Bok-fever strikes Paarl as Rugby kicks off
2011-09-15
ONLY during last year’s Soccer World Cup was the green-and-gold so actively adorned, as was the mood in the streets of Paarl on Friday, when the World Cup Rugby tournament kicked off in New Zealand. The spirit of the World Cup could truly be felt with residents adorning their green-and-gold sports shirts, cars parading with flags and a festive atmosphere prevailing. Merencia Cloete and Mabatho Binca, both teachers from Groenheuwel Primary School, were very excited about the kick-off to this seven week tournament. “The Boks are definitely going to take the Cup. They must go out there and kick some butt. “It is wonderful to see the good spirit in everybody.” Cloete added that on Friday they set up a big screen television at school so that the learners could enjoy the spectacular event. Jeanne Crozier was very excited about the next few weeks. “I however predict that the Boks are going to come second to Australia.” Andrew Groeneveld said that the World Cup was a very special occasion, but he is not willing to commit himself to a prediction of the outcome thereof. “It is going to be a tight tournament and there are quite a few teams who can take the crown. “But it is a wonderful atmosphere and the whole country seems to be behind the Boks. We need more events like this to stimulate our patriotism.” Christo Kotze is carefully optimistic. “We will definitely reach the semis and hopefully the finals. “It is great to see everybody come together in support of the Boks.” Kenneth Aitken said it will be a southern hemisphere team that wins and the winner will be determined by whether the All Blacks choke or not. And they indeed have a reputation for this, “I have a strong feeling that the final will be between South Africa and Australia.” But Caroline Cloete is not too sure of the destiny of the Boks, after their stuttering start on Sunday against Wales. “But whoever wins, it is still a wonderful tournament to be part of.”
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