Spotlight on young guns in pre-season friendly

It was an exciting Saturday afternoon for Motorvaps False Bay as they travelled north to Brackenfell for a thrilling Super League A (SLA) pre-season friendly.

With a number of seasoned players moving on this season, the Bay were giving their new, youthful squad a chance to shine, following a narrow defeat against Helderberg just a week prior.

And while this was only a pre-season match, the intensity on display certainly made it feel like much more.

Despite trailing 21-12 at half time, False Bay stormed back in the second half to secure a 28-58 victory.

Brackenfell, under the guidance of coach Johnny Trytsman, were not to be outdone. With a squad also in the process of rebuilding, they showed plenty of heart and fight.

Several young players stepped up, but none more so than fullback Brandon Jafta, openside flank JP Palvie who graduated from the under-20s and lock Jamie Florence, who carried strongly in the first half to help keep the home side in the game. 

In a side show, it was the battle of the Flo’s as the latter faced his southern cousin, centre Joshua Florence, in the second half.

Unfortunately, fate didn’t quite deliver the head-to-head collision they had been hoping for, but the two had to settle for some good-natured banter in the pub after the match.

The game itself was a back-and-forth battle, with Brackenfell’s attack taking the lead early.

They were sharp, playing the narrow Brackenfell pitch to their advantage and keeping False Bay on their toes with quick, direct running.

The Bay, however, displayed their usual calm, determined style and managed to hold their ground with some power scrumming to launch the attack. With several of their younger players looking sharp, especially the lively Eli Mentz, the Bay began to show their class in the second half.

As the match progressed, the visitors found their rhythm, and despite a brave Brackenfell effort, False Bay’s superior fitness, pace and composure began to tell.

A steady flow of tries came for the Bay from their ever dangerous backs, with a standout performance from young flyhalf Mike Taylor.

Despite the heavy scoreline, Brackenfell never gave up, continuing to fight until the final whistle, earning well-deserved respect for their performance.

Bay coach Ash Wells and his team will take plenty of positives from this match, particularly the youthful energy and spirit the squad showed throughout the contest. The victory will lift their spirits as they gear up for the regular season, with many new faces hoping to leave their mark in the SLA.

Wayne Florence is a member of False Bay RFC.