St Mark’s win Alicedale Cup

In a highly anticipated and entertaining Alicedale Derby, St Marks got a hard-fought 18-9 win against Rosebuds on Saturday.

The derby lived up to expectations and produced some good running rugby as St Marks claimed bragging rights to take the tournament trophy at the ceremony held after the game.

Until the dying minutes, it was still anyone’s game to win, but St Marks made more use of their opportunities. Rosebuds backs were dangerous on attack with ball in hand and crossed the advantage line on numerous occasions. St Marks dominated at scrums and the line out mauling drives.

Andre Pony scored from a quick tap for St Marks, while Ettienne Sias slotted a first half penalty to make it 8-0 at halftime.

Rosebuds came back strong- ly with three penalties in the second half by Lance Louw to narrow matters. But a try by Danwyn Jewel, St Marks captain, kept his side in the lead, 13-9.

Cole Kirkwood scored in the last few minutes of play, the left hand corner, to secure victory for his side, and to be crowned Alicedale Derby Cup Champions.

Rosebuds 1st Reserves won 47-3 while Rosebuds 2nds won 28-25.