With most club rugby leagues firmly taking shape, it would be naive of clubs not to start doing the maths for promotion spots or getting out a relegation scrap.
Hoping that a few other results will go your way is nothing to be ashamed of, as this is also happens in major sporting leagues across the world.
Now is also the time when dedicated club rugby players put up their hands and perform well. This week’s fixtures are as follows:
) St George’s vs Franschhoek (Gustrouw)
In what was, by their high standards, described as a really disappointing start to the season, the Lulu Boys are back on track for at least a top six play-off spot. A rapidly improving St George’s are a dangerous prospect for their remaining opponents, starting with a Franschhoek team that seems weaker than in previous seasons. The hosts targeting this match for maximum points (five) would not be surprising. Weather conditions may play a role, but St George’s forwards will again lay a solid foundation.
) Helderberg vs Vineyards (Charles Morkel)
Berge seem unstoppable, especially at fortress Morkel. Their solid set-phases and dynamic backs have set them apart this season. An inconsistent Vineyards shouldn’t pose too many questions that the hosts can’t answer. Berge should take all five points.
) Raithby Universals vs Blue Jets (Raithby)
This fixture along with the United versus Elsies fixture can be described as an eight-pointer. These straggling Super League C clubs will be under serious pressure if they don’t pick-up points against each other. RU had a positive showing in the derby against Macassar, but need to bring that energy this week too. Blue Jets’ physicality may be their strength as they have shown their ability to score tries.
) Strand United vs Elsies River (Elsies)
United already have their backs against the wall, although this is only their fifth match. As mentioned, they also need to pick up points against the other bottom four clubs in the league. Elsies showed their ability to gain log points, even in defeat, and should feel they can pull this one off, especially with the comfort of home-ground advantage. Another defeat for United will mean serious questions have to be asked.
) Macassar vs Morning Star (Riverside)
Macassar have had a more than satisfactory first half of the season and should continue their winning ways this week. A derby win is always a morale booster and, after beating Raithby, they should be in high spirits. The MC Boys need to keep winning for their top two semi-final play-off spot aspirations to remain alive. Morning Star has struggled on the road this season and will be the underdogs in this fixture.
) Gordon’s Bay Pioneers vs Sir Lowrians (Gordon’s Bay)
Although this is a mid-season “friendly”, I want to give it some exposure as it’s turned out to be quite a tense new derby in the Helderberg. GBP is flying high in the Metro League, while the Navy Train serious contenders for a top-nine play-off spot in the Northern League. Both clubs need to stay sharp and neither will want a negative result.
