Narrow win for Super 12 champs

GARDENS narrowly edged Spring Rose 15-12 in a closely contested President's Cup at the New Brighton Oval at the weekend.

The game started with both sides on the offensive, but their defences stood firm and managed to keep their opponents at bay.

Both sides went into the game high in confidence after finishing the first round of the EP Grand Challenge with victories.

Playing in front of their supporters, Rose had a slim 7-6 half-time lead in the Group A clash.

The second half was not any different as neither side wanted to budge. But a further nine points sealed the win for the Eastern Cape Super 12 champions.

In Zwide, the referee had to end the game between African Bombers and Harlequins 10 minutes into the second half after a fight broke out.

The visitors went into the game wanting to claim a second consecutive game after an emphatic victory against Park in their opener the previous week.

The northern areas side made their intentions known early in the game, but good defending from Bombers kept the score to 5-0 in favour of Quins after 40 minutes.

Only 10 minutes into the second stanza a fight broke out, forcing the referee to end the game, fearing things might get out of control.

Gap Despatch had their easiest five points ever when Park sent the points in advance, resulting in the game not being played.

The game between Caltex Crusaders and the Brumbies was also cancelled because of logistical problems. - Mkhululi Ndamase