Raiders beat United in friendly
Raiders, who are based in Longdale, Johannesburg, play their domestic rugby in the Pirates Grand Challenge.
Raiders Rugby Club and East Rand United finally got some game time under their belts as they clashed in a friendly encounter at Prince George Park on February 15.
The travellers, who were more assertive and clinical, particularly in the opening half, came away with a 33-7 win against a brand-new United side in search of numerous aspects of their game, including identity.
The encounter, which was supposed to take place at United’s home base, The Graveyard in Reiger Park, was moved to United’s rivals’ home ground, PG Park, because The Graveyard was being utilised for cricket.
Quizzed on the game, United assistant coach Godfrey Mbange commented: “We haven’t had a full training session with a full squad yet, thus we had one week to prepare for the game.
“In the first half we had no direction, but in the second half we were much better. Our finishing just let us down.
“The more time we spend together, things like our running lines and skills will improve. But from what I saw in the second half, I’m happy. I’m happy for the season ahead.”
The winning coach, Fernando Penshaw, said: “Both teams were playing their first game of the year and the score had little importance because the goal was to build match fitness.
“We were happy at how we attacked and defended. We stuck to our game.”
United head coach Alvandre Maart could not be reached for comment.
