Defending Champions Western Province Deliver Ruthless Performance on Opening Day of U20 Women’s Week

Defending champions Western Province dominate Free State 79-0 while Eastern Province punishes the Blue Bulls on day one of the 2026 U20 Women’s Week.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 28, 2026, 3:39 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

Western Province Establishes Early Dominance in Alberton

The defending champions from the Western Cape signaled their intent to retain the title by dismantling Free State in a clinical 79-0 display. According to match reports, the victory was built upon a disciplined forward pack, led by Abigail Smit and Abby Koopman, who provided a consistent platform for the backline to exploit. Flyhalf Nuha Levy orchestrated the attack with precision, feeding strike runners such as Emma Bester, who crossed for four tries, and Davedine March. The sheer synergy between the forwards and backs allowed Western Province to find space at will, while a resolute defensive line prevented Free State from mounting any meaningful response throughout the contest.

Eastern Province Overwhelms Former Finalists in Tier One Clash

In a surprising one-way affair, Eastern Province secured a commanding 46-10 victory over the Blue Bulls, a team that contested last year’s final. The win was initiated in the opening minute when wing Shanice Scholtz scored from the kickoff, setting the tone for a seven-try romp. Scholtz eventually completed a hat-trick, benefiting from seamless combinations with Lukhanye Lolo and Micayle Hendricks. While the Blue Bulls managed to cut the deficit through a Georgia-Lee Lewis try during a period where Eastern Province was down to 14 players, the Eastern Cape side maintained their composure. Impact players from the bench, including Esona Sokani and Zusakhe Tembani, finalized the emphatic scoreline.

Boland Outlasts Border in High Tempo Counter-Attacking Battle

Boland showcased superior finishing abilities to secure a 29-22 win over Border, relying heavily on their proficiency during transition play. The match remained a close contest as Border responded to early Boland scores with flowing team tries, characteristic of their traditional style. However, Boland’s Aisha Valentine proved to be the difference-maker, scoring two vital tries through well-timed backline movements. Border mounted a late challenge, cutting the lead to seven points in the final minutes, but a Hope Williams score provided Boland with the necessary breathing room. Despite a Border try on the final whistle, the Western Cape side’s ability to punish wayward kicks proved decisive.