Ocean Swallows take trophy to Lüderitz
Club rugby
“I cannot describe the feeling,” said an elated Alvin “Tiekie” van Wyk, head coach of Ocean Swallows after the whistle ended their triumphant final of the Namibia Rugby Union First Division. The Lüderitz-based team defeated Vipers 17-14 and clinched the trophy for a second time at the Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek. Ironically this was the same final score with which they beat Mariental in the 2016 final in Windhoek.
On that occasion, their current fly-half Jamall van Wyk, the son of coach Tikkie, was a waterboy for Ocean Swallows.
“This time he represented Luderitz as a player and scored 11 points with his boot. Now that is very rewarding for a father and for me as a coach,” said a beaming Van Wyk.
He admitted that Vipers gave Swallows a tough time. “It was hard competing against them and they should regard playing in the final as a milestone. They must not give up and should stay positive.”
Last-gasp kicking drama
In a gripping final, the Ocean Swallows edged out the Windhoek Vipers 17-14 to claim the coveted floating trophy.
The Vipers led 8-6 at halftime, after nr. 8 Owen Swartz scored the opening try, following on from two five-pointers in the semi-final against Okahandja Highlanders, while fly-half Luandru Oberholzer added a penalty.
For Ocean Swallows, fly-half Jamall van Wyk’s two penalties kept them within touching distance.
The second half still had some drama in store. Ocean Swallows fought back and took the lead with a well-executed converted try by full-back Anthony Oranje (17-14).
As the clock wound down, Ocean Swallows gladly kicked the ball into touch, believing the 80 minutes had gone.
Instead, Vipers were awarded a crucial penalty. If converted, it would have sent the match into extra time, giving them a chance to turn the result around.
Oberholzer, who had been instrumental with three penalties, stepped up for the decisive kick. The stadium was hushed as he took the shot, only to see the ball ricochet off the post and hearing the final whistle seal the Swallows' victory.
The Vipers, though disappointed to let opportunities slip through their fingers, showed commendable spirit and skill throughout the match.
The Swallows celebrated their hard-earned victory with jubilant cheers, having withstood the pressure to secure the title.