Kempton came to the graveyard unprepared – ER United coach
East Rand United sent out their biggest statement yet in their quest to win this year’s Valke Merlin League, with a 104-7 rout over Kempton Park, in Reiger Park.
United ran in 16 tries against a much changed Kempton outfit, in a match that saw more than half of the United team dot down for a five-pointer.
Asked for his thoughts on the match, which took place on Saturday, June 27, United coach Derick Sampson kept his response brief.
“They came to the graveyard unprepared,” he said.
The mentor then proceeded to give his thoughts on his team’s showing.
“The performance was good on the day. We didn’t want to take the game lightly. We had to show we are contenders for the cup. The idea was to put a 100 against them so we got that idea right,” he said.
According to the United camp, most of the visitors’ premier XV failed to show up for the game – a situation that forced Kempton to run out with a depleted team.
And United ensured that they made them pay for this, as they subjected them to a cricket score defeat.
The match was all but over after the first 40 minutes, as Sampson’s men took a ridiculous 68-0 lead into the half-time break.
United added 36 more points in the second half, before the referee prematurely ended the match with a little over 10 minutes remaining, with the result well over, beyond doubt.
Kempton had just seven points to show for their travels from their solo converted try.
Asked for his reflection on the encounter, United captain Jonathan Botha believes his side sent out a stern warning to their rivals for league honours.
“I think it’s a job well done [from the team], it’s a statement made to anybody who wants to take up ERU easily. I’m very proud of the boys pulling a huge win in only a 70-minute game,” he said.
“I think Kempton took us up as the underdogs, but we were prepared and humble and made our statement.”
The Kempton Park management could not be reached for comment on why they fielded a depleted team. The Advertiser will release their response as soon as possible.
Scorers:
United: tries: Dominique Perries, Raydall Walters, Gamat Ndanda (2), Jackie Jonkers (2), Dustin Losch (2), Clayton Gindon (2), Jonathan Botha (c)(2), Carlon Carolissen (2), Reagan Fourie (2).
Conversions: Clayton Gindon (12). – @SabeloBoksburg
