Hosts Kearsney Concede Again

Welkom Gimnasium vs Keasney, 21-8

The final game of the 12th Standard Bank Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival was between hosts Kearsney College and Welkom Gim.Conditions were not good which perhaps did Kearsney a favour.That Welkom scored just two tries compared with the eight scored in their first two games, illustrates the point.

Kearsney opened the scoring with an early penalty by Jordan Bamber.Welkom Gim backs could not use their normal running style, so knock-ons and losing their footing enabled Kearsney to stay competitive.

Lock Christo Steyn managed to force his way over for Welkom’s opening try which was converted by Marchall Andrews for the Free State side to lead 7-3.The rest of the half saw Welkom coming close, but they could not add to their tally, leaving the halftime score 7-3.

With conditions darkening, and thick mist coming in again, the rugby was a forwards game.Kearsney stood up and eighthman Massimo Fierro opened the scoring in the second half, going over in a flurry of bodies in the corner.This put the hosts 8-7 in front with 20 minutes remaining.

Welkom were awarded a penalty and Andrews added the three points to put his side into a 10-8 lead; with the mist making it difficult to see across the field at this stage.This lead was increased when Andrews converted his second penalty and Welkom led 13-8 with 13 minutes remaining.

A try was scored in the far corner by Welkom wing Morné Maastriet, which increased the lead to 18-8.Andrews was deadly with his boot even in these conditions and he added his third penalty to lead 21-8.

Kearsney pressed for the last few minutes but could not get over the line, leaving Welkom deserved winners by 21-8.

Scorers

For Welkom:
Tries: Christo Steyn, Morné Maastriet
Con: Marchall Andrews
Pens: Marchall Andrews 3

For Kearsney:
Try: Massimo Fierro
Pen: Jordan Bamber