The Capetonians were among three victorious sides in the opening round, with the Sharks defeating Boland 32-17 and Eastern Province beating 2018 finalists, Border, 20-12 in the other matches.

Western Province were in fine form at Loftus Versfeld as they powered their way to a 31-7 halftime lead, and they maintained this stronghold in the second half to stretch their try tally to 10.

Kimico Manuel (winger) and Vuyo Maqholo (fullback) each scored braces, while Maqholo added three conversions for a personal total of 16 points. 

The Sharks overcame a strong first-half challenge from Boland in Caledon where the teams entered the break tied at 10-10 before they broke away with a determined second-half performance, which saw them outscore the hosts six tries to three.

Nqobile Mhlangu (centre) and Sizophila Solontsi (flanker) each contributed two tries to steer the side to victory.

Eastern Province, meanwhile, made the most of their home ground advantage at the Wolfson Stadium, as they held their nerve to defeat Border 20-12, with winger Nomawethu Mabenge’s scoring two of their four tries.

The first half was hard-fought with both teams managing only a try, but the hosts fought their way to victory in the end.

Women’s Interprovincial A Section Round 1 results:

Boland 17 – 32 Sharks (Caledon Sports Grounds)

Eastern Province 20 – 12 Border (Wolfson Stadium, Port Elizabeth)

Blue Bulls 7 – 60 Western Province (Loftus Versfeld B field, Pretoria)