WITS University emerged victorious on Friday night, dethroning defending champions Pirates with a hard-fought 33-22 win to claim the 2024 Castle Lager Pirates Grand Challenge title.
WITS came out firing in the first quarter, blitzing Pirates with 21 quick points that set the tone for the rest of the match. A brace each from hooker Dagan Meuwese and winger Kevon Chirwa gave WITS the momentum they needed to maintain control. Pirates stayed in the fight until the end, but WITS’ early dominance proved decisive.
Pirates fought back, with reserve hooker Liam Larkan making a huge impact off the bench, though he could have made a difference from the start. Number eight Kevin du Randt and captain Aidynn Cupido also crossed the try line for Pirates, keeping them within reach. However, a well-timed try from Liyema Matyolweni early in the second half ensured WITS kept Pirates at bay, despite their pressure.
Henk Gouws and Kelvin Kanenungo had standout performances for WITS, but it was their flyhalf, Tireque Apolles, who truly shone with his commanding boot, helping his team maintain their lead and secure the win.
WITS’ resilience and fast start proved too much for Pirates, crowning them the 2024 Castle Lager Pirates Grand Challenge champions and ending Pirates’ reign at the top. It was a thrilling finale to the season, one that will be remembered for WITS’ fight till the end.
