Uni-Mil triumph over Brackies in SLA clash

Lonwabo Marele|Published

Leon Carstens rallies the team at half-time during his 100th cap celebration, as Uni-Mil lead 17-14. Picture: Lonwabo Marele

Union-Milnerton Rugby Club celebrated a significant victory against Brackenfell Rugby Club in their Super League A clash at the Theo Marais sports complex on Friday night, July 26.

Despite the wet and windy conditions, a dedicated crowd witnessed club captain Leon Carstens earn his 100th cap in spectacular style.

Uni-Mil secured a 29-14 win, with Carstens scoring the final try, which not only sealed the victory but also earned a crucial bonus point.

“We had a bit of a scrappy win, however, we've got the five points, which was highly needed. I was able to get the bonus point try and this also added to making the 100th cap even more special,” says Carstens.

“We have a tough game ahead of us (against False Bay), but we can take destiny into our own hands to set ourselves up well for the play-offs. We need to focus on each game individually and take it week by week, we cannot get ahead of ourselves.”

Coach Isma-eel Dollie congratulated the club on the win, Carsten’s dedication on his 100th match, as well as Uni-Mil and Brackenfell’s good spirit in helping to sell socks and donate funds towards combating cancer.

“It was a great initiative from both clubs. That is essentially what sport is about. At amateur and community level our impact is much bigger than just playing the game itself.”

The victory moves Uni-Mil up to second place on the log, just behind Hamilton Rugby Club. Having won nine out of their 12 matches so far, Uni-Mil is set to face a tough away game against False Bay next.

Leon Carstens celebrates his 100th cap with a decisive try, leading Uni-Mil to victory over Brackenfell, at the Theo Marais sports complex, on Friday night, July 26. Picture: Lonwabo Marele
Brackenfell vice captain and flyhalf Hendrick Mulder kicks for touch against Uni-Mil. Picture: Lonwabo Marele
Brackenfell's inside center Ryno Marais looks on as his teammate kicks for posts during their Super League A defeat to Uni-Mil on Friday night in Milnerton. Picture: Lonwabo Marele
Uni-Mil huddle together during a pivotal half-time talk, expanding their lead to secure a 29-14 victory over Brackenfell.
Uni-Mil scrumhalf Lucky Dlepu expertly set up plays, driving the team to a 29-14 victory over Brackenfell. Picture: Lonwabo Marele
Versatile backline player Lyle Hendricks played a key role in driving Uni-Mil forward with his impressive ball-handling skills. His performance will be crucial as the team prepares for their upcoming match against False Bay. Pictures: Lonwabo Marele