The Sanlam Boland Kavaliers produced a stunning second-half performance to snatch a 29-26 victory over the Airlink Pumas at Mbombela Stadium on Friday night. Trailing 21-3 at halftime, Boland mounted a remarkable comeback to secure their place at the top of the Carling Currie Cup log.
Pumas Dominate Early On
The Pumas started strongly, eager to rebound from a narrow defeat the previous week. Coach Jimmy Stonehouse, relying on home advantage and a powerful forward pack, saw his team race into a commanding lead. Scrumhalf Ross Braude scored two tries, while hooker Eddie Swart added another, giving the Pumas a seemingly unassailable advantage.
Boland's Discipline Lapses
Boland struggled with discipline in the first half, with both flyhalf James Tedder and flanker Khwezi Mafu receiving yellow cards. Adding to their woes, in-form flyhalf Ashlon Davids was forced off with an injury, replaced by Juan Mostert.
Kavaliers Unleash Second-Half Fury
Whatever Coach Hawies Fourie said at halftime clearly worked wonders. Boland emerged a transformed team, displaying renewed energy and determination. Winger Marcqiewn Titus scored in the corner, followed by a dazzling try from Xavier Mitchell after a break from Juan Mostert and Erik Lamprecht. Tighthead prop Dayan van der Esthuizen then bulldozed over, bringing Boland within striking distance.
Dramatic Finish Seals Victory
With momentum firmly on their side, Boland completed the comeback in dramatic fashion, earning a penalty try in the dying minutes to seal a memorable victory. The Kavaliers' resilience and never-say-die attitude proved too much for the Pumas to handle.
What's Next?
The Pumas will travel to Cape Town to face Western Province, while Boland head to Durban for a clash with the Sharks. Fans can expect more thrilling Currie Cup action in the weeks to come!