The recent derby which saw East Rand United make the short trip to their neighbours TW Boksburg at Prince George Park had all the makings of a spectacle and was one of the better club rugby games I’ve witnessed.
United scored seven tries compared to Boksburg’s three, including a penalty try to earn a well-deserved 48-24 bonus-point victory.
United also brought an entourage of fans who not only made their voice heard but made a significant contribution in giving the match the derby feel. Even the Boksburg supporters lauded the Reiger Park faithful for their spirit and constant cheering.
So the meeting had everything a rugby lover wants to see, including yours truly: it had tries, it had supporters, it had talented players on display on either side; it had drama (even an official went down in the second-half to what I suspect was a cramp), and most importantly, it had a top-drawer officiating.
The one thing that the game lacked, despite the supporters who made the trip from Reiger Park, was bums on seats.
The spaces on the grandstand were so glaring I couldn’t help but notice on my arrival. I made my way to Prince George nice and early to find myself a comfortable spot and settle down and to make sure I do not miss a second.
What’s more concerning is that the absence of support was more from the home side – and had a visitor in Boksburg gone to watch the game – they would guess that United was the home side.
Tiffney Barker, the girlfriend of Boksburg prop forward Henrico Thorpe, said: “I really enjoyed the vibe and atmosphere but I would like to see more supporters, especially for Boksburg. The place (Prince George Park) used to be so packed that you wouldn’t even find parking. I want it to be like it used to be.”
So the obvious question is: What happened to Owl rugby’s passionate supporters?
I’m certain it cannot be the entrance fee at the gate as it was only R10 after all. And to be quite frank, considering the rugby that was on display – the charged amount was more than generous.
I can also guess that there was nothing better on television playing during the encounter because rugby lovers in this side of town are mostly Lions supporters and the 2017 Super Rugby finalists were not in action.
Whatever the reason is, it is apparent that the Owls faithful are unhappy about something and with supporters being the pillar of any club, the onus is on the Prince George Park outfit to attend to the issue.
Maybe the club can do a survey on the topic?
The TW Boksburg Rugby Club is 115 years old this year and my time covering the club is not even a tenth of its time of existence – it’s a club with abundant heritage – and from a personal viewpoint, and for the love of the game I share with the very Owls supporters, it would be great to see more bums on seats at the iconic venue again.
Also read: Manchester derby takes on a different hue as City falters in midweek
