Masi Bounces back with clean sweep at home
Masi Wing, Gregory Cleophas, stepping his way through the defence during his side's 21-15 home victory against Morning Star RFC.
Image: Jan Engelbrecht
Patrick Nuthall
Masiphumelele Rugby Club bounced back with purpose on Saturday, delivering a clean sweep across all three teams as they hosted Durbanville's Morningstar RFC, at Noordhoek sportsground in the latest round of the Western Province Top 9 Club Rugby competition.
The day kicked off positively, with the 3rd team setting the tone for the afternoon with a tightly contested 12–7 win. The momentum continued as the Second team followed with a spirited 17–14 victory. Tries came courtesy of Lolita Lolli and Khanyiso Doyi, with Dylan Malander slotting two conversions and adding a crucial penalty to edge Masi ahead.
In the main fixture, the First team took to a wet and heavy field, facing a determined Morningstar side. The visitors struck early, scoring two tries and a conversion to take a 12–0 lead. However, Masiphumelele remained composed and slowly worked their way back into the game.
Masi's Siyabonga "Gas" Mbali crashes over for the line for the first of his two tries in the weekend's victory over Morningstar RFC
Image: Jan Engelbrecht
A powerful close-range try by Siyabonga “Gas” Mbali, converted by replacement flyhalf Khanyiso Doyi, narrowed the gap. From there, Masi found their rhythm, growing in confidence and producing some attractive attacking rugby. A brilliant try from Manelisi Mbana, followed by a second try from Mbali, turned the game in Masi’s favour. Both were converted by the dependable Doyi, taking the final score to 21–15.
It was a hard-fought and well-earned result that showcases the depth and determination within the club.
Masi next host Watsonians on Saturday, July 26, at Noordhoek sports fields. First game kicks off is at 1.30pm, with the First XV in action at 4pm.
Patrick Nuthall is a member of Masi RFC