The stage was set for an unforgettable showdown last Saturday afternoon. St Andrew’s College KWeek has been a resounding success, culminating in an exhilarating rugby fixture that did not disappoint. St Andrew’s College hosted Kingswood College, PJ Olivier, and Nathaniel Nyaluza in what turned out to be a spectacular day of rugby.

St Andrew’s College teams have been diligently working to revive the proud tradition of rugby that has been synonymous with our school for many years. Their efforts were on full display this Saturday, showcasing fantastic running rugby and scoring some truly beautiful tries. We’re regaining our momentum.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the 1st XV match, which was a real nail-biter! Kingswood initially controlled possession, but St Andrew’s College struck first against the run of play when Guy Fraser crossed the line, with Ali de Kock converting the try. Kingswood responded swiftly with a converted try of their own. Undeterred, College stuck to their game plan and surprised Kingswood with their relentless attack. Julian Mapoore’s dazzling break up the left flank, culminating in Karabo van Heerden’s try in the corner, showcased our team’s resilience. Kingswood managed a penalty just before halftime, leaving the score at 12-10.

The second half was a fierce battle for possession and territory, with both teams creating opportunities but struggling to convert them. Kingswood eventually took the lead with a try from a scrum deep in College’s 22-meter area. With only 9 minutes left on the clock, Ali de Kock narrowed the gap to 2 points with a crucial penalty, making it 15-17 and setting the stage for a thrilling finish.

With just 4 minutes remaining, Kingswood seemed to seal the game with a try, but a missed kick kept St Andrew’s College’s hopes alive. In the final moments, our team showed incredible composure, forcing an error from Kingswood off the restart. In a stroke of brilliance, Ali de Kock executed a perfectly placed kick behind Kingswood’s defense, setting up Karabo van Heerden for a dramatic try. Ali then calmly converted, and the game ended in a thrilling 22-22 draw.

It was an outstanding KDay, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved who made it possible. Behind every great event like this lies a tremendous amount of effort, and each person deserves recognition for contributing to such a memorable day of rugby.

Mr Jonny Mallett

Results:

• 1st XV: 22-22 drew
• 2nd XV: 48 – 22 won
• 3rd XV: 31 – 17 won
• 4th XV: 29 – 19 won PJ Olivier
• U16A: 34 – 11 won
• U16B: 24 – 12 won Nathnal Nyaluza
• U15A: 26 – 12 won
• U15B: 12 – 0   won PJ Olivier
• U15C: 2 – 0 won
• U14A: 36 – 0 won
• U14B: 6 – 14 lost PJ Olivier

(All other matches vs Kingswood College)