Rhinos barrel way to top spot in second round

RESERVOIR Hills Rhinos’ red-hot form has continued. Last week, they thumped the Jaguars by 97-7 at the Sirpat Road Sports Complex.

Their humbling of the Ryan Naidoocoached team means they now head into the second round of the KZN Rugby Union CF Glew 5th Division in top spot, 12 points clear of second placed Queensburgh.

Following their win against Queensburgh in their previous match, Rhinos’ coach Andrew Osborn selected a strong forward pack. Their game plan to out-muscle the Jaguars’ front men and unleash their dangerous back line was clear from the start.

The game started at a cracking pace with the Rhinos forwards bossing their opposite numbers. The Jaguars’ defence buckled under the onslaught and the floodgates opened.

Returning from injury, Kamal Shetu crossed the whitewash twice with Sihle Buthelezi, James Bennett, Lapzen Matsoso and Mpatho Shange scything through in quick succession with tries.

The Rhinos were even more ruthless in the second half. They regularly punched holes in the

Jaguars’ defence. The home team scored seven more tries before the final whistle was blown.

Last weekend’s win was their sixth in a row as they remain undefeated this league season.

Rhinos chairman Niren Misra said the team has a clear mandate: promotion at the end of this season.

“We learnt many valuable lessons after a horrible run last year. During our off-season we worked hard on identifying our faults and putting structures in place to allow for a smoother-functioning club. Our main intention was to provide a hassle-free rugby experience for our players.

“We have a four-year plan and this is step one. With the dedication and commitment we’ve already seen from our players, staff and sponsors, I have high hopes we can achieve much.”