On a day marred by tragedy and chaos at the abandoned Kariega derby between log-leaders Multisure Gardens and Progress in Kariega, other key matches took place in Gqeberha and Makhanda.
The derby clash between Gardens and Progress was abandoned after part of the capacity crowd at the Derrick Ferrerira Stadium (Die Hok) stormed onto the field with five minutes remaining.
The invasion came after Gardens scored a late try to level a thrilling Score Energy Drink EPRU Grand Challenge Top 12 game at 13-13.
When pandemonium broke out, referee Aphiwe Mfana left the field before the conversion could be taken.
EP Rugby bosses say they will be holding an urgent inquiry to map the way forward after Saturday's disaster, which saw a fan shot dead outside the stadium after the match.
Elsewhere, Harlequins moved into second place on the Top 12 log behind Gardens when they beat Park 34-21 at Londt Park Gqeberha.
In another key clash, champions Kruisfointein continued their midseason revival with a 34-24 win over Brumbies at the Miki Yili Stadium in Makhanda.
It was a vital win for Harlequins, who are hot on the heels of unbeaten log leaders Gardens after wins over Trying Stars and Joubertina United in their previous two matches.
Park started the match on the front foot, but were unable to find a way through the solid Harlequins defence.
However, Harlequins scrumhalf Ethan Jantjies scored the first try of the game to set his team on the path to victory.
The match marked the return of Dayle Nel to the Harlequins ranks, and he delivered an outstanding display.
There is still uncertainty over whether Harlequins will be awarded a walkover win after their game against Progress in Kariega failed to take place on May 24.
A Harlequins insider said: “Harlequins are adamant they should be awarded the five points.”
On the latest log issued by the union, the Progress versus Harlequins clash is listed as an outstanding fixture scheduled to take place on Saturday.
The original showdown was terminated because of construction work being carried out at the Central Field in Kariega, which is Progress' home venue.
A huge crowd had been expected to descend on the stadium, and EP rugby bosses decided to call the game off in the interests of safety.
The director of sport and recreation at NMB municipality, Charmaine Williams, wrote a letter to Progress president Kosie Basson (dated May 9) informing him of the Central Field closure due to rehabilitation at the facility.
Harlequins then hit out at Progress in a statement, where they blamed the Kariega club for not arranging an alternative venue.
in Makhanda, Kruisfontein showed they will not be relinquishing their title without a fight with an impressive 34-21 win over Brumbies.
The Humansdorp side came out with all guns blazing from the opening whistle to signal their intentions.
Wade Stuurman, Jamiel Marais, Alwano Solomon, Dowane Ashron and Jayren Draghoender all delivered impressive displays for Kruisfontein.
In a message to their supporters, Kruisfontein said: “We’re proud of every single player for their contribution against Brumbies.
“It was a full team performance built on heart, hustle, and hard work.
“A special message of strength to our captain, Mzwandile Manxodidi, who sustained an injury during the match. We’re all behind you and wishing you a full and speedy recovery.
Let’s carry this momentum forward and continue to rise.”
Saturday's games were the final fixtures for the first round with outstanding matches set to be played on Saturday.
Upcoming fixtures:
Saturday (outstanding games): Progress v Harlequins and United Barbarians v Despatch Oostelikes.
July 5 (start of second round): United Barbarians v Brumbies, Gardens v Kruisfontein United, Park v Star of Hope, Trying Stars v Joubertina United, Harlequins v Progress.
The Herald
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.