EP got it right in Potch, says Coetzee

It was mission accomplished for EP’s Elephants when they scored a 34-21 bonus point win over the Leopards in a Currie Cup First Division clash in Potchefstroom on Saturday, coach Allister Coetzee said.

The win propelled EP into third spot on the six-team log and left them handily placed to nail down a home First Division semifinal.

It was an impressive display at altitude by the Elephants, who outscored the Leopards by six tries to three at Olen Park after they enjoyed a vital 24-11 halftime lead.

After crashing to a heavy 66-32 defeat against the Griffons in Welkom last week, EP knew they had to win to keep their hopes of lifting the First Division trophy alive.

EP’s attacking prowess was once again on display in Potchefstroom and Deon Plaatjies (2), Rodney Damons (2), Jayden Bantom and Davian Swanepoel all crossed for five-pointers.

EP complete the league phase of the competition with home matches against the Border Bulldogs and Falcons at the Madibaz Stadium.

“EP’s goal was to earn five points away from home and we achieved that, so it is mission accomplished,” Coetzee said.

“It was important for us to get the win away from home and also at altitude, which makes it even more special.

“It was really a satisfying showing from the team after we started slowly and then got into our stride.

'We showed our ability to score tries and we got four before halftime, which was very pleasing.

'EP are still creating too many soft moments in the game where we don’t control the chaos, but we are creating a bit of it.

“That was why the Leopards came back in the second half.

“But, having said that, I am really pleased with the showing away from home and we are still on track to achieve our goals.

“EP wanted to be much better in terms of execution and accuracy.

“There were a lot of turnovers and unforced errors that we conceded.

'We talked about taking ownership during the week and players know where they stand.

“They had to look at themselves after the defeat against the Griffons.

“It was a big step up and EP pitched up in Potchefstroom

“I am really pleased with our defence because we held them to three tries and we scored six.

“That shows our improved performance in terms of physicality and us dominating the set piece.”

Other First Division results: Border Bulldogs 15 Falcons 33, SWD Eagles 31 Griffons 40,

Log (all teams have played three matches): Falcons 15, Griffons 11, EP Elephants 11, SWD Eagles 8, Leopards 6, Border Bulldogs 2.

The Herald