The turning point came when the referee decided to sin bin a Tuks player for a dangerous tackle, which is still disputed by coach Riaan van der Merwe.

Riaan hailed his team for a magnificent performance. On their way to the final they took care of Reunion (15-5), Mayotte Islands (55-0) and Madagascar (10-0).

“The girls did Tuks proud as we were a club competing against countries. Giving France a serious run for their money in the final is of great significance since they are a professional outfit,” said Riaan.

This fine performance gives Riaan high hopes for the international tournament on 15 July in Uganda, where Tuks and the Springboks will represent South Africa.

Riaan said Veronica Malan-Tshwane, Yolanda Meiring and Ilze van Staden were the three best Tuks players in Reunion.