Parkies power to 64-12 statement win in wet Pretoria
Not even icy cold and relentless rain could halt the hosts, Die Hoërskool Menlopark, as they opened the Fairtree Sport Festival with a commanding 64-12 victory over Hoërskool Tygerberg on Friday in Pretoria.
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Parkies dominated up front, laying a strong attacking platform through their powerful scrumming and accurate lineout work, which was an impressive feat in the challenging conditions.
The spotlight up front fell on hooker Jannes Eksteen, who controlled the driving maul superbly and was rewarded with two tries.
Loosehead prop Dean Field also earned a reward for his impressive scrumming and crossed for a try of his own.
Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the hosts’ backline thrived. The return of Dylan Stumke at inside centre made a notable difference. He demonstrated his versatile skill set by using his powerful left boot to keep the Tigers pinned deep in their half, on defence.
Jody Abrahams, who took on the role of fullback, settled in as if he had worn the no. 15 jersey all season long, bagging a brace of tries, thanks to his lively performance.
However, none shone brighter than Menlo’s left-wing Zander Hamman. He impressed with a series of powerful runs, one of which resulted in a well-taken try. He then compounded the damage with his boot, converting seven of his nine attempts at goal to contribute 19 points to his side’s tally.
Despite the heavy defeat, the try of the day, arguably, belonged to Hoërskool Tygerberg‘s fullback Calvin Hitmana, who brought the small Western Cape contingent to their feet with a superb solo effort, which began in his own 22 and saw him slice through multiple defenders on his way to the try-line.
Scorers
Menlopark 64 (28) – Tries: Jannes Eksteen (2), Jody Abrahams (2), Zander Hamman, Dean Field, Duran Pieterse, Tyler Burkett, Dylan Stumke, Lucian Reed. Conversions: Hamman (7). Tygerberg (12) – Try: Calvin Hitimana, Penalty Try.
