TygerBurger | Milnerton | E-Edition | 10 December 2025
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Despite nearly gale-force winds, residents from Blaauwberg, Big Bay, Table View, and Melkbosstrand gathered on Saturday 6 December at Erf 1117 to demand lawful, transparent, and safety-led planning before the City advances the Big Bay Local Spatial Development Framework (BB-LSDF)
The protest was organised by the Community Representation for Blaauwberg (CRB) amid growing frustration over the
Residents from Melkbosstrand joined the demonstration due to shared concerns about evacuation and nuclear safety linked to the nearby Koeberg nuclear power station
RESIDENTSREJECTCITY’SDEFENCE
According to Michelle Collins, chair of CRB, City officials continue to downplay community concerns by stating the LSDF is “only a draft” and that no development applications have yet been submitted
However, residents reject this narrative, emphasising that
the draft LSDF already carries statutory weight shaping future development envelopes, zoning, height restrictions, and infrastructure plans
“The City cannot adopt a plan that is incomplete, contradictory, and non-compliant with nuclear safety and biodiversity laws,” said Collins
The draft sets the framework for housing up to 25 000 additional residents inside the
Koeberg Urgent Protective Action Zone (UPZ), yet no evacuation feasibility studies have been provided
WARDCOUNCILLORSPEAKSOUT
In response to growing public concern and misperceptions, local Ward councillor Jonathan Mills has taken to Facebook, posting a series of videos to explain the LSDF project in detail
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In these videos, Mills aims to clarify the City’s intentions, outline the statutory role of the draft plan, and address safety and environmental concerns raised by residents Despite his efforts to engage and inform the community, some residents remain skeptical, citing ongoing frustration with the City’s transparency and consultation process
EVACUATIONFEASIBILITYMUSTCOMEFIRST
Central to residents’ concerns is the City’s failure to provide the Traffic Evacuation Model (TEM) or any evidence that current or future populations can be evacuated safely in an emergency
The CRB insists that feasibility must be demonstrated before densification planning proceeds, not deferred to a later stage, which residents argue is unlawful and contradicts both the Disaster Management Act and the Municipal Planning By-Law
Further concerns include reports that over 80% of public comments received no acknowledgement or reference number from the City, raising questions about whether submissions are properly recorded or processed
Residents also highlighted the threat to
the environment, noting the draft LSDF proposes developments over confirmed Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBA1a), wetlands, and Ecological Support Areas (ESA1), in direct contradiction with the City’s Biodiversity Spatial Plan (BSP 2025) and independent studies
“Our protest demonstrated what the City cannot ignore: this community is informed, organised, and united,” said Collins “We will not accept a planning framework that hides evacuation data, dismisses formal submissions, or sidelines the public through a compromised process This is a matter of lawful planning, safety, and transparency ”
COMMUNITYVOICESANDNEXTSTEPS
At the protest, residents expressed frustration over the City’s disregard for their input, vague responses, and failure to address critical issues such as nuclear safety, environmental protection, and infrastructure capacity
Residents have until Friday 12 December to submit comments to blaauwberg districtsdf@capetown gov za or erf1117comments@gmail com “The CRB continues its Change org petition calling for the LSDF to be suspended and redrafted,” Collins said
Community members from Blaauwberg and surrounds gather in unity
Metro police bust suspected dealer during patrol
KAILINDANIELS
KA LIN DAN ELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
A routine patrol in Table View on Wednesday afternoon (3 December) led to the swift arrest of a 51-year-old man, after metro-police officers had spotted a vehicle moving through the area which raised their suspicions They immediately called colleagues in two unmarked metro police vehicles to assist
According to Table View police spokesperson Capt Adriana Chandler the officers’ vigilance paid off
“During their patrols in the Table View area on the afternoon of Wednesday 3 December metro police officers spotted a suspicious-looking vehicle driving in the area The officers held observation and decided to call for colleagues driving two unmarked metro police vehicles ” The officers continued tracking the vehicle until the driver was seen engaging in what appeared to be an illegal transaction
LARGEAMOUNTOFCASHANDMULTIPLEDRUGS RECOVERED
Chandler confirmed officers had reasonable cause to approach the suspect and conduct a search of both his vehicle and him
“During the search the officers found a large amount of cash and various types of illegal substances, such as crystal methamphetamine (tik), cannabis (dagga) and Mandrax,” she said
The suspect was arrested on charges of dealing in drugs and was due to appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court on Friday 5 December
Station commander Col Thambelani
Mahlatshana commended the officers involved in the arrest and praised their proactive approach
He applauded them for acting on their instincts, which led to the swift arrest
Allegedrapist coupledeniedbail
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
ABloubergstrand couple accused of sexually abusing and exploiting their two young daughters will remain in custody after being denied bail National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed to TygerBurger on Monday that the couple’s case has been postponed until 4 March 2026 for further investigations
The 47-year-old mother and 48-year-old father were arrested on Tuesday 10 June 2025, following a joint intelligence-driven operation conducted by the Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) Unit, in collaboration with the FBI, U S Homeland Security Investigations, the South African Police Service, and the Department of Social Development Provincial police spokesperson Lt Col Amanda van Wyk explained that the operation targeted the couple’s home, where several electronic devices believed to contain child sexual abuse material were seized for forensic analysis The couple faces multiple charges, including two counts of rape, attempted rape, creation of child pornography, grooming, sexual exploitation of children, financially benefiting from child pornography, compelling children to watch sexual acts, and child abuse
The children, aged three and eight, were immediately removed from the home during the operation and placed in a safe environment
COURTAPPEARANCES
The couple made their first court
BLOUBERG PARENTS FACE MULTIPLE CHARGES
appearance on Thursday 12 June 2025, at the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court While they indicated plans to apply for bail, the state announced it will oppose the Schedule 6 bail application due to the gravity of the offences
The Table View Community Policing Forum (CPF) expressed deep concern and outrage at the crimes CPF spokesperson David Harris condemned all forms of violence and exploitation against children and praised the swift police action
“These crimes are horrific and strike at the heart of community safety,” Harris said “Transparency, victim support, and community education are essential to prevent further harm and ensure justice ”
The CPF is collaborating with police and other organisations to raise awareness about child protection
The 48-year-old father is taken into custody by police
arrest 51-year-old in Table View after spotting
RatangaPark upgradesunveiled
RSlides return to CanalWalk with a Stitch-inspired twist
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Canal Walk has officially kicked off its festive season with the return of its hugely popular Holiday Slides this year infused with a playful spark of Disney’s Stitch Presented in association with PEP, the event transforms the Centre Court into a vibrant island of fun, offering a lively escape for children, families and thrillseekers
Running from 5 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, the attraction blends fastpaced slides, creative play zones and festive energy TygerBurger was there on Saturday 6 December to capture some of the enjoyment
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HEHEARTOFTHEPARK
n place the question ld become of the lyer w the answer ly n the legacy of the r its retirement, e how to go about the design of the ion facilities in ght that, with a flatd install the train , y g a talking point but giving homage to the legacy of Ratanga Junction ”
A meticulous restoration followed, led by Keyser This time, however, the train traded its playful bright blue and red palette for a classic red, black and gold finish, honouring the traditional elegance of historic rail travel
Today, the restored Temperance Flyer sits elevated above the new building, overlooking the park where it once brought joy to countless children and families It is both a landmark and a memory, a bridge between eras
ANEWCHAPTERFORRATANGAPARK
The new ablution and information facilities mark a significant step in enhancing the visitor experience as the park’s popularity continues to grow The upgrades include an information and security office and spacious public bathrooms, including a wheelchairaccessible toilet
More than an infrastructural improvement, the unveiling reflects Century City’s dedication to preserving its heritage, fostering creativity, and celebrating community identity
.Visit https://centurycity co.za for more information.
Visitors can expect two standout slides at the heart of the experience Slide 626 – a nod to Stitch’s experiment number – brings back the beloved dual ice slide, where riders climb to the top and race side-by-side in friendly competition Alongside it the Akatoo-kee Slide offers a more daring adventure for older kids, beginning with a smooth run before accelerating into a sharp drop and sending riders soaring onto an airbag A mini slide specially designed for younger guests ensures that even the littlest adventurers can join in the excitement
AFESTIVEPLAYGROUNDOFSLIDES,SNOWAND SAND
Beyond the slides, families can extend their stay with Canal Walk’s snow play and sand play zones These hands-on areas offer a delightful mix of sensory exploration, building, shaping and imaginative fun – perfect for keeping smaller visitors engaged between rides A professional photographer is on hand to capture the day’s best moments, with printed action shots available at the onsite photo ticket box office
Tickets are tailored to suit families of all sizes Full riders (5+) enjoy access to both major slides, snow play, sand play and photo opportunities Mini riders (under 5) can enjoy the mini slide and both play zones, while Mini rider Plus tickets allow slightly older toddlers (ages 3-5) to brave the iconic Slide 626 Non-rider tickets ensure that parents and guardians can accompany their little ones comfortably Early-bird bundles via Webtickets provide added value for those planning ahead
PEPADDSCHARACTERMAGICTOTHEHOLIDAY EXPERIENCE
As the main sponsor, PEP brings a vibrant layer of character-driven fun to the event Known for celebrating beloved characters and family-focused experiences, PEP’s involvement enhances the colourful Stitch theme that runs throughout the installation, adding an extra dose of charm for visitors young and old
With generous trading hours – from 10:00 to 20:45 daily (closed on 25 December) –and a cashless ticketing system, Canal Walk’s Holiday Slides ensure seamless festive entertainment Whether you’re racing down frozen lanes, soaring through the air on a high-speed slide, or moulding shapes in snowy play areas, the experience promises joy, laughter and shared family memories
.Visit www canalwalk.co.za for more information and to book tickets.
Once a theme-park favourite,the Temperance Flyer now serves as a heritage landmark in Ratanga Park.
The restored Temperance Flyer stands proudly atop Ratanga Park’s new facilities,honouring a beloved Century City icon
Kids make festive memories as Stitch brings mischief to Canal Walk.
Kayden Treadway (3) on the mini slide
Tyler Erasmus (12) and Elisiah Daniels (11) enjoyed the snow and island-themed fun
MelkbosXmaslightsswitchedon
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Melkbosstrand came alive with festive cheer on Saturday, 6 December, as thousands of residents and visitors gathered along the beachfront for the much-loved Melkbosstrand Lights Festival The event marked the official switch-on of the town’s Christmas lights, transforming the seaside village into a glowing celebration of community spirit, holiday joy and local creativity TygerBurger was there to
MELKBOS A LUMINOUS CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY
capture the festivities
The day-long event featured something for everyone The Jingle & Mingle Market drew steady crowds throughout the afternoon, with local artisans and small businesses showcasing handmade gifts, festive décor, craft foods and unique holiday finds
Children flocked to Santa’s Village, where they enjoyed meeting Father Christmas, taking photos and participating in fun, themed activities As evening approached, families gathered on blankets and beach chairs for Christmas carols and sing-alongs that filled the air with classic holiday melodies
Food stalls lined the beachfront, offering everything from gourmet burgers and sweet treats to traditional festive favourites As the sun dipped behind the ocean, anticipation grew for the moment everyone had been waiting for the official switching on of the lights
ASPARKLINGSWITCH-ONBYTHESEA
Cheers erupted as Melkbosstrand’s Christmas lights flickered to life, illuminating the palm trees, pathways and beachfront stalls in warm, colourful displays The glow created an unforgettable atmosphere, with children dancing beneath the lights and parents snapping photos to mark the moment
Residents described the evening as one of the most memorable community events of the year
Nicole Stevens, Melkbosstrand resident said: “Seeing the whole community come together like this was incredible The lights switch-on gave me goosebumps; it
felt like the official start of Christmas ”
Johan Cummings, visitor from Table View, said: “My kids loved Santa’s Village
We spent almost an hour there, and they didn’t want to leave It was such a wholesome, family-friendly afternoon ”
Shannon Naidoo, a local, said: “The market was busy from start to finish It’s amazing to see people supporting small businesses, especially during the festive season The energy was fantastic "
Community Medics volunteers stood ready to assist throughout the festivities
Community Medics teams patrolled the beachfront ensuring a safe event for all.
Festive treats filled the air with the smell of cinnamon and braai smoke
Families gathered early along the beachfront soaking up the festive cheer
NSRIconfirmsSafeTrx appwillstayonlineinSA
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has moved quickly to reassure South African paddlers, kayakers and ocean users that the NSRI SafeTrx app remains fully functional, monitored and free despite the announcement that the UK’s Royal Yachting Association (RYA) will discontinue its version of the app at the end of this year.
“The NSRI SafeTrx app continues to be actively monitored by our Emergency Operations Centre and the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, just as it has been for the past ten years,” said Brett Ayres, NSRI Chief Operating Officer “We want to be absolutely clear the RYA’s decision does not affect SafeTrx in South Africa ”
Ayres acknowledged that some paddlers have been understandably worried but emphasised that NSRI’s commitment to SafeTrx remains unwavering
SAFETRXISVITAL
While SafeTrx provides a critical safety net, Ayres noted that it should never be relied on as the sole layer of protection “SafeTrx is not a panacea It is one part of a safety system,” he said “Your phone could fall overboard Signal may drop Your battery might die That's why layers of safety are essential ”
The NSRI continues to advocate for a multi-layered safety approach, including:
Rediscover magic of Christmas
NSRI CONTINUES TO SUPPORT AND MONITOR SAFETRX, DESPITE UK APP DISCONTINUATION
High-visibility gear and reflective tape on paddles and craft Paddling in groups where possible Telling someone your planned route and return time Carrying backup signalling devices such as a VHF radio, whistle or flares
HOWSAFETRXWORKS
The NSRI SafeTrx app monitors a user’s journey and alerts the NSRI, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre and the user’s nominated emergency contact if they do not return on time
Once a trip is logged and launched:
NSRI can track your location in real time
Pressing the emergency button sends an exact GPS location for immediate dispatch
If you miss your expected arrival time, NSRI will check in with you
The app also offers Track-Only mode, a trip logbook, and a personalised safety checklist tools that have helped save countless paddlers over the past decade
Ayres reiterated the NSRI’s core message: preparation saves lives Whether you are on a surfski, kayak or stand-up paddleboard, taking a few minutes to plan and log your trip can make all the difference in an emergency
NSRI’SESSENTIALSAFETYTIPSFORPADDLERS
.Log your trip on the NSRI SafeTrx app
.Carry a fully charged cellphone in a waterproof pouch
.Save the NSRI Emergency Number: 087 094 9774 (or dial 112 in an emergency)
.Wear a bright-coloured PFD
.Use a leg leash and paddle leash
.Paddle with a buddy or in a group
.Tell someone your route and estimated return time
.Add reflective decals to your paddle and craft
.Mark your name and phone number clearly on your craft
.Carry flares, a whistle, radio or other attention-getting devices
.Pack a warm waterproof top, water and an energy snack
.Call early for help if you get into difficulty
.If paddling solo, ensure someone is actively monitoring your progress
. For more information, visit https://www.nsri.org.za
A Christmas market is being presented at Andries Olivier Durbanville Quadriplegic Centre at 18 Hafele Street in Durbanville on Saturday 13 December
The Christmas market will be held in conjunction with the monthly book sale from 09:00 to 14:00 as part of their fundraising endeavours.
Crafts such as jewellery, printed T-shirts and handpainted hats will be sold. Other bric-a-brac will be available, as well as reasonably priced plants
For the hungry there will be boerewors rolls, vetkoek with mince, pies, quiches, pancakes, jaffles, sweets, fudge, burgers, homemade jam, a barrister serving a variety of food and beverages, and more
A variety of R5 books will be on sale, as well as a variety of curated and well-priced books such as cooking books, biographies, Afrikaans and children's books, as well as books of South African interest.
The Collector’s Corner has some special South African art books on well-known artists such as Frans Claerhout, Alfred Krenz, Francois Krige, John Kramer and Jean Welz.
Last month’s special – Laugh for R1 –proved so popular that they will have a new selection of cartoons and funnies for just R1 each for sale.
All funds raised are in aid of the centre and its residents.
Stalls are still available at R200 each.
.Anyone interested in being a vendor at the market must contact Jean on 083 356 0001 or Allen on 078 393 5924 for more information.
NSRI crew during a rescue operation
Give thanks for all the little things
At this time of the year, we usually complain about everything and how tired we are every day Everyone is patiently waiting for the clock to strike just to go on holiday, even if it is just for a few days or a week
We all feel tired every morning and struggle to get up every day, looking for that courage to go to work and do our things It's not even funny when I say every friend of mine complains about the struggle to get up in the morning I also feel exhausted and see the 80km I must drive every day as a mission to get to work and back home
But when I pause, sink into the quiet corners of my mind, and truly reflect on the tapestry of this year behind me, I can't help but feel guilty about why I'm even complaining I realised that we tend to complain every day about minor things So much so that we forget about all the blessings and little things we can be thankful for We usually look past the small wins
Personally, as bittersweet as it was, I got to spend quality time with my mom, which I never knew I needed I've always been an independent person, away from my family since a young age, and never thought I would come to a point where I could go out with my mom like we're friends, having fun and just enjoying ourselves
I also got a new job, which I had prayed for quite a while It came at a time when I really needed it I also received the gift of love again, meeting someone I've been waiting for a long time now Someone
WESHOULDALWAYSTRYTOBE MORETHANKFUL...
who ticks all my boxes and shows me that what I wanted is still out there After many disappointments, I get to experience the "soft life" and "princess treatment" I deserve There was a time when I thought I would never get to experience it
My eldest and only sister finally got married after all the odds, and I got to experience every step of planning with her, making sure she had the perfect fairytale wedding We also welcomed a new bundle of joy to the family Now this, for me, is more than enough to be thankful for So, I just want to express that besides complaining this time of year while fighting the year-end blues, we should look back and see how far we've come We should also try to be more thankful and give thanks for all we've achieved this year
The fact that you can still see the end of the year creeping up on us means you've achieved something The beauty of being at the end of a calendar year is that very soon we'll have a chance to start over again, making better decisions, facing and overcoming new challenges, setting boundaries and deciding how we are going to face the new year head-on
For now, give thanks and appreciate every little thing that has come our way
Remember 1 Thessalonians 5:18: "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus "
I know it's not always easy giving thanks while dealing with so much happening, not only in your personal and work life but also in the world we live in Having to navigate the weakened economy, gender-based violence and child killings on a daily basis but appreciating the little things around us can make this all feel a little comforting, even if it is just for a moment or two We'll try again next year!
-MAURICIAPETERSEN
MAKE A SPLASH: The first-ever Freestyle
BRIEWE|LETTERS
Renewed discussion on Uitkamp development
The letter by so-called Prof Bats Yaku, under the heading “Calling out the snakes in D’ville” (TygerBurger 3 December) reminds one of the battle that took place some 10 to 15 years ago to save the environmentally sensitive game farm of Uitkamp, now Clara Anna Fontein from development
His letter focused mostly on the controversy surrounding the development of the Uitkamp game farm, and had little to do with Reddam House’s recent achievements, which are noteworthy and commendable
HEADLINEARTICLES
A simple Google search of “Uitkamp controversial development” brings up the following headline articles: “Row over Cape housing project” (Property24) “Development punted prior to court ruling”, (l2b), Cape Town passes development buck , (Netwerk24), “Court battle looms over bid to build 700 houses on farm land” (PressReader) and so forth
Some quotes from the articles are as follows: “The homes are due to be built in the Clara Anna Fontein game reserve” “Western Cape premier Helen Zille asked to intervene to stop the development”, “The D Urbanvale Residents Forum has reacted strongly, claiming that they feel betrayed by the council and accused the mayoral committee of ignoring the
unprecedented and overwhelming response from the community to prevent the development”, “Letters of complaint from the Far South Peninsula Community Forum, the Glencairn Action Group, the Simon s Town Civic Association and the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa” “The leader of the ANC in council also weighed in saying his party was concerned about good arable land being used for private development We believe the meeting where this decision was taken was unconstitutional" and “Construction of a 348-unit residential site with a retirement village on yet another tract of agricultural land in the suburb has residents in fear that a growing trend to develop outside of the city's urban edge will turn the picturesque region into a concrete jungle”
IMPACTNEGATIVELY
Perhaps a response to the Property24 article of 22 December 2010 sums it up the best: “As a passionate Durbanviller I do know that this 650-home development on the current farm would impact negatively on the visual attractiveness of the area Me as well as hundreds of fellow hikers bikers and runners use the scenic Vissershok Road on a weekly basis We select to live here because of the beauty of the area Within minutes you are out of the town and into the country between the vineyards and
Justice system battles gang violence daily
Brett Herron, from the Good Party, gave alarming statistics on the ongoing slaugther on the Cape Flats ("The Western Cape Killing Fields" 3 December) Being a politician it is no surprise that he aimed a cheap shot at the Western Cape Provincial Government and blamed them for a lack of political will to address and resolve these tragic deaths
After a 37 years career as a prosecutor ( of which 31 years at the office of the director of public prosecutions), I must perhaps draw Herron's attention to just some of the realities that face the criminal justice system when dealing with gang-related murders
At any given time will you find a number of people either in the street or outside in their yard in these gang-ridden areas, but as soon as there is a murder in
broad daylight, potential witnesses disappear in thin air You can hardly blame them because the intimidation of and even killing of witnesses is a grim reality Do you succeed to convince a witness to testify, that witness will have to be prepared to spend months and even years in the witness protection programme at great personal sacrifices, a daunting prospect for most people?
This is a very complex situation which do not need politicians that try to score cheap political points, but the cooperation of all role players, especially the communities in which these tragic events unfold on a daily basis
ADV CHRISTHÉNUS VAN DER VIJVER (RETIRED), Kuils River
renosterbos farmland Remove this and swop it for 650 close-built small homes which each look the same as the other, and this whole rationale goes out the window The same is happening in the Winelands area Beautiful vineyards are being swopped for housing estates The very reason why people value these areas, are because of its natural beauty “Please stop this development from happening Marnus” Thanks for reminding us of the controversy Prof, but it seems that there was overwhelming opposition to the development for reasons stated in the articles – you can get the full context if you care to Google it yourself
COURTCASE
Oh and just one other thing the court case was fought by non-profit organisations on behalf of the community and funded by members thereof If each person donated an average of R100 (not unusual), it would take 25 000 donations to raise the R2 5 million which you stated as being the cost of the court case That’s more than half the population of Durbanville at the time Fortunately there are more people who care about protecting our rich heritage and the environment than those who do not, and the internet has a good memory!
Durbanville
G S GHOSTOF,
Goodwood needs peace
It was with irritation that I read about gang activity in Goodwood where a shoot-out resulted in the death of somebody
Goodwood is and always will be a place where residents can walk in the street mothers can push their kids in prams and youngsters can play in the park
Many of us living in Goodwood are of a senior age and have done our time in the military fighting real soldiers
We want to live in peace , and enjoy our remaining years Those who want to disrupt this, all I can say to you is "Don't pull the lion's tail"
Let us all keep Goodwood safe and enjoy each others company
EX SADF PARATROOPER, Goodwood
GRANDMASTERS
Diving Chess Championship saw two world-renowned chess grandmasters take each other on under water in the rooftop pool of the Silo Hotel in Cape Town last Thursday.In the end Hans Niemann (USA) dived his way to victory beating Fabiano Caruana (USA).The Diving Chess competition was the first of several side events that are part of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Finals taking place at Grootbos near Gansbaai this week, featuring some of the world’s best chess grandmasters PHOTO: STEV BONHAGE / FREESTYLE CHESS
AANDAG ALMAL kontant vir enige huis-houdelike goed klere, skoene, beddegoed, gordyne, speelgoed, oudhede, juweliersware - goud, breekgoed, potte, elektroniese ware. MEUBELS yskaste, beddens, Sitkamerstelle, tv's (en baie meer) Johan 074 474 4275
and regas from R180. Cathy / Francois 079 838 1851 All areas
The Blitzboks made history on Sunday 7 December when they claimed this year's HSBC Cape Town Seven crowns after defeating Argentina in front of a packed Cape Town Stadium, thus becoming the first side to win successive crowns in the Mother City
The Springboks Sevens came into the Cape Town tournament at the back of a disappointing Dubai tour and were eager to redeem themselves in front of their home supporters
They made their intentions clear with a flawless group stage
wins against Fiji (24-21), New Zealand (19-14) and Great Britain (41-7) to book a semi-final spot against France
Phillip Snayman's charges went into their encounter against the French with guns blazing, backed by the vociferous Cape Town crowd They won the match by 22-17 for a final spot against Argentina With some of their key players, including semi-final star Tristan Leyds missing for the final due to injuries, the Blitzboks made a poor start They conceded a converted try in the second minute through Luciano González Rizzoni
In the fourth minute of the
game, following a turnover in their 22-metre area, Donovan Don scored for the Blitzboks
From the resultant restart, Argentina obtained possession to score their second try in the sixth minute of the game through Marcos Moneta
Efforts to equalise before half-time drew a blank as the Springboks Sevens made some silly handling mistakes
The half ended 14-7 to Argentina
In the first minute of the
second half, Moneta crossed the whitewash for the second time, putting Argentina 19-7 up
However, the Blitzboks refused to give up and continued to push hard at the start of the second half
They were rewarded in the second minute when tournament debutant Sonwabo Sokoyi, who scored his first try for the team in the match against France, sprinted to the tryline after sleek footwork in front of the Argentine players
The Springboks continued to push hard, forcing Argentina to concede penalties in their 22-metre area
With defeat looming, Shilton van Wyk broke the Argentine line and made a delicate pass to Christie Grobbelaar to score the final try and level the scores in the final minute of the game
A conversion ensured the boys retained the trophy by registering a 21-19 victory
The win elevated the Springboks to the top of the HSBC log after two rounds
The Blitzboks will look to carry their winning formula to Singapore in January next year
The boys retained the trophy by registering a 21-19 victory. PHOTOS: RASHIED ISAACS
Matteo Graziano of Argentina shows a face of determination to stop Christie Grobbelaar of the Blitzboks crossing the try line during the final of the HSBC sevens tournament at Cape Town Stadium on Sunday 7 December The Blitzboks won 21-19 to win back-to-back at tournament on home.
