The first week of competitive club rugby passed as expected with excitement and plenty of drama.
There were a few surprise results, but most outcomes were as expected, of based on preseason form.
This week’s fixtures are yet again a tense affair. As it’s the last round before the Easter break, I hope the matches will be supported in big numbers, in true club-rugby spirit.
) Helderberg vs Belhar (Belhar)
Berge comes off the high of a derby win, while Belhar’s weaknesses were exposed by a gutsy All Saints last week. But Belhar at home is a different beast all together, so they should put up a performance worthy of their self proclaimed Super B favourites tag. Berge are spoken of as favourites as well, but this match should set them apart.
) St George’s vs Hands & Heart (Gustrouw)
The Lulus would want to get back to winning ways, but H&H are not pushovers. This will be an evenly contested match, with homeground support making the hosts favourites. The disappointment of the derby loss must be forgotten, though.
) All Saints vs Goodwood (Goodwood)
Saints are looking competitive and enterprising. Travelling to Goodwood and winning is nothing new for the Somerset West boys, but the hosts come off a bad loss and will be dangerous.
) Strand vs Morning Star (Durbanville)
The first-ever league fixture between these two clubs ended with Morning Stars winning at Gustrouw. Strand will be keen to avenge that defeat by a team that seem less settled this time around. Another convincing away win will cement Strand’s Super C favourites tag, even this early in the season.
) Macassar vs Elsies River (Macassar)
The MC Boys have an opportunity to put their pre-season fiasco behind them if they manage to get maximum points against lowly Elsies. Macassar must capitalise on the morale-boosting opportunity.
) Raithby Universals vs Albions (Raithby)
RU are a different team at home with their vocal supporters. Albions will travel confidently, but should travel back to Paarl with tails between their legs.
) Gordon’s Bay Pioneers vs Faure (Macassar)
This is a new regional derby. Both clubs could and should compete in the Northern League, but they’ll look back at this season as a foundation builder. The heavier GBP forwards will dominate, but they should be careful of the Faure backs.
) Sir Lowrians vs Van der Stel Evergreens (Stellenbosch)
Sir Lowrians are looking good, but face a more than decent team. The contest should be even and could go a long way in determining who wins this league.
