The Pick n Pay Women’s Super League 1 is heating up as the competition nears its conclusion. This past weekend saw crucial victories for the Sanlam Boland Dames and the Golden Lions Women, while the Isuzu Bulls Daisies continued their dominant run and the EP Queens secured a commanding win in an Eastern Cape derby. These results are reshaping the league standings with only one round of matches remaining before potential playoff berths are decided.
The Sanlam Boland Dames delivered a significant upset, defeating their Western Cape rivals, DHL Western Province, 21-15. This win propels Boland into second place on the log, setting the stage for a potential final against the league-leading Isuzu Bulls Daisies in two weeks. Elsewhere, a late try secured a narrow 19-18 victory for the Golden Lions Women against the Sharks Women in Durban.
Boland Dames Secure Crucial Victory Over Western Province
At Boland Stadium in Wellington, the Sanlam Boland Dames showcased their resilience and tactical prowess to overcome DHL Western Province. The 21-15 victory wasn’t just a derby win. it was a strategic move that shifted the balance of power in the Pick n Pay WSL 1 standings. The Dames’ three tries to Western Province’s two were enough to secure the win and climb into second place.
The match was a tightly contested affair, characterized by a fast pace and intense physicality. Felicia Jacobs proved pivotal for the Dames, initiating a stunning try by lock Mihlali Mgweba that gave her side a crucial lead. Jacobs’ influence continued, creating another scoring opportunity for Arthea King. The first half ended with Boland leading 7-5, and a penalty goal from Elme Kruger briefly put Western Province ahead in the second half. However, a surge of momentum, sparked by Jacobs, saw the Dames score twice, with conversions by Chloe Adams extending their lead to 21-8. Western Province mounted a comeback, scoring a converted try to narrow the gap, but the Dames’ defense held firm in the final minutes.
Scorers:
- Boland Sanlam Dames 21 (7) – Tries: Mihlali Mgweba, Felicia Jacobs, Arthea King. Conversions: Zintle Nonkosana, Chloe Adams (2).
- DHL Western Province 15 (5) – Tries: Zandiswa Xozwa, Donelle Snyders, Conversion: Elme Kruger. Penalty goal: Kruger.
Lions Snatch Late Victory Against Sharks in Durban
The Golden Lions Women demonstrated grit and determination to secure a 19-18 win over the Sharks Women in Durban. This victory, their third in the Pick n Pay WSL 1, was built on a strong first-half performance and a resilient defensive effort in the second. The Lions capitalized on two yellow cards issued to Sharks players in the first half, scoring twice to establish a 12-0 lead at the break.
The Sharks fought back valiantly, with tries from flankers Nobuhle Mjawara and Nomonde Mbanjwa, coupled with two penalty goals from Mary Zulu, bringing them within striking distance. With three minutes remaining, the Sharks took the lead at 18-12. However, a late surge from the Lions saw replacement Zonke Sethi cross the line, and replacement flyhalf Kristen Cox calmly slotted the conversion to seal the victory.
Scorers:
- Sharks Women 18 (0) – Tries: Nobuhle Mjwara, Nomonde Mbanjwa. Conversion: Mary Zulu. Penalty goals: Zulu (2).
- Golden Lions Women 19 (12) – Tries: Siyonela Macamba, Zonke Sethi, Aretha Thomo. Conversions: Rumandi Potgieter, Kirsten Cox.
Daisies Maintain Perfect Record, EP Queens Dominate
The Isuzu Bulls Daisies continued their undefeated streak with a 52-9 victory over the Free State Women in Bloemfontein. Despite a strong wind impacting their game plan, the Daisies adapted, employing a power-based approach that saw their forwards dominate. Eight different players scored tries for the Pretoria side, showcasing their depth, and versatility. The Free State Women, however, put up a spirited fight, keeping the Daisies scoreless in the final 18 minutes.
In Gqeberha, the EP Queens delivered a commanding performance, defeating the Border Ladies 36-10 in an Eastern Cape derby. The Queens established a dominant lead in the first half, scoring six tries and utilizing their pack effectively. The Border Ladies struggled to contain the EP attack, managing to score two tries in the second half, but the damage had already been done.
Scorers:
- Free State Women 9 (6) – Penalty goals: Anelca Hess (3)
- Isuzu Bulls Daisies 52 (28) – Tries: Vainah Ubisi, Robyn Strydom, Naima Hlatshwayo, Jakkie Cilliers, Shaunique Alexander, Chuma Qawe, Yonela Ngxingolo, Lucky Nkhumishe. Conversions: Cilliers (3). Penalty goals: Cilliers (2).
- EP Queens 36 (24) – Tries: Amahla Nyoba, Olwethu Kasibe, Phelisa Mrwebi, Anacadia Minnaar, Julene Haas, Joanne Boesak. Conversions: Haas (3).
- Border Ladies 10 (0) – Tries: Unathi Mali, Aviwe Basana.
With one round of matches remaining, the Pick n Pay WSL 1 is poised for a thrilling conclusion. The Isuzu Bulls Daisies have already secured their place, but the battle for the remaining playoff spot between the Sanlam Boland Dames and DHL Western Province will be one to watch. The league’s competitive spirit and the rising talent within each team promise an exciting finish to the season.
What are your thoughts on the Boland Dames’ chances against the Daisies? Share your predictions and insights in the comments below.
