Kleyn Hat-Trick Seals Nail-biting Away Victory for MC Boys
Rosina Paarwater Stadium, Bellville – Saturday, 14 May 2025
In a thrilling and hard-fought encounter at Rosina Paarwater Stadium, Macassar Rugby Football Club emerged victorious 22-27 over a physical Bellville side, clinching a memorable away win that showcased not just flair and skill, but also grit and growth across the park.
With both teams known for vastly contrasting playing styles — Bellville preferring a forward-dominated, physical game, while Macassar thrives on width and attacking creativity — the match was always going to be a test of tactical discipline and execution. In the end, it was Macassar’s expansive game plan that prevailed, bolstered by a standout performance from winger Breyton Kleyn.
The dynamo led the charge with a spectacular hat-trick of tries, proving near-unstoppable when given space. His pace, positioning, and finishing once again underlined why he’s one of the most dangerous strike runners in the competition.
However, Kleyn wasn’t the only player to shine on the day.
The calm and composed leadership of experienced scrumhalf Jovan Cookson was instrumental throughout. His game management, precision passing, and ability to control the tempo from the base provided a vital steady hand, especially in pressure moments. His vision and decision-making helped Macassar stay structured even when under sustained pressure.
Adding to the excitement were debutants Abdul-Nasir Benjamin, Glenville Galant, Lee-Wade Green and Lethan Rhodes — a bold move by the coaching staff, but one that paid off. Thrust into a high-stakes contest, all four newcomers delivered. Benjamin was particularly outstanding, with a strong showing in the engine room and a key involvement in what may well be one of the tries of the season.
Starting deep in their own twenty two, Macassar launched a sweeping counterattack that saw the ball move through multiple hands — including a clever touch from Benjamin — before Kyle Cookson crossed over to score. It was a breathtaking passage of play that encapsulated Macassar’s ability to turn defense into devastating attack, and a credit to the team’s conditioning and coaching philosophy.
“To get into shape that quickly after turnover ball speaks volumes about the team’s organization and structure,” said Backline Coach Eugene Pieterse. “That kind of rugby doesn’t just happen — it’s drilled, understood, and executed under pressure.”
In a noticeably more disciplined performance compared to recent outings, Macassar showed maturity in key moments. The late injection of energy from the bench proved pivotal once again, with the dynamic duo of Hewson Petersen and Ashwill Swart bringing physicality, urgency, and a much-needed edge in the closing stages. Their presence helped repel a surging Bellville pack and secure the result when it mattered most.
The back three of Kleyn, Kyle Cookson, and Lee-Mondre Benjamin were electric on the day, combining pace, flair, and fearless counterattacks that kept Bellville on the back foot. Their cohesion and attacking instinct played a major role in outflanking the opposition at crucial moments.
With this win, Macassar continues to build momentum and confidence as they head into their next home fixture against Kraaifontein Rugby Club this coming weekend.
Photo credit: Bellville Rugby Club