Rhinos Gore Ryders In Delayed Clash
Tumelo Mouwane | Monday April 18, 2016 15:53
The match at Wharic Park on Saturday saw the second half commence 30 minutes late while Molepolole women’s rugby team failed to honour their fixture against the Hogs women’s team. Hogs were awarded 28 points.
Officials said the game could not continue in the absence of medical assistance since there was only one ambulance on standby. The ambulance had left the pitch to rush Ryder’s player, Odirile Mogatusi to hospital after sustaining what appeared to be a serious injury.
On the pitch, Rhinos were just too strong. They led 39-0 as the teams went for break before sealing a 63-0 win. Ryders have been at the receiving end of heavy defeats this season after they were walloped 93-0 by Jaguars.
It took Rhinos only three minutes to score the opening try. Ryders tried to respond as they were pinned in their own half. Tebogo Themba made several attempts to pierce through Rhinos backline, but his attempts were futile as Rhinos halted all attempts. Ryders’ Tefo Ramonaka and Themba were sent off following an argument with the referee.
UB Rhinos head coach, Munyaradzi Mhonda said they gave their opponents respect, but had a game plan that delivered the win.
“It is one of those unfortunate incidents where we had to put players’ safety first. In the past, one ambulance was enough but it is no longer safe to use one ambulance, especially when you are going to play more than one game, we hope this improves,” he said, regarding the second half delay.
Ryders coach, Tendai Mujaji also expressed displeasure over the delay.
“My team had challenges. We just had too many injuries. The day was just not ours. I believe the (medical) issue was not addressed properly. There were two medics who were taking care of the players and it was not enough. My players stood there for a while without proper attention, this should be addressed,” he said.