Welwitschias Invitational XV thrash Zambia in dominant display

The Welwitschias Invitational XV produced an emphatic attacking performance to defeat Zambia 71-12 in their international rugby friendly at the Hage Geingob Stadium on Sunday.

The hosts wasted little time asserting themselves as Adriaan Booysen crossed for the opening try, with Wiks Tromp adding the conversion before Ruan Ludick also went over to give Namibia a 14-0 lead.

Zambia briefly responded with an unconverted try, but the Welwitschias quickly regained control through captain Prince Goaseb, who led from the front with a try of his own.

Obert Nortjé and Max Katjijeko also crossed before halftime as the home side opened up a commanding 33-5 advantage at the break.

The Welwitschias maintained their intensity after the restart, with Booysen grabbing his second try of the afternoon, while Aston Mukwiilongo also got on the scoresheet as the hosts continued to dominate possession and territory.

The only blemish on an otherwise dominant afternoon came in the second half when Johan Luttig was shown a red card, forcing the Welwitschias to finish the match with 14 men.

Carew scores hat-trick

The standout performer, however, was debutant Jaylon Carew, who announced himself in spectacular fashion by scoring a hat-trick in his first appearance for the Welwitschias Invitational XV.

Speaking after the match, an emotional Carew dedicated his memorable performance to his late grandmother.

“I'm happy with the result. I’m happy we got the win and that I was able to score a hat-trick on my debut. I dedicate it to my late grandmother. She always wanted this for me,” he said.

Zambia managed a second try late in the contest, but it proved only a consolation as the Welwitschias completed a comprehensive 71-12 victory despite finishing the match a player short.

The convincing win will give the Namibian coaching staff plenty of positives to take forward, with several players producing standout performances in an entertaining display before the home crowd.

– [email protected]