Wolhuter on target to keep Western Province on course

WESTERN Province continued their perfect start to the Currie Cup campaign as they edged their longstanding rivals, the Bulls, 41-33 in an enthralling encounter at Loftus Versfeld.

Western Province flyhalf Kade Wolhuter’s five penalties, which contributed to his 26-point haul, steered the Cape Town outfit to victory.

A rollercoaster firsthalf saw both sides trade tries with Sbu Nkosi, Cornal Hendricks and Zak Burger scoring for the Bulls while Paul de Wet and Wolhuter crossed for WP.

The hosts then gained ascendancy and led 33-25 with 20 minutes to go. But three late penalties from Wolhuter secured the victory for John Dobson’s side.

The bonus-point win ensures WP are yet to drop a point this season, leaving them level on points with the Pumas at the top of the table.

And for the Bulls, it’s a second straight defeat to open their campaign, leaving the eight-time champions with work to do.

Meanwhile, the Pumas snatched a dramatic 34-27 win over the Lions to also extend their unbeaten start to the campaign.

The defending champions, playing in their first home game of the season, led 17-3 going into the break before the Lions threatened to stage a tremendous second-half comeback.

Scoring in the 76th minute to level the scores, Lions fly-half Vaughen Isaacs missed the conversion which would have given the visitors the lead.

Isaacs then knocked on from the kickoff and Diego Appollis scored minutes later to give the Pumas their second straight win, sending them to the top of the table.

Two more games take place today to finish off round two as the Griquas host the Sharks while the Cheetahs, hoping to back up their impressive opening round win, visit the Griffons.