Baaitjies claim the glory

RICHARDS Bay High School (Baaitjies) claimed the bragging rights against rivals Empangeni High School (EHS) on Saturday, when they managed to win two, draw one and lose one in the first team hockey, netball and rugby clashes played in Empangeni.

The first team girls hockey sides kicked off the action, which saw Baaitjies claim a narrow 1-0 victory. Marochelle Booyse was the goal scorer.

The first team boys hockey followed, which was a cracker of a game, ending in a 1-1 draw thanks to goals from Ryan Botha (RBHS) and Darnell Huges (EHS).

The first team girls netball was a one-sided affair, with Baaitjies running away with a 26-11 victory.

In the rugby clash, the home side gave their supporters something to cheer about when they took an early 5-0 lead after front rower Ruan Swiegers crossed the line and held on to the lead going into half-time.

The second half action heated up, with Baaitjies winger Blackie Makhati dotting down in the corner. Flyhalf Divan Meintjies converting to hand the visitors a 7-5 lead.

EHS struck back with a try by flanker Ferro van Greunen, converted by David Botes to reclaim the lead (12-7).

Hooker Rudi Best then intercepted the ball and ran 20 meters to dot down for EHS to extend the lead to 17-7.

Not to be outdone, Richards Bay scrumhalf Christian Barnard scored on the hooter, with Meinjties converting to end the game at 17-14 to EHS.