SEDGEFIELD NEWS - The Pick n Pay Sedgefield Eagle Stars Rugby Club endured a difficult afternoon at the the Rec Sports Grounds in Oudtshoorn last Saturday, suffering defeats in both their A and B team encounters against the Oudtshoorn Rugby Club.
In the A team match, the Eagle Stars made an encouraging start and went into half-time trailing by only 14-10. However, Oudtshoorn produced a powerful second-half performance to secure a 42-24 victory.
The Eagle Stars scored three tries. Brendon Blouw crossed once and Dehan Maritz scored twice. Fullback Adriaan Konstable added three conversions and a penalty.
Despite their competitive first-half display, the Eagle Stars struggled to maintain their momentum after the break as Oudtshoorn increased the pressure and capitalised on their opportunities.
The Sedgefield coaching staff responded with several tactical changes, introducing Elrich Grootboom, Ru-Charn Petersen, Michael Whyne and Greg Grootboom during the second half in an attempt to regain control.
The B team match was a closely contested affair as the Eagle Stars trailled 19-16 at half-time before eventually going down 38-30.
The visitors showed plenty of attacking intent, scoring three tries. Greg Grootboom was the standout try-scorer with a brace, while Elzano London also crossed the line. Captain Chesco Julies contributed three penalties, with Grootboom adding two conversions.
Head coach Sheveque Terblanche said the double defeat was a setback, but both teams had shown encouraging signs during the matches.
The A1 side competed strongly in the opening half, while the A2 team maintained its attacking threat throughout the contest.
“The results will provide valuable lessons for us as we regroup with a focus on strengthening our defensive structures and improving our ability to close out matches after strong starts,” he said.
The club will now turn its attention to its next fixture as it looks to bounce back and continue building on its 2026 campaign.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
