozi fool the defence with some fancy footwork, scrumhalf Majola kicked the conversion.
Graeme used their forwards well and rewarded when Luke Sharneck crossed the line. Masoka converted. Muir upped the intensity putting Graeme on the back and saw reserve lock Jethro Strauss bulldoze his way over the line. Adonis’s conversion ended the game.
Mention must be made of the whole Muir team who played with pride and determination throughout the game. The team played to their strengths and was rewarded with superb team tries. They also never gave up when the table was turned and “fought” their way back until the end…
Scorers:
For Muir:
Tries: Lisa Banzi 2, Benjamin Madlingozi, Jethro Strauss
Cons: Frank Adonis 2, Sonwabo Majola 2
Pen: Frank Adonis
For Graeme:
Tries: Dalu January, Sean Condon, Siweze Stamper, Luke Sharneck
Cons: Onke Masoka 3
Pens: Onke Masoka 2
By Lyntin Gouws
