Bok Women dominate Kenya in commanding victory.
Solid performance showcases team’s resilience and maturity.
Jakkie Cilliers shines with hat-trick of tries.
South Africa’s depth secures comprehensive win.
Dominance at Stade Makis
In an anticipated clash at Stade Makis in Antananarivo, the Bok Women showcased their prowess against Kenya, delivering a commanding performance that solidified their reputation as a formidable force in women’s rugby. Throughout the match, South Africa demonstrated control and determination, dictating the tempo and imposing their game plan on the opposition.
Solidity Over Spectacle
While the Bok Women were undoubtedly dominant, their performance leaned more towards solidity than spectacle. Despite occasional over-eagerness leading to turnovers and lapses in set-piece dominance, the team maintained composure and adaptability, adjusting their strategy as needed to counter Kenya’s defensive efforts. This display of maturity and resilience underscores the team’s growth and development on the international stage.
Key Players Shine
Several standout performances defined South Africa’s victory. Lusanda Dumke and Vainah Ubisi led the charge in the forward pack, demonstrating power and determination with each carry. However, it was Jakkie Cilliers who stole the show, delivering a masterful performance at outside centre. Despite challenging conditions, Cilliers exhibited exceptional skill and precision, contributing 23 points through a hat-trick of tries and four conversions. Her performance epitomized the team’s commitment to excellence and their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
First Half Challenges and Momentum Shift
The first half presented its challenges for the Bok Women, as they struggled initially to find their rhythm. Unforced errors and lapses in set-piece execution hindered their progress, allowing Kenya to maintain defensive pressure. However, South Africa gradually found their stride, with debutant wing Sikholiwe Mdletshe and Cilliers capitalizing on attacking opportunities to secure crucial tries. By halftime, the Bok Women had established a commanding lead of 34-5, setting the stage for a dominant second half.
Second Half Domination
With momentum on their side, the Bok Women continued their dominance into the second half. The introduction of fresh legs injected renewed energy into the lineup, as Nomawethu Mabenge wasted no time in making her mark with a try early in the half. Cilliers continued to shine, completing her hat-trick and extending South Africa’s lead. Lindelwa Gwala’s contributions further underscored the team’s depth, as her maul tries highlighted the pack’s dominance in the forward exchanges.
Closing Moments and Final Score
As the match drew to a close, the Bok Women maintained their intensity and focus, culminating in a comprehensive victory over Kenya. Mabenge’s second try in the final minute of the match further solidified South Africa’s dominance, pushing the final score to 63-5. The result not only reaffirmed the Bok Women’s status as a force to be reckoned with in women’s rugby but also provided valuable momentum as they continue their campaign on the international stage.
Scorers and Summary
Springbok Women 63 (34) – Tries: Lusanda Dumke, Sikholiwe Mdletshe (2), Jakkie Cilliers (3), Vainah Ubisi, Nomawethu Mabenge (2), Lindelwa Gwala (2). Conversions: Jakkie Cilliers (4).
Kenya 5 (5) – Try: Rose Otieno.
The Bok Women’s commanding victory over Kenya showcased their strength, skill, and determination, setting a strong foundation for future success in women’s rugby.
Players who made headlines
Jakkie Cilliers led with 23 points: hat-trick plus four conversions.
Lusanda Dumke and Vainah Ubisi showcased dominance in the forward pack.
Sikholiwe Mdletshe made her mark with two tries.
Nomawethu Mabenge scored 14th try in her 18th Test appearance.
Lindelwa Gwala’s maul tries highlighted pack’s forward dominance.
