The Blues steal the win against the Lions, Rabada charged with a level 1 offence, plus other exciting talking points from the weekend’s sporting battles.
Blues hand Lions their first loss
The Blues secured their inaugural victory of the season with a remarkable win over the Lions at the Emirates Airline Park. Two tries in just five minutes swung the momentum and snatched the game from the hosts’ grasp.
Despite the Auckland team conceding two tries via unforced errors from Rohan Janse van Vuuren and Aphiwe Dyanti, Reko Ioane’s late try in the 70th minute brought the visitors back within four points. Dyson Dyantyi almost sealed it for the Lions in the 75th minute but was denied due to a knock-on ruling. Ultimately, the Blues clinched the game when Taramai breached the Lions’ defence following sustained pressure.
Lions 35 – 38 Blues
Jaguares find their feet
The Jaguares burst out of the blocks, scoring within the first 17 seconds against the Waratahs. The Australian side, currently on tour, had managed two draws against the Stormers and Sharks. Emiliano Boffelli’s brace helped the Argentinians triumph comfortably in Buenos Aires. Notably, the Jaguares avoided any disciplinary cards, a rare feat for a side famed for indiscipline – possibly signalling improved form ahead.
Jaguares 38 – 28 Waratahs
Hurricanes assert dominance
Jordy Barrett’s crafty ‘chicken wing’ pass set up TJ Perenara early on as the Hurricanes raced to a commanding start. Though the Crusaders gained ground in the second half, the Hurricanes’ pace and power saw them prevail comfortably. The loss sees the Crusaders slip to second place in the New Zealand conference, facing the Highlanders next, while the Hurricanes enjoy a bye week.
Hurricanes 29 – 19 Crusaders
Rashford shines in Liverpool derby
Marcus Rashford was the star at Old Trafford with two goals from almost identical spots, guiding Manchester United to a 2-1 comeback victory over Liverpool. Rashford earned man of the match honours. Despite an own goal from Eric Bailly, he was solid defensively. Liverpool dominated possession with 68% and 14 shots, but to no avail. Currently fourth, Klopp’s men trail Spurs by a point and Man United by five. Up next, Liverpool host Watford, while United travel to West Ham.
Rabada in the headlines for the wrong reasons
Kagiso Rabada’s recent controversies – including a shoulder brush on Steve Smith and the send-off of David Warner – have sparked hearings that might sideline him for the rest of Australia’s series. The fast bowler faces a Level 1 charge for Warner’s send-off. Despite the drama, Rabada was instrumental, taking 11 wickets to put the Proteas firmly ahead in the 2nd Test at Port Elizabeth.
