Muir win in Graaff-Reinet

A traditional rivalry took place in Graaff-Reinet as Union High played host to Muir College. Muir sneaked in as victors 19-16 when the final whistle went.

At the break, the game could have gone either way as the scores were locked at 13 all.

Muir’s captain Lunathi Nxele opened the scoring when a well-worked move paid off. The College’s lead was extended when inside centre Luphelo Miggels kicked a penalty. The game became loose, which suited Union High. Union narrowed the gap with a converted try. Muir lost concentration and Union High took full advantage. Union kicked two penalties taking the lead.

Muir slowed the game down and regained some structure. After putting a few phases together the College was now on the front foot. Wing Mihlali Mosi shrugged off a defender and shows some pace to dot down and level the scores.

The second half saw Muir leave 10 points on the field because of poor decision-making and not sticking to the basics. However, Muir did apply pressure to force a penalty which Miggels kicked to take the lead. Union High shortly replied with a penalty kick of their own.

Scores were level for most of the half until Muir dominated a ruck in Union’s half. Miggels “stepped up” kicked the penalty and put Muir in the lead thus resulting in Muir's winning the game.

Lock pairing of Ancel Velkers and Mihlali Mwanda worked well in the tight phases to secure the ball for Muir. Flank Ntsika Fisanti had a stand-out game in the loose forcing numerous turnovers and penalties.

Centres Lunathi Nxele and Luphelo Miggels each had a solid game on attack and defence keeping the opposition busy, allowing others to play off them and putting Muir on the front foot.

By Lintin Gouws