Muir just pipped

Muir’s season kicked-off with a narrow 21-22 loss to Hudson Park of East London at the Graeme Rugby Day.  Both teams used their opportunities well and the spectators also enjoyed a running game full of excitement.

Hudson used their big forwards to maul over to score the first try of the game.  Muir responded with outside centre Jonathan Dos Santos crossing the line after his forwards had worked hard to cross the advantage line, giving him “go forward” ball.  Fullback Ruben De Vos kicked the conversion.  

Muir extended their lead after a kick was charged down, re-gathered, phases setup and eighth man Nkosi Ntebe forced his way over.  De Vos converted his second of the day.  

Hudson capitalised on two mistakes and their inside centre crossed the line for both occasions. Only one try was converted.  At the break Muir was trailing 14-17…

The second half started off as though there had been no break and both teams ran the ball and played to their structure.  Muir gained an advantage when inside centre Darren Wates broke the line, set up a few phases to draw in the defence and put Dos Santos way for his second.  De Vos was on song and converted his third.  Hudson used their forwards again to maul over for their fourth try and to take the game.

Players that stood out for the Muir side were lock pairing Lutho Njobe and Malusi Sitatu, Xolela Daniels. Jonathan Dos Santos and Darren Wates in the backs had a solid game.

Scorers:

For Muir

Tries: Jonathan Dos Santos    2, Nkosi Ntebe

Cons: Ruben De Vos 3

By Lyntin Gouws