The 2023 Hollywood Foundation iQhawe Week is underway at Jeppe High School! Check out the latest from Day 4 here.
2023 Hollywood Foundation iQhawe Week
Day 3 Match Reports
3 October
Match 1: Eastern Province v Limpopo Blue Bulls
In an electrifying match, Eastern Province (EP) lived up to their former finalist status by delivering a stunning performance against newcomers Limpopo Blue Bulls. The EP team showcased their prowess, ultimately triumphing with a commanding scoreline of 84-0, leaving Limpopo Blue Bulls scoreless.
From the very start, EP displayed their dominance, with their experienced players leading the charge. The EP players exhibited exceptional skills, teamwork, and a strong desire to win, which kept the crowd on the edge of their seats throughout the match.
EP’s attacking game was relentless, with their forwards providing a solid platform and the backs executing precise plays that left the Limpopo Blue Bulls struggling to defend. The EP team scored a series of tries, and their accurate kicking added to their impressive point tally.
Defensively, EP was equally impressive, preventing the Limpopo Blue Bulls from making any significant inroads into their territory. The EP players’ commitment to maintaining a strong defensive line and their aggressive tackling shut down any potential opportunities for the newcomers.
For the Limpopo Blue Bulls, this match served as a valuable learning experience. While they may have been comprehensively beaten, they now have a clearer understanding of the level of competitiveness they need to achieve to succeed in this challenging Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week. With time, practice, and dedication, the Limpopo Blue Bulls will undoubtedly grow and improve their performance.
Overall, it was an exciting and one-sided match where EP showcased their rugby prowess, leaving the Limpopo Blue Bulls with a valuable lesson in the intensity and competitiveness of top-level rugby.
Match 2: South Western Districts (SWD) v Gauteng XV
In a dominating display of rugby prowess, former champions SWD (South-Western Districts) showcased their true colours by delivering a resounding defeat to the second newcomers to the Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week, the Gauteng XV. The final scoreline read an emphatic 50-0 in favour of SWD.
From the kick off, SWD asserted their dominance on the field, displaying their experience and skill in every aspect of the game. Their attack was relentless, and their defence seemed impenetrable throughout the match.
SWD’s backline orchestrated mesmerizing moves, while their forwards dominated in the scrums and lineouts. The combination of precise passing and powerful running resulted in a continuous barrage of tries that left the Gauteng XV struggling to find answers.
The Gauteng XV, although newcomers to the Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week, fought valiantly but found themselves outmatched by the seasoned SWD team. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to breach SWD’s solid defensive line or slow down their relentless offensive onslaught.
The match highlighted SWD’s pedigree as former champions, and they sent a clear message to their competitors that they are a force to be reckoned with in this tournament. With a 50-0 victory, SWD demonstrated their commitment to playing exciting rugby.
This impressive win will undoubtedly boost SWD’s confidence, while the Gauteng XV will need to regroup and learn from this experience as they continue their
journey in the tournament.
Match 3: Golden Lions v Boland
In a thrilling showdown at the Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week, the Golden Lions and Boland went head-to-head in a nail-biting contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The first half of the match saw both teams locked in a fierce battle, with neither side able to breach the opposing defence. However, it was in the second half that the game truly came to life.
Boland managed to break the deadlock with a spectacular try, igniting the crowd with their impressive display of skill and determination. The Golden Lions responded with two well-executed penalty kicks, showing their resilience and determination to take control of the match.
Despite the Lions’ valiant effort, it was Boland who emerged victorious, securing a narrow 7-6 win. The Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week had witnessed an epic clash between two formidable teams, with Boland ultimately claiming the hard-fought victory. Both sides demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the sport, making this match a memorable and closely contested battle for rugby enthusiasts everywhere.
Match 4: Blue Bulls v Leopards
In a thrilling and closely contested rugby match, the Blue Bulls clashed with the Leopards, delivering an intense battle of strength, strategy, and determination. Both teams displayed remarkable prowess in both their defensive and offensive efforts, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the game.
In the end, it was the Blue Bulls who emerged victorious, securing a hard-fought 14-10 win.
From the very start of the match, it was evident that neither team was willing to concede an inch to their opponents. The defensive lines held firm, making it challenging for either side to break through and score. Tackles were fierce, and turnovers were hard-earned, as the players showcased their commitment to defending their territory.
On the offensive front, both the Blue Bulls and the Leopards displayed skilful playmaking and strategic manoeuvres. They utilized their attacking formations effectively, attempting to breach the opposing defence. Each team had its moments of brilliance, with their backlines and forwards combining to create scoring opportunities.
As the match progressed, tension in the stadium continued to build. Fans from both sides were treated to an outstanding display of rugby, characterized by heart-stopping moments and close calls. The scoreboard remained tight throughout the contest, with only a few points separating the two teams.
In the end, it was the Blue Bulls who managed to secure a narrow 14-10 victory over the Leopards. Their ability to capitalize on key moments and maintain composure under pressure ultimately proved to be the difference-maker. The Leopards fought valiantly until the final whistle but fell just short of securing the win.
Match 5: Free State v KZN Sharks
In a thrilling rugby match the Free State Rugby Union secured a long-awaited victory by defeating the KZN Sharks with a final score of 12-0. The Free State team showed incredible determination and skill throughout the game, finally breaking their losing streak and delighting their supporters.
The first half of the match saw both teams battling fiercely for control of the game, with strong defence on both sides preventing any scoring opportunities. As the second half got underway, Free State came out with a renewed sense of purpose and quickly began to dominate the field.
Their offensive plays were well-executed, and they managed to break through the Sharks’ defence, scoring two tries, one conversion kick was successful, bringing their score to 12 points.
The KZN Sharks, despite their best efforts, struggled to gain momentum and were unable to respond with any points of their own. Free State’s defence remained solid, denying the Sharks any opportunities to score.
The match ended with Free State securing the elusive win, much to the delight of their fans who had been patiently waiting for this moment. The victory was a testament to their hard work, determination, and teamwork. This win will undoubtedly boost their confidence and morale as they look forward to future matches.
Match 6: Pumas v Griffons
In a thrilling match that took place on the last day of the Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week, the Griffons, considered the surprise package of the tournament, demonstrated their remarkable progress by defeating the Pumas with a final score of 12-3.
While the scoreline might appear modest, both teams left the fans thoroughly entertained with their captivating display of rugby. The Griffons’ performance in this match showcased the tremendous improvement they have made throughout the tournament, leaving spectators in awe of their skills and determination.
Despite the low-scoring nature of the game, the contest was filled with excitement and kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Griffons’ victory is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and commitment to the sport. This unexpected triumph will surely be remembered as one of the highlights of the Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week, and it underscores the importance of underdog teams in rugby, as they continue to surprise and delight fans with their exceptional performances.
Match 7: Falcons v Griquas
In a thrilling encounter on day three of the Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week, the Falcons and the Griquas treated the enthusiastic crowd to a spectacle of aggressive and attacking rugby.
The match was nothing short of royal entertainment for the spectators, with both teams displaying incredible skill and determination. Throughout the game, the Falcons and the Griquas battled fiercely, showcasing their prowess on the field. The intensity of the match kept fans on the edge of their seats as both teams exchanged blows, making it one of the best matches of the tournament.
As the clock ticked down and tension reached its peak, it was the Falcons who managed to secure victory with a dramatic, last gasp try. This decisive score in the dying moments of the game gave the Falcons a narrow but exhilarating 20-19 win over the Griquas.
The nail-biting nature of the match demonstrated the spirit of competition and the never-give-up attitude of both teams. It was a day of remarkable rugby, and the Falcons’ late heroics made it a memorable moment for their fans and the entire audience in attendance.
Match 8: Western Province v Border
In a highly anticipated clash between two tournament favourites, Western Province (WP) and Border rugby teams squared off in the Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week finals. The stage was set for an enthralling showdown, and the match did not disappoint as both teams displayed exceptional rugby skills and determination.
Ultimately, WP emerged victorious, securing a tight 12-5 win over Border. The game kicked off with an electric atmosphere, with both sets of supporters cheering on their
respective teams. It was evident from the start that this would be a closely contested battle, with both sides showing their defensive prowess.
Border drew first blood with a well-executed try, showcasing their clinical attack and teamwork. The conversion attempt was unsuccessful, putting Border ahead 5-0. WP, however, was not to be outdone and responded with a fierce offensive push. Their efforts paid off as they managed to breach Border’s defence, scoring a try of their own.
The second half of the match was equally intense, with both teams fighting tooth and nail for every inch on the field. The defensive efforts on both sides were outstanding, making it difficult for either team to break through. WP managed to extend their lead with another try, increasing their score to 12-5.
As the game approached its final minutes, Border desperately tried to mount a comeback, but WP’s defence remained resolute. WP securing a 12-5 win in the Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week finals.
The match was a testament to the talent and determination of both teams, showcasing the future stars of South African rugby. WP emerged as the champions of the tournament, while Border demonstrated their formidable skills throughout the competition.
Forward of the Tournament: Thabang Sekhonyana (Golden Lions)
Backline Player of the Tournament: Dalitso Milanzi (Pumas)
Player of the Tournament: Bongalethu Mxoli of Border
