The Springbok Women delivered a dominant second-half performance to secure a 77-12 victory against Kenya, with Veroeshka Grain’s hat-trick of tries and an impressive team effort stealing the show.
Western Cape, South Africa (17 September 2023) – In a display of pure rugby brilliance, the Springbok Women put on a spectacular show at the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town, securing a resounding 77-12 victory against Kenya. The chilly and blustery afternoon bore witness to a rugby spectacle that had fans on the edge of their seats.
From the very outset, the Springbok Women displayed their dominance. Veroeshka Grain, making a triumphant return to the national side, announced her presence with a remarkable hat-trick of tries. In a matter of minutes, the Bok Women had taken a commanding 19-0 lead, and the roar of the crowd echoed their appreciation for the electrifying start. However, the path to victory was not without its challenges. A momentary lapse in concentration allowed Kenya a glimpse of hope as they fought back with two well-executed tries. Diana Kemunto’s sensational 60-meter intercept try and Stella Wafula’s exploit of a defensive lapse brought Kenya back into the game, closing the gap.
At halftime, the score stood at 24-12, with Roseline Botes adding South Africa’s fourth try from a magnificent lineout maul.
But halftime proved to be a turning point for the Springbok Women. Whatever was said in the changeroom had a transformative effect as they shifted gears, displaying a newfound intensity and determination.
Byrhandré Dolf scored her maiden Test try, and Danelle Lochner followed suit, showcasing the Boks’ newfound patience and precision on the attack. As Botes notched her second try, the score reached a respectable 41-12, setting the stage for a memorable second half.
The Springbok Women seized complete control of the match in the final 25 minutes, running riot as they crossed the Kenyan try-line at will. Unathi Mali marked her Test debut with a try, while Libbie Janse van Rensburg added another to her name. Nompumelelo Mathe and the triumphant Veroeshka Grain both contributed two late tries each to cap off a remarkable performance.
In total, the Springbok Women scored 53 unanswered points in the second half, showcasing their prowess and determination to secure a decisive victory.
The final score of 77-12 in favor of the Springbok Women was a testament to their unwavering spirit, skill, and teamwork. With 13 tries and an impressive display of conversions, this victory will undoubtedly be celebrated by rugby enthusiasts across South Africa and beyond.
Scorers:
Springbok Women 77 (24) –
Tries: Veroeshka Grain (3), Sinazo Mcatshulwa, Roseline Botes (2), Yonela Ngxingolo, Byrhandré Dolf, Danelle Lochner, Unathi Mali, Libbie Janse van Rensburg, Nompumelelo Mathe (2).
Conversions: Janse van Rensburg (5), Mary Zulu.
Kenya Lionesses 12 (12) –
Tries: Diana Kemunto, Stella Wafula.
Conversions: Grace Okulu.
The Springbok Women’s resounding victory is a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and the sheer joy of rugby. As they continue to inspire fans and pave the way for women’s rugby, this triumph against Kenya will surely be remembered as a historic moment in the sport’s illustrious history.
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