Now redemption time for Eagles

BLACK Eagles aim to use their SuperSport Rugby Challenge Festival game against Ntlaza Lions at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane tomorrow to bounce back after struggling in the Border Super League.

The Super League newcomers who are based in Mazikhanye in Tsholomnqa are second from the bottom of the log-standings after playing seven games. They have since won only one game against University of Fort Hare Blues.

Eagles team manager Sivuyile Moshani thinks that’s why winning the game against Lions was of utmost importance to their campaign. “We have been having a hard time in the league since we started – so winning the game is our number one priority. And then other things will follow after that, like selling ourselves to the country.

“Because this game will be live on television, so we will try and impress people who might be interested in joining the team – in terms of sponsorships and so forth,” said Moshani.

He said as they were based in a rural area without any financial backing they were struggling as they have to travel to honour games, but were fighting for six position on the logstandings.

“Things like team jerseys are some of the things we need help with. So this will be a golden opportunity for us to sell the quality that we have and I can tell you now that the boys will be a tough side to crack.

“And if we win this game will be in a good position, we might even get into to the six teams and play the Super 12 tournament.

“Because we still going to play against Berlin Tigers, Winter Rose, Buffaloes and if we win all of these games we’ll be in the Super 12.”

Eagles will be going into this without two of their most influential players who carried them in the Sunday League. Prop Michael Kaweni and number eight Zamani Velaphi will be watching from the bench as they still nursing their injuries.

“Those players have had an impact in the team since our days of playing in the Sunday League. But we are prepared for this and that will be evident on the field.

“People should come out and watch us play good rugby, Ntlaza can’t beat us at home.

“We’ve seen they play and how they won’t bring any threats to us as we know them.”