THE Eastern Province U/18 rugby team has the ability to light up the field with moments of magic when this year’s Craven Week starts on Monday in Middelburg, Mpumalanga.
The EP boys are not in action on the first day but start their campaign with a very tough match against the Sharks on Tuesday.
The Sharks are expected to be one of the strongest sides in Middelburg. Kickoff is at 13:00.
Head coach Elric van Vuuren of Despatch feels he has a team that is able to produce exciting rugby.
“There is loads of talent and that X-factor in this team. I don’t want to take that freedom in their play away by being too structural.
“We have the players in our outside backs and loose forwards who can be dangerous with ball in hand. An expansive style of play suits our team,” Van Vuuren explained.
“It is a bit of an inexperienced squad, but many of the players know each other well from playing together in previous age group teams.
“Our preparation started a bit later than planned this year but I believe we are for the Sharks.
“It is a massive challenge but always nice to measure yourself against the bigger unions.
“We are looking forward to this match and are very excited,” he added.
Van Vuuren feels it helps that the coaching staff also know each other well. Forward coach Sebastian Hilpert and Van Vuuren played together for the EP senior side.
“I know Abe Smith from our student days at Kovsies, so there is a positive vibe amongst the coaches. We can see that rubbing off on the players.”
The eighth man Pietman Kleinhans will captain the side, with centre Erin Nelson as the vice-captain.
Kleinhans has been outstanding for Nico Malan this year.
“He leads by example. Many of the players in the squad played under his captaincy in age group teams in previous years.
“Nelson (Graeme College) is still a U/17 player, but is someone to watch out for at the Week,” Van Vuuren predicted.
The Academy Week also takes place in Middelburg. This EP side also takes on the Sharks in their first match, but on Monday at 12:45.
