The Emirates Lions returned home to Johannesburg after a long trip to the northern hemisphere in the early weeks of the 2023/24 URC season.
The match ended with a resounding 61-19 victory for the Lions, but what stood out as a moment of pure amusement was evergreen 39-year-old former Springbok Willem Alberts showcasing his unexpected kicking prowess.
Known for his thunderous tackles and hard-hitting style on the field, Willem Alberts has built a reputation as a bruiser, not necessarily one associated with delicate skills like kicking.
However, in a light-hearted and unexpected turn of events, Alberts found himself taking on the role of the kicker for a conversion during the match.
The Johannesburg crowd, familiar with Alberts’ no-nonsense approach to the game, erupted in laughter and cheers as the seasoned backrow player lined up for the conversion attempt.
The sight of a burly forward, more accustomed to bulldozing through defensive lines, assuming the role of a kicker added a touch of comedy to the already entertaining match.
As Alberts approached the ball, the crowd held its breath, unsure of what to expect.
To everyone’s surprise, the former Springbok displayed a comically unconventional kicking technique.
The ball sailed through the uprights, sparking a mixture of laughter and applause from the spectators.
It was a moment that transcended the typical seriousness of professional rugby, showcasing the lighter side of the sport.
While the match itself demonstrated the Emirates Lions’ dominance on the field, Alberts’ unexpected and humorous conversion added an extra layer of joy to the occasion.
Rugby fans, both at the stadium and watching from afar, were treated to a memorable moment that highlighted the versatility and good-natured spirit of one of the game’s seasoned veterans.
‘The Bone Collector’ rise to kick an 80th minute conversion 🥶
Willem Alberts take a bow 👏@Vodacom #URC | #LIOvZEB pic.twitter.com/M035mVVQFg
— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) November 25, 2023
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