Easter breaks are always a tricky period for rugby clubs, as it disrupts training times over a two-week period and players tend to become lazy. This year was no different as clubs just got into a groove and were disrupted, but at least everyone was in the same boat.
This week’s fixtures are as intriguing as they are exciting.
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St George’s vs All Saints (Gustrouw)
The Lulu Boys find themselves in the unfamiliar situation of results pressure after two consecutive losses – one a derby and the other a home loss – going into this crunch fixture. Good teams always handle pressure well and they will have to be at their best against a well-drilled and confident All Saints team, coached by former St George’s coach Mirwaan Davids.
The visitors have had a satisfactory start to the season and thumped Goodwood in their last fixture. A tense, close game can be expected with the team handling the pressure better, coming out on top.
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Macassar vs Eerste River (Riverside Park)
The MC Boys versus Rivas, as both clubs are affectionately known, is going to be a cracker.
Macassar are in seventh heaven after a dream start to the season, while the visitors are travelling confidently as well.
With homeground support, wily coaches and a happy group of players, Macassar will be playing for the five points knowing it will confirm their early league favourite tag. On the other hand, Eerste River should never be underestimated.
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Strand vs Pniel Villagers (Pniel)
A traditionally tense match-up between these two clubs, Strand are another club in Super League C setting the scene alight. Pniel have been a bit inconsistent and are no longer the powerhouse they once were at their homeground.
Strand’s pace and finishing touches will cause problems for the home team. Pniel should only stand a realistic chance if the weather is awful and the ground heavy.
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Helderberg vs Bellville (Charles Morkel)
Berge are top in the Super League B and anything less than a victory at Charles Morkel will be a mini disaster for their league aspirations.
One aspect Bellville will compete well in, is in the battle upfront with their decent sized forward pack to match Helderberg. The hosts should take this one.
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Raithby Universals vs CPUT (Raithby)
The timing of this fixture could not come at a better time for Raithby, as CPUT’s focus will be on the Varsity Shield final.
Another win for RU will go a long way for a team still trying to find their way under new coaches. It will be an evenly contested match as CPUT will be weakened and Raithby has the edge with homeground advantage.
- Gordon’s Bay Pioneers and Sir Lowrians have another weekend off.
