3 things we learnt from Round 3 of the Rainbow Cup SA
Round 3 of the Rainbow Cup SA produced high-drama, a half of utter dominance and the potential birth of a new local rugby star.
Here are the three things we learnt from Round 3 of the Rainbow Cup SA.
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1. IT IS NEVER OVER UNTIL THE FINAL WHISTLE HAS BLOWN
Not even after the siren has sounded.
The Lions learnt this lesson the hard way. They led 37-29 after 76 minutes, ahead by more then a converted try with less than 5 minutes on the clock.
They conceded a breakaway try that was converted in the 78th minute, bringing the Stormers to within a point with (37-36) with 2 minutes to play.
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During this time, the Lions tried to wind down the clock, keeping it tight between their forwards.
Ironically, this resulted in Hershel Jantjies turning the ball over at the breakdown which led to a penalty for the visitors.
Tim Swiel then broke the hearts of the Johannesburg outfit when he slotted the penalty to win 39-37, stealing the victory from the grasp of the Lions who had seemed to have the game won.
2. JORDAN HENDRIKSE – REMEMBER THE NAME
The 19-year-old had an exceptional outing playing with the confidence of an experienced veteran.
Hendrikse dictated the game by commanding his backline, kicking excellently – showcasing his powerful right boot!
The Lions pivot took on the Stormers backline at will, looking dangerous whenever he decided to run. He controlled play when the Lions needed him to as well.
Hendrikse put to bed the Lions concerns at 10. If this display is anything to go by, we may have a future star in our midst.
3. JAKE WHITE’S BULLS CONTINUE TO BULLY THE OTHER SA SIDES
Super Rugby Unlocked, Currie Cup champions and currently undefeated in the Rainbow Cup.
They have conceded just one try in their three matches against the other franchises to date and have been dominant over the other South African franchises.
White’s Bulls were expected to be in a tight tussle against the in-form Sharks and were after 40 minutes. The half-time score was 12-9.
Then, the Bulls showed SA rugby why they are so successful under White.
Scoring 31 unanswered points against a well organised Sharks side made to look mediocre.
Their forwards bullied the Sharks tight-five into submission as they had done to them and many before them before. The Pretoria-based franchise has physically enforced themselves defensively and in the scrums, rucks and mauls.
Annihilating any side that attempts to turn the game into a physical contest.
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