RUGBY WRAP: Pumas make Currie Cup history; SA U20 off to winning ways and Montpellier crowned champions of France

Pumas beat Griquas in riveting Kimberley Currie Cup final

The Pumas became the eighth union to hoist the Currie Cup after seeing off Griquas 26-19 at Tafel Lager Park on Saturday. Jimmy Stonehouse’s men, who have often punched above their weight since the former Mr South Africa took over the reins, were finally rewarded for their inspiring performances, with the side formerly known as South Eastern Transvaal claiming a maiden win in the prestigious competition.

The visitors were a cut above Griquas on the day, with Pieter Bergh’s boys seemingly overawed by the sense of occasion — this being the union’s first final appearance since 1970, and in Kimberley to boot. The Pumas were dominant on the day, leading 18-9 at the break and never looking like letting the hosts back into it.

SA U20 see off England in opener

The Junior Boks saw off the challenge of England U20 30-22 in the first match of the U20 Summer Series in Verona on Friday. The win, thanks in large part to a brace from Suleiman Hartzenberg, sets the team up nicely with matchups against Ireland and France still to come. Bafana Nhleko’s men led 10-7 at the break and did well to maintain the upper hand til the end.

In other results, France outshone Ireland 42-21, hosts Italy beat Georgia 36-19 and Wales smashed Scotland 45-15.

Montpellier bag first Top 14 title

Montpellier finally got the monkey off their back by claiming a first Top 14 championship thanks to a comprehensive 29-10 win over Castres at the Stade de France on Friday. Les Cistes had fallen to the same opponents in the 20108 final, but did well to come out of the blocks firing and outscore the table-toppers three tries to one.

Montpellier started the match with Jan Serfontein in midfield, while fellow Saffas Handre Pollard, Nico Janse van Rensburg and Robert Rodgers warmed the bench. The injured Cobus Reinach was unable to participate.

Rugby Stunners

Pure emotion from Pumas

The emotion was palpable after the final whistle as the Pumas celebrated their maiden Currie Cup title in Kimberley.