The NWU prestige series roars into its second round this Saturday 14 March, with a feast of fixtures that promise fireworks, feuds and full-blooded collisions. From local derbies dripping with animosity to David-versus-Goliath clashes, this weekend’s action will separate the pretenders from the contenders.
Far East Rand Derby: Die Anker hunt redemption against Hugenote Springs
The short trip from Brakpan to Springs carries heavyweight significance when Die Anker pack their boots for the ultimate grudge match against traditional rivals Hugenote Springs. This isn’t just rugby, it’s war with a referee.
Every encounter between these neighbours transcends the scoreboard. Bragging rights in the far East Rand hang in the balance, and both sides know the social currency that comes with Derby Day dominance. Die Anker arrive smarting from last week’s shellacking at the hands of Wagpos in the series opener, making this clash even more critical.
“It is always interesting when two neighbouring schools play each other, we look forward to a wet but competitive weekend,” said Gavin Fourie, Die Anker’s first XV coach, perhaps understating what promises to be another bruising arm-wrestle between these fierce foes.
With rain forecast and pride on the line, expect fireworks at the breakdown and plenty of niggle at the set piece. Die Anker need this win desperately, not just for the series standings, but to restore belief after their opening round mauling.
Wagpos face ultimate test against series favourites Zwartkop
While Die Anker lick their wounds, the team that inflicted the damage, Wagpos, face an entirely different beast. Zwartkop, widely tipped as one of the favourites to claim the series silverware, roll into Brits with ominous intent.
Zwarries have been meticulous in their preparation, fine-tuning their systems with a pre-season hit-out against St Albans. That clinical approach has David Gouws, Zwartkop’s rugby organiser, wary but confident.
“They are unknown, I saw they beat Die Anker, but there is no video available for their matches. We are going into the unknown, but I know the farm boys are usually very physical. We have had good preparation and a friendly match that tested us in the mud. I just hope it doesn’t rain in Brits,” Gouws said.
Despite their opening round victory, Wagpos face a monumental step up in class. Zwartkop could prove a bridge too far for the Brits boys, though home ground advantage might level the scales in what promises to be a compelling tactical battle.
Coaching chess match: Wesvalia and Lichtenburg renew rivalry
When the “Bloumasjien” and the “Bruin Bere” collide in Klerksdorp on Saturday, expect a coaching masterclass. Wesvalia’s Willem van der Sandt and Lichtenburg’s Michael Bondesio know each other’s playbooks inside out, creating a fascinating tactical duel.
The mutual respect, and competitive edge, between these two coaching heavyweights was evident when Bondesio offered a cryptic response when asked about the match: “Check the blind.”
“We have set a goal for ourselves to win the NWU Prestige series, and Lichtenburg is the first hurdle, in achieving that goal. They are a well coached side and we will need to be at our best,” said Willem vander Sandt.
With such fine margins separating these sides historically, small details could prove decisive. This one will be won in the trenches and through superior game management.
Injury-hit Volkies host KHS in Potchefstroom
Potchefstroom Volkskool face a selection crisis ahead of their clash with Klerksdorp Hoërskool. The home side, still reeling from a 40-17 opening round defeat to Pietersburg, have been decimated by injuries to key personnel.
Both Anro Nel and Lethabo Riet, two of Volkies’ most influential players, have been ruled out, leaving coach Mighael de Beer scrambling for solutions.
“We have been hit by injuries, but this series for us is all about preparation for the Noordvaal Bowl division. But it will be nice if we can beat KHS,” De Beer admitted.
KHS arrive with confidence after their gutsy 26-all draw with Parktown Boys in Potchefstroom last weekend. With Volkies undermanned and confidence fragile, the visitors will fancy their chances of claiming a scalp on enemy territory.
Heidelberg Volkskool look to maintain momentum against Bergsig
After their 66-5 demolition of Jeugland last weekend, Heidelberg Volkskool have sent an ominous warning to the rest of the competition. They now welcome Bergsig to Heidelberg, where the home side will look to build on that explosive performance.
“The tempo of the game will be very high. It is going to be tough, we lost to them last year by one point at home. I have high hopes we have worked hard in the week, so I think we are going to come at each other on Saturday,” said Martin Pelser, 1st XV coach at Bergsig.
Bergsig, who fell 12-0 to Montana in their opener, are objectively a superior outfit to Jeugland and should provide a more accurate barometer of Heidelberg’s title credentials. This shapes as a genuine test for the rampant hosts.
Montana target comfortable win over struggling Jeugland
Montana make the short trip across the Jukskei to face a Jeugland side whose rugby programme has been in freefall for three years. Unless the hosts can conjure some serious magic, their fancied Northern neighbours should register a comfortable victory.
Montana’s physicality and structured approach should overwhelm a Jeugland outfit desperately searching for form and confidence. This could get ugly for the home side.
Round two of the NWU prestige series promises edge-of-the-seat drama. With weather potentially playing a factor and several teams desperate for redemption, this weekend will provide crucial answers about who can genuinely challenge for the title.
Pack the flasks, bring the rain jackets and prepare for great rugby, physical, uncompromising and utterly compelling.
