After a two year break, it’s absolutely awesome that community club rugby is back on the calender.
Ask anyone in the club rugby fraternity and they will tell you there is nothing more tense than the buildup week to the first league fixtures.
Our Helderberg-based clubs have had entertaining warm-up matches and seem to be ready for action. Looking at this week’s fixtures, they won’t have it all their way though.
Helderberg vs St George’s – Super B League at Charles Morkel Stadium
Berge have opted for heavy weights as opponents in pre-season matches. While the scoreboard has not been positive, I’m sure the fitness and intensity of the players will make them highly confident for this fixture. The Lulus can never be under estimated and have in the past won this fixture. A tactical physical game can be expected with the fast paced St George’s causing headaches for the heavier Helderberg.
All Saints vs Belhar – Super B at Helderzicht
Saints have in the past proven they deserve to be in Super B, but the time has come for them to show that they not just filling up the numbers. Belhar are a club that believe they should be in Super A and have secured the financial backing to push for that goal. I have however never seen R200 bills run out to play. While many will see this fixture as David vs Goliath, I see it as Goliath vs Goliath.
Strand vs Elsies River – Super C at Elsies
Strand have gone about their pre–season quietly but very efficiently. A wounded Strand is a dangerous Strand. They have their sights firmly set on promotion and rightly so. Elsies are no longer that feared opposition on their home turf and will struggle to contain the well-oiled Strand Machine.
Macassar vs Pniel Villagers – Super C at Pniel
Macassar looked sluggish in the initial pre–season start, but are suddenly looking more organized and goal driven. Pniel are not the same dominant force they were few years back and will slowly be broken down by a physical MC Boys outfit.
Raithby Universals vs Kylemore – Super C at Kylemore
This is another derby that could go either way, but home advantage will play a role. RU are unpredictable and at times brilliant. Kylemore are a proud club and will not give an inch in this fixture. One thing is for sure . . . the winners will wear red, black and white.
Sir Lowrians vs Windmeul – Northern League at Paarl
The Navy Train steam engine is warming up, ready to compete and get back to the top. With structures quietly being put in place, this sleeping giant means business. Going to Paarl this time of the year is never easy though.
Gordon’s Bay Pioneers vs Khayelitsha – Metro League at Gordon’s Bay
The first-ever official League fixture for the club that’s an amalgamation of Strand Pioneers and Gordon Leopards. A club with pool the resources to compete in a higher league and we will surely see them there shortly. Khayelitsha should not offer much resistance and the hosts should start a proud history on a winning note.
Good Luck to all clubs, players, management, coaches and referees.
