The South African U19 Academy Team Struggles in France
The French U19 team emerged victorious in their tour opener against the SA U19 Academy, winning 20-12 (7-7 at halftime) in challenging conditions in Châteauroux on Saturday. The visitors struggled with inconsistent play and unforced errors, despite the team's limited practice time due to a recent break from provincial age-group competitions.
A light rain shower early in the game made the playing surface and ball slippery, which seemed to hinder the South Africans. However, they also failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Both teams had difficulty handling the greasy ball, leading to a stop-start game, and their set pieces were underwhelming.
The South Africans showed improvement at scrum time but committed silly penalties during attacking plays in the French 22, including two for obstruction at lineout drives near the tryline, and at breakdowns. The game's first try went to Siphosethu Mnebelele in the 15th minute, followed by Vusi Moyo's conversion, giving the visitors a 7-0 lead after their initial foray into the French 22.
France quickly equalized five minutes later with a maul try by Edouard Jabea Njocke, converted by Luka Keletaona. The hosts were penalized for double-banking late in the half, but the SA U19s were unable to capitalize. France took the lead in the second half with a penalty goal by Keletaona, five minutes after the restart.
The French team maintained pressure and pinned the SA U19s in their own half. The turning point came when Lindsey Jansen was sin-binned for illegal play, allowing the French to use their numerical advantage. Quentin Valentino then scored their second try, with Keletaona converting to give France a 10-point lead.
Despite the South Africans' continued efforts, their error count increased. France was penalized for a maul infringement, and Kebotile Maake scored for the visitors. However, Luan Giliomee's conversion attempt missed, making it a five-point game with 10 minutes remaining. Keletaona sealed the victory for France with his second penalty goal, following another breakdown infringement by the SA U19s.
Scorers:
France U19: 20 (7) - Tries: Edouard Jabea Njocke, Quentin Valentino. Conversions: Luka Keletaona (2). Penalty goals: Keletaona (2).
SA U19 Academy: 12 (7) - Tries: Siphosethu Mnebelele, Kebotile Maake. Conversion: Vusi Moyo.
