Rhinos, Hogs reach league final

BOITUMELO KHUTSAFALO
Staff Writer | Monday August 13, 2012 00:00

 

The match lived up to its hype with the two sides not giving each other space. It was thrilling spectacle for supporters who came to the games in large numbers. UB Rhinos' Lesedi Keekae was instrumental for his side, converting two penalties  in the first half to give his side an early lead. Rhinos went into the half time break leading 6-3.

Cheetahs were dealt a heavy blow in their quest to reduce the deficit in the second half as Keekae scored a try just after the start of the second half. The try made it difficult for Cheetahs to come back although they kept fighting until the end. Rhinos coach Mooketsi 'Mox' Ramakele told The Sport Monitor in a post match interview that their strategy was to set the platform from the back although they had to make changes to their plan following two early injuries to their players. 'Before this game, we had not played a match in about two months, and we were a bit scrappy, committing silly mistakes.

We will work on those mistakes before the final,' he said. He said it was important that they watch the semi final between Hogs and EMG Gunners and explore their strengths and weaknesses. Hogs and Gunners were playing in the second semi-final at the same venue. Hogs beat Selebi Phikwe side, EMG Gunners 51-8 in a one sided match.The visiting side tried hard but were overwhelmed by the attacks launched by Hogs early in the game. By half time, Hogs were leading 29-3 and could have been more had they been more efficient going forward. 'We made a lot of mistakes, but the most important thing is that we came out victorious. We have to work on those mistakes before the final,' Hogs, captain, Bernie de Beer said after the match.

The final promises to be an enthralling spectacle if the past matches between the two sides is anything to use as a yardstick. Rhinos are the defending champions, having beaten Hogs in last year's final. Hogs had defeated UB Rhinos in the final of the same competition the previous year.