The Derby season is no secret to the students of Stellenbosch University (SU). With one goal: victory, the men of Eendrag and Helshoogte came prepared. Two of the teams’ sporting fixtures caught the spotlight this past week!
The first of the two fixtures was the hockey match on 14 August. Spectators, who were decked out in respective community colours, spread the gees with their resounding echoes of support, and warcries. The energy of the crowd spurred on the men of orange and blue to push harder, run faster and execute sharper passes.
When a short corner was awarded, the defending side (Helshoogte) crowded into the goal box, waiting for the whistle before charging out to block the shot, but despite their effort, Eendrag’s number 9 managed to score the first of their goals.
With four quarters of 12 minutes each, it was a high-paced game with strong defence strategies from Eendrag and brilliant passing tactics from Helshoogte. The game ended with an ultimate victory of 3-0 for Eendrag.
The second fixture, a rugby game on 15 August, left both teams’ supporters in anticipation. The men of Helshoogte came ready to support their friends and co-residents on the field – chanting louder than the men decked out in orange. The excitement from the stands flowed out onto the field and it wasn’t long before the blue team scored their first try.
With a few penalty kicks, close calls and tension-filled conversations between the players, the game was nothing short of entertaining.
One intercept, in particular, caught the attention of everyone present. 12 minutes into the second half, a Helshoogte player intercepted an Eendrag pass – ran from the 45 meter line – and scored another try. In the end, the win went to Helshoogte (17-7).
Two games, two winners, two proud residences!
By Anica Hattingh
