CAPE TOWN – Western Province proved to be far too good for the Free State Cheetahs as they romped to a 32-0 win in their Currie Cup fixture at Newlands on Saturday night.
Torrential rain marked the clash between the two sides, as Western Province edged into a 13-0 lead at the break. The hosts adapted quickest and dominated territory and possession stakes although scoring proved difficult.
The boot of SP Marais and a late try by Ruhan Nel, in time added on, sent the home into the lead in what proved to be a sign of things to come. Former schoolboy star Juarno Augustus then got Western Province off to the perfect start with a try as Free State battled for any sort of way back into the encounter.
In the 52nd minute, hooker Scarra Ntubeni added his side’s third try as he muscled his way over with the contest all but decided. A few minutes later lock JD Schickerling got his name onto the scoresheet as the rain continued to pour down.
With the bonus point now secure, Western Province continued to dominate all facets of the game as Marais knocked over the extras. With little to play for, Western Province held out to keep the visitors scoreless as they set the platform for another crack at the Currie Cup.
Scorers:
Western Province 32 (13): Tries: Ruhan Nel, Juarno Augustus, Scarra Ntubeni, JD Schickerling. Conversions SP Marais (3). Penalties: Marais (2)
Free State Cheetahs 0 (0)