Bulldogs ring changes for Welkom tie

THE Border Bulldogs have made six changes to their starting side for their final Currie Cup First Division pool stage match of the season against the Griffons in Welkom tomorrow.

Prop Yanga Xakalashe, hooker Ludwe Booi, flank Billy Dutton, eighthman Athenkosi Manentsa, outside centre Lundi Ralarala and wing Siphosenkosi Nofemele have all come into the run-on side

“Only one of our changes is injury enforced, Lunga Dumezweni picked up a shoulder injury last week, so Lundi has come back into the starting lineup,” said Bulldogs assistant coach Tiger Mangweni.

“The other changes are all rotational.This is most likely our last game of the season so we just want to make sure that everyone receives a good run out and gets in some game time.”

The Bulldogs are currently sixth on the first division log and still have a mathematical chance of making the semifinals.However it would take a good win over the Griffons and other results to go their way for them to sneak into the knockouts.

The task is all the more difficult playing the unbeaten defending champion Griffons away from home, who will be wanting to gain momentum to take into the semifinals.

“The Griffons are a very good side, they have had an impressive season and they will be a big challenge at home,” said Mangweni.

“But I think we have a good enough team to beat them.We have been building momentum over the last few games and these guys are excited for the match and want to get another win.”

It will also be a special occasion for Xakalashe and Ralarala who are making their 50th appearances for the Bulldog.

Bulldogs: Yanga Xakalashe, Ludwe Booi, Lwando Mabenge, Ayabonga Nomboyo, Hendri Storm, Onke Dubase, Billy Dutton, Athenkosi Manentsa, Bangihlombe Kobese, Sinovuyo Nyoka, Siyasanga Ncanywa, Siphosethu Tom (c), Lundi Ralarala, Siphosenkosi Nofemele, Sonwabiso Mqalo

Reserves: Mihlali Mpafi, Blake Kyd, Siyamthanda Ngande, Athenkosi Kethani, Lukhanyo Nomzanga, Lelethu Gcilitshane, Nkululeku Ndlovu.