Jaguars Give SA Side Run For Money
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday February 13, 2017 15:40
Jaguars manager, Feddy Mutenheri told Monitor Sport after the match his charges proved their mettle. He said they identified a lot of things that they should work on such as ball retention. He said players were losing their balls during crucial moments when they were supposed to score a try.
“We realised that we were good at the running game than taking them head on because our opponents were bigger and stronger. This was an exciting game and it will assist us going into the league,” he said.
Mutendheri said they managed to go for the break without conceding a try, which was a big positive. He said it was a sign that Jaguars’ plan was working properly. He noted that the try they conceded after the break was from a mistake in his defence. Mutendheri said since it was the beginning of the year, players lacked fitness and conditioning. Mutendheri said the league preparations continue next weekend when they host Matebeleland rugby club from Zimbabwe. He said they expect the side to also give them the much needed competition. Zeerust coach, Kenny van der Merwe said he was impressed with the way Jaguars played. He said when they played Jaguars last year, the side was not that good and this time around they gave them stiff competition.
“We are from South Africa where rugby is big business. But for Jaguars to deny us a try in the first half it’s an indication that they are well coached,” he said.
Van deer Merwe said his players were rusty because the game was their first this year. He added that some of the players that won the league final last year were not present. Despite that, he said the squad he put out on the day brought the win, which was all they needed.
Van der Merwe said Jaguars should not lose focus and continue working hard and they will become a force to reckon with in Botswana rugby. The game was attended by the Botswana Rugby Union leadership including president Dave Gilbert. Before kick-off, Tlamelong Chiefs won a curtain raiser match beating LKC 5-0.
Zeerust 20
Jaguars 10