FNB UNAM rugby regained the premier league title with a sensational 30 – 20 victory against Western Suburbs, at the Hage Geingob Stadium, on Saturday. This victory comes after fierce battles to cross the tri line more than the opponents, amidst robust defenses on both sides.
Western Suburbs opened the scoreboard, with a nifty try, six minutes into the game. This drive and determination carried Western Suburbs for the majority of the first half, as UNAM tried to find their feet.
Minutes before half-time, Delron Brandt, star of the game, steered UNAM to a 16-10 lead. This advantage, however, was short-lived, as Western Suburbs struck back minutes into the second half with a try and conversion, giving them a one-point lead. Shortly after, they managed to stretch their lead with four points, after a penalty.
With ferocious support from the crowd, UNAM managed to tie up their defense and steadily grind their way to victory. It took two penalty conversions and a massive try 60 minutes into the game to edge ahead of their opponents.
Cheers of ‘Here we go UNAM, here we go’, from the mainly UNAM crowd, spurred the team on during the last couple of minutes to hold on to their lead.
In a post-match interview, UNAM team captain, Alcino Izaacs, elatedly remarked that: “It was a wonderful game – tough, but wonderful”.
He continued to say:” The boys pulled through – they showed guts and determination! They also showed unbelievable enthusiasm throughout the season. This win is for UNAM.”
Echoing the same sentiments of pride and gratitude, was the UNAM lead Coach, Johan Diergaardt.
“We are very thankful that our boys could hang in there for 80 minutes. It was tough and it was hot, but I think it was the same for suburbs who really brought their A-game to us.”
The coach also elatedly remarked that” This is our fourth win from six finals and we are so happy!”
The day ended with tears of joy and happiness as UNAM regained its position at the top of the league, after having lost the championship title four years ago.
