It is not often you get to face a once in a generation team, a fate that has plagued every KZN team this year. Although the DHS team never lacked for effort, they were completely outclassed in a result that was always going to be a reality if we didn’t execute our game-plan effectively. The final score saw Glenwood run away 55-12 victors and make amends for “School’s” stunning victory in the same fixture last year. The DHS team did not perform to the usual standards expected and their young team found it difficult to limit their error rate in the game. This gifted Glenwood numerous opportunities to score. Although DHS responded with two tries of their own they were unable to convert some clear-cut chances early in the game which could have seen a different story being told.
DHS were able to construct some good set pieces and credit must go to the forwards who held their own. However, as with every team Glenwood has played this year, their backline sporting 7 Craven week players including two SA Schools players were rampant and were in fine form on the day.
Although, players like hooker Stoney Stenekamp and Craven week flanker Asande Mnguni fought hard, it was not enough for DHS to offer a consistent threat. Winger Malusi Ntuli scored a try early in the 2nd half to make the score 27-7 at the time and give DHS a faint glimmer of hope. However, that hope was extinguished straight away as Glenwood responded with another well worked try. The final DHS try came from a superb break and offload from Captain Celimpilo Gumede which allowed pacey winger Ulrich Brown to race away for their final try. It was to be a consolation but highlighted the endless effort displayed by the DHS team.
As with most losses, the young DHS side will learn some valuable lessons from the game and no doubt come back stronger for it.
Scott Mathie
1st XV Rugby Coach
Head of Rugby