KNYSNA RUGBY NEWS - Knysna's representative team in the SWD Municipal Rugby Challenge stumbled to its second successive loss last weekend, furthering its poor start to the pilot of this new league, with a loss to Central Karoo.
Having travelled to Plettenberg Bay for a clash against Bitou in the first round of the league and suffering a last-minute loss, the Knysna squad made the 300km trip to Beaufort West with a very different side.
Only five players retained their starting positions from the week before, and there was also the addition of three Greater Knysna players on the bench who were eligible after the club's SWD suspension was lifted.
This new side would take on a Central Karoo side that was fresh off a first-round victory over Kannaland on a day when the Karoo heat was definitely a deciding factor in the encounter. Knysna would start the game off on a high, crossing the whitewash first, but this would be the extent of their dominance as Central Karoo's backline would outplay Knysna as the former's fly half Bradley Magerman from Prince Albert Rugby Club coordinated sharp attacks with pinpoint tactical kicking-in behind Knysna's defence.
The only other aspect of the game that enabled Knysna to match Central Karoo was in their forwards, managing to dominate their opposition during set pieces and open play. This wouldn't be enough for the Knysna side however, as Central Karoo was just too good for our municipal team, claiming a 45-31 victory.
Knysna's last away game of the inaugural municipal league will come against Kannaland, who they will be playing in Zoar – yet another 300km trip – before they'll return home for three straight home games to round out their campaign.
Heinrich Rooi raises his hands during a line-out to gather the ball. Photos: Vernie Solomons
Vaughin Avery attempts to shake off a Central Karoo tackler.
Richard Voorslag gives off a pop pass to Curt Ruiters.
Curt Ruiters prepares to go into contact.
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