Valke overpower Leopards with six tries to maintain unbeaten Currie Cup run
Barnard Stadium erupted with cheers and song as fans created an electric atmosphere when the Valke clashed with the Leopards on June 21 in the second round of the Currie Cup First Division.
The home side delivered a commanding performance from the first whistle, securing a resounding 50–24 victory.
The Valke dominated from the outset, fortifying their backline to thwart the Leopards' attempts at running tries, while creating ample scoring opportunities for their forwards. Despite their efforts, the Leopards' defence struggled to contain the relentless pressure.
ALSO READ: Valke dominate Border Bulldogs with 72-28 win in SA Cup home finale
Leopards coach Riaan van Straten acknowledged his team's shortcomings but took heart from their improved second-half performance.
'We're obviously disappointed. We wanted to do better. We didn't start well, but we finished strong and played much better rugby in the second half,' said Van Straten.
'It was a game of two halves. The Valke won the first half 38–7; we won the second 17–12. We'll need to replicate our second-half effort from the start next time. Discipline and ball retention are areas that need serious attention.'
The Valke ran in six tries in the first half, including one by Mosolwa Mafuma, putting the visitors under immense pressure. A brief lapse allowed the Leopards to capitalise and score their first try, but the Valke still led comfortably at the break.
Valke head coach JP Immelman was pleased with the result and especially proud of the team's attacking execution.
ALSO READ: Valke stun Griffons with historic comeback win
'You don't just put 50 points on any team in this competition,' said Immelman.
'I'm proud of how we attacked and of the overall performance. The only downside was conceding three tries. That's something we'll work on. Still, it's great when the work you put in during the week pays off.'
Immelman highlighted improvements in controlling possession and territory, as well as dominance at set pieces. These were areas the team had targeted after a previous clash with the Leopards in the SA Cup six weeks ago.
'In the second half, we gave them too much ball and struggled to transition quickly from attack to defence,' he added.
The Leopards returned with renewed energy after half-time, quickly scoring a try and showing urgency in closing the gap.
However, the Valke struck back with a try from Sergio Stalmeester, maintaining their lead despite conceding the second half 12–17.
Leopards captain Ignatius Prinsloo expressed disappointment in the result but remained hopeful.
ALSO READ: Valke earns victory after beating Sanlam Boland Cavaliers
'It's tough to lose, but sometimes an early-season defeat is a blessing in disguise. We showed what we're capable of in the second half. We're a young squad with limited experience, so setbacks like this are part of our learning curve,' said Prinsloo.
With this win, combined with their opening-round victory over the NovaVit Griffons on June 14, the Valke remain unbeaten and top the First Division standings with 10 points. They are the only team yet to lose in the competition.
Individual performances were also recognised. Pierre Rabie was named Forward of the Match, Waqar Solaan took Back of the Match honours, and Zingisa April received the Player of the Match award.
Valke captain Andrew Volschenk praised his side's effort and composure.
'We led 38–0 at one point, gave away a try before half-time, and started the second half slowly, but we regrouped and finished strong. Winning 50–24 against the Leopards is a big achievement,' he said.
'It's always a privilege to play them. I'm a fan of theirs. This competition gives us great exposure and we're loving every minute of it.'
The Valke now prepare for tough fixtures against the Border Bulldogs, Phangela SWD Eagles and Eastern Province Elephants. With two convincing wins under their belt, they have emerged as strong contenders in the First Division.
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