Ithembe edged by Parktown in tough battle

• Published date: 07 May 2024
• Publication title: Herald, The (Port Elizabeth, South Africa)

The star of the match for Ithembe was diminutive flyhalf Mimi Mzala, who delivered a masterclass performance

Pinned down in their half by Parktown early in the game, Ithembe gained relief through some good touch finders by Mzala.

Though Parktown dominated the early scrums, Ithembe lock Aphiwe Dolophu and flank Lwando Gotyana won good ball in the line-outs, while the forwards’ efforts in stopping the Parktown driving mauls were effective.

Flank Banele Sadina, No 8 Mtha Dolonga and big prop Major Heleni carried well for Ithembe, but both sides showed solid defence.

After a five-metre scrum on their line, Dolonga scooped up possession when the ball spilled out and charged downfield, feeding scrumhalf Kale Mzantsi, and only desperate defence put him into touch.

Parktown knocked on at the line-out and from the ensuing scrum Ithembe put some good phases together for centre Liyema Natala to score an unconverted try in the corner.

Parktown then fought back with fire and keeping their opponents under pressure, they eventually scored a try to make it 5-5 at the break.

Ithembe began the second half in the best way when fullback Ata...