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SA vs. Lions Final Test Match

The morning of Saturday, 4th July 2009, dawned crisp and clear in Johannesburg, with blue cloudless skies overhead and the promise of exceptional weather for the third and final test match at Ellis Park. Although the Springboks had already won the series, the African Palace team was sure that the Lions would play a blazing game, wanting to save face and reclaim some of the glory lost in the first two games.

Our VIP guests arrived midmorning at the very glamorous Westcliffe Hotel and were ushered out onto a wide veranda surrounded by magnificent views. With fortifying glasses of sherry in their hands, they were given their tickets and a hamper filled with all sorts of rugby goodies from Springbok shirts, scarves and beanies to a Rugby World Cup DVD and Lions tour guide.

Once we were on the bus, the festivities began with 80’s music playing and a colourful mass of Bokke flags flying out of the bus window to the hilarity of whoever we drove past. Everyone was in high spirits and decked out in their proudly South African finery by the time we reached the stadium.

Once in the suite, guests were treated to platters of beautifully prepared sushi, with colourful California rolls and sublime maki mixed in with wasabi balls and bright pink ginger slices. Chopsticks at the ready, the guests enjoyed the exotic taste of the East before moving onto huge bowls of biltong, peanuts and chips.                                    
The game was intense, the rugby masterful with both teams playing hard to win. In the end, the Lions emerged victorious and with their pride intact. The stadium was filled with red and green shirts, flags and even a few brave Englishmen who had come dressed as ballerinas and angels.

Once the game had started, our guests tucked into some hearty South African fare, enjoying pieces of steak, lamb chops, roasted vegetables, potatoes and chunks of garlic bread. Pieces of fudge, nougat and chocolate mousse cups finished off what was a truly decadent feast.

Some of the comments we have had are:

“That was the greatest day I have had in years – everybody enjoyed it and we can’t stop talking about it. Your arrangements were top class and the food was divine.”

“Thank you to the team at African Palace – we had a fantastic time and it was a truly memorable experience. The day was filled with fun.”

“Thank you again for all of the trouble you guys went to – Saturday was a truly unforgettable experience!”

“We thoroughly enjoyed the fantastic day! Thanks you so much for an amazing event – it will stay in our memories forever!”

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