SCHOOLS RUGBY
St Alban's strike late to earn a thrilling draw against Parktown
St Alban’s and Parktown played out a thrilling 24-24 draw this past weekend in a match that had everything, from early dominance and momentum swings to injury setbacks and late drama.
1st XV match report by Mr Lwazi Zangqa
(St Alban's College Director of Rugby)
St Alban’s could not have asked for a better start. Playing with intent from the opening whistle, they put Parktown under immediate pressure and were rewarded when Henk Luus reacted quickest to a loose bouncing ball to score the opening try. The hosts continued to apply pressure and soon doubled their advantage through another well-worked team effort. After several phases of attacking rugby, Luus showed great awareness to dummy just short of the line and cross for his second try of the afternoon.
Despite the fast start, Parktown demonstrated why they are such a dangerous side. Their first score came through a well-constructed multi-phase attack inside the St Alban’s 22, patiently building pressure before finding a way through. Their second score was the result of individual brilliance, as a moment of attacking flair brought them level. At halftime, the teams were locked together at 12-12.
The first half was made even more challenging for St Alban’s when captain Alex Uken was forced from the field within the opening five minutes. Matters became even more difficult shortly after the break when vice-captain Thabiso Simelane was also forced to leave through injury.
Despite losing two key leaders, St Alban’s showed tremendous character. They continued to carry strongly and impose themselves physically, finishing the game with 70 ball carries to Parktown’s 58 while enjoying 52% possession.
The hosts regained momentum early in the second half and crossed for another score to edge ahead. However, Parktown refused to go away and once again fought back, eventually taking a 24-19 lead as the match entered its closing stages.
With time already expired, St Alban’s launched one final attack. Showing the resilience and belief that had characterised their performance all afternoon, they worked their way into scoring position and crossed the line to level matters at 24-24. The conversion from the touchline would decide the match. Unfortunately, Buhle Qotywa was unable to convert the kick, leaving the scores level at the final whistle.
While the result may have felt bittersweet after coming so close to a memorable victory on Old Boys Day, there was much to admire in St Alban’s performance. To lose both the captain and vice-captain and still find a way to fight back and secure a draw speaks volumes about the character, depth, and determination within this group.
