Author: nemslie

Grey College delivered a masterclass in precision rugby to blow away their rivals Grey High, winning their King Price Derby Series clash 48-15 on a windy Kolisi Field, in Gqeberha, on Saturday.

The home team may have been disappointed with their lack of accuracy at times, but that doesn’t detract from the ruthlessly clinical performance of Grey College, who swept in for six tries in the first half to surge into a massive 38-0 lead at the break.

As committed as they were on defence, so, too, were they lethal on attack, which was typified by their third try which began with the Gqeberha team camped in the Grey College 22.

The Bloem boys were quick to sense an opportunity for a counter-ruck, which won them the ball, and it was quickly sent to outstanding fullback Lamla Mgedezi, who went on a thrilling 70-metre run for a try which knocked the wind out of the home team’s sails.

While Grey High had their chances early on, they struggled to break down the visiting defence. In contrast, Grey College wasted no time in seizing their opportunities. Within the first 16 minutes, they had gone over for two tries from their powerful mauls.

They had already shown their cohesion up front when, from a lineout five metres from their line, they drove the Grey High pack back some 15 metres to give themselves some breathing space.

It was no surprise then, when the home team infringed twice in succession, that Grey College kicked for touch and then drove Xander Smit over for their first try and Alexi Tyropolis for their second.

The magical Mgedezi then showed his pace before powerful centre Ethan Adams proved unstoppable on the left flank when Grey College went on the attack again.

Smit registered his second try after another driving maul and the visitors showed their confidence and attacking skill when they won an opposing lineout on the halfway line with the clock showing that it was time up for halftime.

Instead of kicking the ball safely into touch, Grey College launched another offensive. They spread the ball wide and Mgedezi delivered a deft back-of-the-hand pass for wing Benjamin van den Berg to sprint over for the first of his two tries.

At halftime, matters looked ominous for the Grey High team, but, to their credit, they stayed in the fight until the end, and, in fact, outscored their opponents by three tries to two in the second half.

The first came in the 44^th minute when a slick backline move saw centre Bradley Myburgh completely bamboozle the College defence to score near the poles.

Later, lively wing Noah Mbizi was on hand to score two outstanding tries, which exhibited his great commitment and pace as he weaved his way through the visiting defence.

Those tries were negated somewhat by Grey College’s strong running, with centre O’Ryan Klein, who was in the thick of things, helping the visitors to cross for further tries by Van den Berg and left-wing Thristan Maree.

Van den Berg’s second try was set up by another masterful contribution from Mgedezi. When Grey High kicked deep into the College 22, all it did was give the classy fullback a chance to show what he could do as he slipped past defenders while turning defence into attack. Eventually, the ball was eventually recycled down the right flank and there was nothing the home defence could do to plug all the gaps.

While it was another convincing win for Grey College, there was plenty of excitement throughout the match and it added another exciting chapter to add to the outstanding derby between two schools who enjoy a rich pedigree of sport.

In other matches, Marlow Agricultural suffered another agonising defeat when they went down 24-26 to Pearson in Nxuba, while Brandwag and Nico Malan cruised to comfortable wins over DF Malherbe (109-0) and Daniel Pienaar (38-8) respectively in Kariega.

Scorers:

Grey College 48 (38) – Tries: Xander Smit (2), Benjamin van den Berg (2), Alexi Tyropolis, Lamla Mgedezi, Ethan Adams, Thristan Maree. Conversions: O’Ryan Klein (4). Grey High School 15 (0) – Tries: Noah Mbizi (2), Bradley Myburgh.

Queen’s College has built up an outstanding record this season, with just two defeats and a draw in their 16 matches, but they know that will count for little if they don’t maintain their high standard for the remainder of the season.

As the schools programme moves into its final month of the year, the challenge that looms for the Komani side is Selborne College, whom they face at 15:00 in East London on Saturday (15.00).

While they already beat Selborne 40-22 at home earlier in the season, Queen’s coach Clinton Loest knows his side cannot rest on their laurels. “Playing Selborne at The Fortress is always a massive challenge for Queen’s College,” he said. “They have had a very good run, and we know they will be keen to keep their proud home record intact.”

Under astute coach Allan Miles, Selborne has hit their straps lately, establishing themselves as the top guns in East London, while they have also scored notable wins over Marlow, Pearson and Dale College.

It has not been a great season for Selborne, but their massive rugby tradition means that they’re a team that can never be underestimated. They will fight until the final whistle.

They warmed up for Saturday’s huge showdown with an 83-0 demolition of Ooskus Gymnasium on Wednesday afternoon.

Loest has not lost sight of the end goal for Queen’s. “We are proud of how the team has performed this season to date, but we are very aware that there are many challenges that still lie ahead for us, for which we need to prepare well.,” he said.

The Queen’s mentor is not wrong. Following Saturday’s game, Queen’s faces a tough challenge against Graeme College in Makhanda (9 August), followed by a match against Cambridge High in Komani (16 August) and a big derby against Dale, also in Komani (23 August).

In Qonce, Graeme College will be tested by Dale College, despite the home side having suffered a number of defeats this season. Most notably, they went down to Stirling last weekend, but that should only make them more determined to get back on the winning trail on Saturday.

Port Rex will also be smarting after suffering a loss to Ooskus Gymnasium and Cambridge could feel the backlash in their showdown at Port Rex. The home side will also want to celebrate their Founders’ weekend in style.

Teams:

Selborne College: 15 Bungqina Nuku, 14 Oliver Schmidt, 13 Njongo Mbanga, 12 Armand van Rooyen, 11 Iviwe Kabale, 10 Samuel Jacobsen, 9 Aaron Senekal, 8 Uviwe Jikwana, 7 Dominic Stegmann, 6 Travis Enslin, 5 Luca Liebenberg, 4 Matthew Beän, 3 Zothando Mrara, 2 Liam Hansen (captain), 1 Robert John-Osunkwo.

Queen’s College: 15 Mveli Mqolo, 14 Ayathanda Mtyando, 16 Thina Fenako, 12 Sbabalwe Magwebu, 11 Ncutu Kepe, 10 Inganathi Mnunu, 9 Ayola Somhlahlo, 8 Khaka Xoseni, 7 Acwenga Saul, 6 Jeffrey Niland (captain), 5 Sambesiwe Vetman, 4 Zeacke Mata, 3 Ahlume Gqetywa, 2 Bulumko Manqina, 1 Amyoli Ngxongwana.

Dale College: 15 Inga Mafanga, 14 Yamkele Molose, 13 Milani Madide, 12 Phikolomzi Mtyalela, 11 Mahle Mehlomane, 10 Soso Dyani, 9 Onikwa Boniwe, 8 Kamva Sithole (captain), 7 Liyabona Mayikana, 6 Linamandla Peter, 5 Kungawo Jaca, 24 Ebenezer Sarpong, 3 Sanele Bistoli, 2 Lakhanya Mbewu, 1 Azole Sodlaka.

Graeme College: 15 Lucritia Magau, 14 Alden Walters, 13 Erin Nelson, 12 Torres Fourie, 11 Elgin Fanton, 10 Ethan Bokbaard, 9 Luke Doyle, 8 Ayamile Bill, 7 Ayola Mali, 6 Lwandle Dlamini, 5 Mikhulu Yolani, 4 Akho Tonjeni, 3 Athi Bonga, 2 Lebo Mahasele, 1 Bagcine Njengele.

Port Rex: 15 Phumelela Sheleni, 14 Deano Snyman, 13 Siyo Dubula, 12 Owam Nqweniso, 11 Hlalumi Tisane, 10 Mivuyo Kongela, 9 Lluthando Maseti, 8 Lonwabo Mtwapi (captain), 7 Lutho Majavu, 6 Kwakhanya George, 5 Zuko Badji, 4 Ethan Schoeman, 3 Liam Botha, 2 Mlibo Makupula, 1 Siyema Mdyogolo.

Cambridge: 15 Lithemba Mpikwa, 14 Lisakhanya Magoxo, 13 Liqhame Mkanzana, 12 Somili Pityi, 11 Imange Roto, 10 Sivuyise Salman, 9 Manga Mlonyeni, 8 Somila Mooi, 7 Othandwayo Mtotoba, 6 Hlonipha Zweni, 5 Nakwesi Masiso, 4 Luxolo Mashaba, 3 Lwandle Rasi, 2 Kwakhanya Nweba, 1 Iviwe Mzingayi.

Stirling: to be confirmed.

Hudson Park: 15 Mahle Zinto, 14 Bahlumile Mavuso, 13 Ukhona Kama, 12 Lunathi Dolo, 11 Masibulele Kwakwini, 10 Likho Gidi, 9 Landile Gidi, 8 Sibabalwe Mtshini, 7 Likhanye Mandila, 6 Phindokuhle Mdlalana, 5 Hlumelo Gobile, 4 Sange Gwarube, 3 Tyrique Peters, 2 Kwakokuhle Pasha, 1 Manyano Mpendu.

Grey High is braced for what is often the toughest challenge in SA schoolboy rugby when they meet their Bloemfontein rivals, Grey College, in a King Price Series Derby encounter on the Kolisi Field, in Gqeberha, on Saturday at 15.30.

The visitors have dominated the annual derby, with Grey High having to go back to 2014 for their last victory, a nail-biting 27-20 win, which ended with Grey College hard on attack. Now, the class of 2025 has their chance to make a statement.

Grey High coach Matt King acknowledged the significance of the occasion: “We think of this as the ultimate test,” he said. “To be able to play against what is historically the greatest rugby school in the world is a privilege reserved for very few sides, so it’s something we really value.”

While the emotions of excitement and nervousness are running through the squad, the Grey High coach wants a performance of which his players can be proud.

“We are focusing on what we do well but will need to be accurate in all areas if we are going to be competitive,” he said.

“In our view, if we can match them physically, put them into pressure situations, and take our opportunities when they arise, then anything is possible.

“The team has had a good build-up to the game, and they know that only a really proud performance will be accepted on Saturday.”

While Grey College, with dangerous weapons, powerhouse centre Ethan Adams and fullback Lamla Mgedezi, leading the way, will start as the outright favourite, coach Bobby Joubert has been careful not to allow complacency to creep into their ranks.

“The match versus Grey High has a lot of tradition and is always a very important fixture on our calendar,” he said.

“I believe it might be nice and wet this weekend, so that could be an equaliser, and they always play their best against us, so we are preparing for a very tough match.”

The history between the schools goes back to their first meeting in 1929, but the early matches were irregular, at best.

Grey College won that opening game 16-0 and recorded further victories in 1930 (9-7 at Grey High) and in 1953 (13-3 in Bloemfontein).

This was followed by two draws in 1963 and 1968 before the derby became a permanent fixture on the schools’ calendar in 1972.

Grey High recorded their first win in 1976 (13-12) when star wing Robbie Logan slotted a last-minute penalty, while the Gqeberha school’s best period came in the early 1990s when they drew in 1990 (6-6) and then won three successive home games in 1992, 1994 and 1996.

They have never beaten Grey College in Bloemfontein. The closest they came to pulling off that feat was in 2001 when, under the captaincy of Luke Watson, they lost 15-18.

In other action this weekend, Marlow Agricultural will be aiming to bounce back after suffering an agonising 27-30 defeat against Queen’s College last weekend. They host Pearson in Nxuba.

Interestingly, Pearson is the only Eastern Cape side to have beaten Queen’s this season and they come off a hard-earned 10-10 draw with Graeme College on a wet and muddy field last Saturday.

They will need to rise to the occasion again to hold a tough Marlow outfit.

In two matches in Kariega, Brandwag will start as the favourite against DF Malherbe, while Nico Malan will need to be on their guard when they face Daniel Pienaar.

Grey High vs Grey College results since 2014

2014: Grey High won 27-20
2015: Grey College won 32-21
2016: Grey College won 33-7
2017: Grey College won 73-10
2018: Grey College won 63-8
2019: Grey College won 58-0
2020: Covid-19
2021: Covid-19
2022: Grey College won 52-34
2023: Grey College won 38-14
2024: Grey College won 41-27

Teams:

Grey High vs Grey College at Kolisi Field in Gqeberha at 15:30

Grey High: 15 Meyer Prinsloo, 14 Noah Mbizi, 13 Bradley Myburgh, 12 Ciaran Killian, 11 Akhumzi Masoka, 10 Ned Taggart, 9 Ray-Dylan Wilkinson, 8 David Melariri, 7 Jean Nel, 6 Cody Wilmot, 5 Ed Scorey, 4 Riley Higgs, 3 Ross Atkinson, 2 Blake Parker, 1 Evan Mucka.

Grey College: 15 Lamla Mgedezi, 14 Benjamin van den Berg, 13 Ethan Adams, 12 O’Ryan Klein, 11 Thristan Maree, 10 Toriq Schambreel, 9 Sherwin Buys, 8 AJ Booysen, 7 Adem Nieuwoudt, 6 Xander Smit, 5 AJ Meyer, 4 Claude Steyn, 3 JG Badenhorst, 2 Tian Fourie, 1 David Hayidakis.

Marlow Landbou vs Pearson, near Cradock, at 14:00

Marlow: 15 Du Preez Vermaak, 14 Pierre Marais, 13 Dawid-Malan de Ridder, 12 Ockert du Preez, 11 WJ Pienaar, 10 Cole Hurter, 9 Logan van Vuuren, 8 GD Jordaan (vice-captain), 7 Adrian Joubert, 6 CJ Botha, 5 Marnus Malan, 4 Burgert van Heerden, 3 Herman le Roux, 2 Markus Bester, 1 Zian Jacobs.

Pearson: 15 Denilo Jordaan (vice-captain), 14 Matthew Els, 13 Sibu Mkhontwana, 12 Hanro Botes, 11 Siya Ncwadi, 10 Keano Beling, 9 Kadin Kretzmann, 8 Robert Harris, 7 Cameron Knoetze (captain), 6 Siphe Myataza, 5 Mlibo Toni, 4 Ryan Herbst, 3 Jordan Bruintjies, 2 Nicholas Gillespie, 1 Joshua Pienaar.

Die Brandwag vs DF Malherbe in Kariega at 14:00

Brandwag: 5 Rezanio Petrus, 14 Enzo Martin, 13 Angelo Adams, 12 Derono Potgieter, 11 Dwayne Louw, 10 Leewin Kammies, 9 Zanick Carolus, 8 Duane Meyer, 7 Erik Rudman, 6 Josh Badenhorst, 5 Damian le Roux, 4 Justin Swanepoel, 3 Francu Fouche, 2 Liam Erasmus, 1 Zandré van der Mescht.

DF Malherbe: to be confirmed

Daniel Pienaar vs Nico Malan in Kariega at 13:15

Daniel Pienaar: 15 Raqiel Jaftha, 14 Chibuzo David, 13 Zinzile Mtoywa, 12 Luyanduhlanga Ndzimande, 11 Sibabalwe Kopisani, 10 Ashley Liesing, 9 Rozario Grootboom, 8 Stiaan Coertze, 7 Luphawu Manzine, 6 Etto Mapapu, 5 Josh Steyn, 4 Ntsako Maimela, 3 Clewin Papenfus, 2 Denovan Booysen, 1 Awakhe Kume.

Nico Malan: 15 Regan Stone, 14 Kobus Strydom, 13 Gelden van Niekerk, 12 Enzo Machaba, 11 Tequane Koopman, 10 Leighton Lawrence, 9 Lleyton Mienie, 8 Pietman Kleinhans (captain), 7 Chrisjan de Lange, 6 Neil Lategan, 5 Ruben van Dijk, 4 Ulrich van Zyl, 3 Waldo Krige, 2 MC Ferreira, 1 Janu Janse van Rensburg.

Queen’s College withstood a massive onslaught from the home team, Marlow Agricultural, to shade their opponents 30-27 in Nxuba in another typically robust duel between the Eastern Cape rivals.

The visitors rocked the Marlow outfit in the first 15 minutes, dominating territory and pouring on the pressure to run up a 15-3 lead with tries by centre Splash Mgwebu and hooker Bulumko Manqina, plus a conversion and a penalty from fullback Mveli Mqolo.

But then came a Marlow fightback of such intensity that it sent out a reminder to all why they can never be taken lightly by any team.

In the 32nd minute, livewire scrumhalf Logan van Vuuren took a quick tap from a penalty close to the Queen’s line and eluded the defenders to spark the Marlow fightback.

Three minutes later, with halftime showing on the clock, an electrifying break in midfield saw Marlow recycle the ball swiftly for flank Adrian Joubert to storm over. David-Malan de Ridder, who had earlier kicked a penalty, slotted the conversion and suddenly it was all square.

After the break, Queen’s judged ahead again when Mqolo went over (20-15) and then it became an arm-wrestle, with both sides finding a way to add points to the board.

De Ridder sliced through for a try, which he converted in the 46^th minute, but Queen’s was back in front seven minutes later when Mqolo slotted a second penalty (23-22).

It appeared, though, that Marlow was gaining the upper hand and they turned their territorial domination into a fourth try from a driving maul, scored by flank CJ Botha.

But Queen’s are never anything less than dangerous when they have their backs to the wall and with six minutes remaining, centre Thina Fenako went over for the match-winning try, which Mqolo converted, to seal the victory in an epic encounter.

In East London, Stirling High produced one of their best performances of the season to edge out Dale College by a single point, 18-17.

In a terrific team effort, their tries came from Keagan Warburton and Khwezi Mnyande, while Lomelelo Fotoyi slotted two penalties and a conversion.

In another classic encounter, Ooskus Gymnasium also rose to the occasion to record a solid 25-12 win over Port Rex, who had convincingly beaten them 43-10 earlier in the season.

After leading 15-7 at the break, following tries by Cole van der Merwe and Sabian Rieck, Ooskus scored a further two tries in the second half, with Van der Merwe crossing again and Zander Brink adding their fourth.

Scrumhalf Juan Nel kicked a penalty and a conversion.

Selborne College and Hudson Park engaged in a ding-dong battle for supremacy, with the former eventually getting home 30-26.

In Kariega, Die Brandwag powered to a lopsided 62-3 victory over Muir College to secure the Tinara Cup, which features a three-way competition with HTS Daniel Pienaar.

With one match to play against Daniel Pienaar, Brandwag has already done enough – two wins over Muir and one over Daniel Pienaar – to be crowned the 2025 champions.

Conditions in the Nelson Mandela Bay metro and surrounding areas were less than ideal for rugby, with rainy and cold conditions persisting throughout the afternoon.

Those resulted in a low-scoring 10-10 draw between Pearson and Graeme College, while, in a freezing Humansdorp, Nico Malan had too many guns for the visiting DF Malherbe team, winning 50-5.

Scorers

Queen’s College 30 (15) – Tries: Splash Mgwebu, Bulumko Manqina, Mveli Mqolo, Thina Fenako. Penalties: Mqolo (2). Conversions: Mqolo (2). Marlow Agricultural 27 (15) – Tries: Logan van Vuuren, Adrian Joubert, Dawid-Malan de Ridder, CJ Botha. Penalties: De Ridder. Conversions: De Ridder (2).

Stirling High 18 – Tries: Keagan Warburton, Khwezi Mnyande. Penalties: Lomelelo Fotoyi (2). Conversion: Fotoyi. Dale College 17 – Tries: Ebenezer Sarpong, Azole Sodlaka, Milani Madide. Conversion: Soso Dyani.

Cambridge High 71 – Tries: Mange Mlonyeni, Lithemba Mpikwa, Lwandle Rasi, Imange Roto, Aaron Ray, Sivuyise Salman, Somila Pityi, Libango Mkonwana, Hlonipa Zweni, Joshua Adjei-Frimpong. Mdantsane Hurricanes 0.

Selborne College 30 (22) – Tries: Robert John-Osunkwo, Oliver Schmidt (2), Matthew Bean. Penalties: Bunqgina Nuku (2). Conversions: Nuku (2). Hudson Park 26 (7) – scorers not supplied.

Ooskus Gym 25 (15) – Tries: Cole van der Merwe (2), Sabian Rieck, Zander Brink. Penalty: Jaun Nel. Conversion: Nel. Port Rex 12 (7): not supplied.

Pearson 10 (10) – Tries: Matthew Els. Penalty: Kadin Kretzmann. Conversion: Kretzmann. Graeme College 10 (3) – Tries: Elgin Fanton. Penalty: Ethan Bokbaard. Conversion Bokbaard.

Brandwag 62 – Tries: Damian le Roux (2), Dwayne Louw (2), Enzo Martin, Keeran Kayster, Leewin Kammies, Zanick Carolus, Jadin Erasmus, Zandre van der Mescht. Conversions: Leewin Kammies (2), Kayster, Rezanio Petrus, Francu Fouche, Van der Mescht. Muir College 3.

Grey High School‘s effective lineout maul rose to the occasion in the nick of time to help them avert a fourth straight loss to Framesby with a 19-15 win in a pulsating King Price Derby Series clash on the Kolisi Field, in Gqeberha, on Saturday.

The match was played in extremely muddy conditions, with rain pouring down at stages, and the visitors were left dejected and soaked at the end.

They agonisingly failed to pull off another memorable win after taking the lead for the first time in the match in the 63^rd minute with a try by flank David Matyani.

Jaiden Brewis‘s conversion made it 15-14 to Framesby with the final whistle looming, but Grey kept their composure and forced their way into their opponents’ territory.

A penalty in their favour and a kick into the 22 set them up for another driving maul. Framesby had struggled to hold them in that department in the first half, and Grey’s cohesion and power was again too much, with flank Cody Wilmot crossing for his third try.

With just three minutes remaining, Grey won a lineout from the kick-off and again produced a devastating driving maul, which carried them about 40 metres downfield and ended in another penalty.

Although Framesby stole the ball from the final lineout, they were pegged deep in their territory and there was no way for them to exit.

The challenging conditions prevented the match from being a spectacle, but there was no doubting the courage and passion of both sides as they fought for supremacy on a slippery field.

Grey scored first through Wilmot from a lineout maul, with Tristan Kemp adding the conversion, but Framesby made it 7-5 at the break when hooker Luke Didoft dived over after a series of forward drives close to the Grey line.

Three minutes into the second half, Wilmot returned the compliment to make it 14-7 as it became Grey’s turn to apply the pressure.

With 10 minutes to go, Brewis landed a penalty and soon after that they went ahead through Matyani, only to be denied by a final, determined Grey effort.

Scorers

Grey High School 19 (7) – Tries: Cody Wilmot (3). Conversions: Tristan Kemp (2). Framesby 15 (5) – Tries: Luke Didoft, David Matyani. Penalty: Jaiden Brewis. Conversion: Jaiden Brewis.

Hudson Park High could hardly have chosen tougher opponents as they attempt to halt a harrowing spell of defeats when they host East London rivals Selborne College on Saturday at 14.30.

Coach Onke Dubase‘s Hudson team has suffered five defeats in their last six matches, including an agonizing 24-31 loss to Port Rex in their last encounter in which they conceded a try in the closing stages.

It will be a real test of their character to regain that winning feeling against a Selborne team which is aiming to establish itself as East London’s best this season.

While they have not had the best year, Selborne have shown themselves to be a cut above the rest in the Buffalo City metro so far. Hudson Park looms as the last side with a chance to inflict a defeat on them.

Powerful Hudson No 8 Sibabalwe Mtshini will have to lead from the front to give his team a chance of a positive result, while the halfback pairing of Landile and Likho Gidi will need to quickly find their rhythm to unleash their backs.

Selborne prop and captain Robert John-Osunkwo has been a significant factor in their success this year and with support from his forwards, including hardworking flank Dominic Stegmann, will aim to set the platform to continue their winning ways against East London opposition.

In other matches, Dale College will be looking to get back to winning ways when they travel to East London to face Stirling High (13.40).

Both teams have struggled at times this season, but there is enough pride and passion in the two schools’ rugby tradition to ensure a tough fight for supremacy until the final whistle.

Meanwhile, Port Rex will be eager to build on their notable win over Hudson Park when they play the return fixture against Ooskus Gymnasium at the Ooskus ground in a morning game (10.40).

The second term clash was comfortably won 43-10 by Port Rex and it will take a massive effort by the home side to reverse that result.

Teams:

Hudson Park vs Selborne College in East London at 14:30

Hudson Park: 15 Mahle Zinto, 14 Bahlumile Mavuso, 13 Ukhona Kama, 12 Lunathi Dolo, 11 Masibulele Kwakwini, 10 Likho Gidi, 9 Landile Gidi, 8 Sibabalwe Mtshini, 7 Likhanye Mandila, 6 Phindokuhle Mdlalana, 5 Hlumelo Gobile, 4 Tautenda Saunyama, 3 Tyrique Peters, 2 Kwakokuhle Pasha, 1 Manyano Mpendu.

Selborne College: 15 Sam Jacobsen, 14 Oliver Schmidt, 13 Njongo Mbanga, 12 Armand van Rooyen, 11 Iviwe Kabale, 10 Bungqina Nuku, 9 Aaron Senekal, 8 Uviwe Jikwana, 7 Dominic Stegmann, 6 Travis Enslin, 5 Luca Liebenberg, 4 Matthew Beän, 3 Zothando Mrara, 2 Liam Hansen, 1 Robert John-Osunkwo (captain).

Stirling High vs Dale College in East London at 13:40

Dale College: 15 Inga Mafanga, 14 Achumile George, 13 Milani Madide, 12 Nxande Ngcaba, 11 Amahle Mehlomane, 10 Soso Dyani, 9 Wethumtha Malawana, 8 Kamva Sithole, 7 Liyabona Mayikana, 6 Linamandla Peter, 5 Liyabonga Mqingwana, 24 Ebenezer Sarpong, 3 Phawu Ludwaba, 2 Oluhle Fihla, 1 Azole Sodlaka.

Stirling: N/A

Port Rex vs Ooskus Gym at 10:40 in East London

Port Rex: 15 Phumelela Sheleni, 14 Deano Snyman, 13 Mivuyo Kongela, 12 Owam Nqweniso, 11 Hlalumi Tisane, 10 Ndimphiwe Songqwaba, 9 Lluthando Maseti, 8 Lonwabo Mtwapi (captain), 7 Lutho Majavu, 6 Siyo Dubula, 5 Kwakhanya George, 4 Ethan Schoeman, 3 Liam Botha, 2 Mlibo Makupula, 1 Siyema Mdyogolo.

Ooskus Gym: N/A

Marlow Agricultural will be aiming to become only the second Eastern Cape team to put one over Queen’s College this season when they square up in a fascinating clash at Marlow on Saturday.

The Queenians are currently riding a six-match winning streak, having beaten all the big guns in the region, with their last loss coming at the KES Easter Festival against Rondebosch, in Johannesburg, way back in April.

The only local team to have beaten them this year is Pearson, who won a close encounter 20-17 at the Graeme College Festival in Makhanda.

It’s safe to say that Queen’s have picked themselves up in impressive fashion since that setback and the confidence they have gained from getting the better of such formidable opponents, such as Selborne College, Grey High, and St Andrew’s College should make them favourites to win again.

With their industrious flank and captain Jeffrey Niland leading their charge, Queen’s have built up a strong thread of continuity in their team and backline players such as Ncutu Kepe, Thina Fenako, and Mveli Mqolo have produced some standout efforts.

They will make the trip to Cradock, though, knowing that only the ignorant would not take heed of the threat that Marlow presents.

Although they haven’t enjoyed quite the same sort of success, with four losses and a draw in their 14 games, they are a team capable of rising to the occasion.

Under captain Gian Steyl and vice-captain GD Jordaan, an opportunity to take down the form team in the Eastern Cape this year will have them fired up to produce the goods in front of their home supporters.

If Marlow dominates the territorial game, the boot of centre Dawid-Malan de Ridder could also have a big say in the final outcome.

In Kariega, Muir College will be aiming to overturn an earlier loss to Die Brandwag, but this time it will be away from home in the next round of the Tinara Cup.

Brandwag is in the driving seat of that competition, having already beaten Muir 26-10 and Daniel Pienaar 22-19.

If they can repeat that victory over Muir, they will claim the title, even with the return game against Daniel Pienaar still to come.

Teams:

Marlow Agricultural vs Queen’s College, near Cradock at 14:15.

Marlow Agricultural: 15 Du Preez Vermaak, 14 Ockert du Preez, 13 Dawid-Malan de Ridder, 12 Gian Steyl (captain), 11 WJ Pienaar, 10 Cole Hurter, 9 Logan van Vuuren, 8 GD Jordaan (vice-captain), 7 Adrian Joubert, 6 CJ Botha, 5 Marnus Malan, 4 Burgert van Heerden, 3 Herman le Roux, 2 Markus Bester, 1 Zian Jacobs.

Queen’s College: 15 Mveli Mqolo, 14 Ayathanda Mtyando, 16 Thina Fenako, 12 Splash Magwebu, 11 Ncutu Kepe, 10 Inganathi Mnunu, 9 Ayola Somhlahlo, 8 Khaka Xoseni, 7 Sivuyise Mnyimba, 6 Jeffrey Niland (captain), 5 Sambesiwe Vetman, 4 Acwenga Saul, 3 Ahlume Gqetywa, 2 Bullz Manqina, 1 Zeacke Mata.

Brandwag vs Muir College at 14:10 in Kariega

Brandwag: 15 Wendell Uithaler, 14 Enzo Martin, 13 Angelo Adams, 12 Derono Potgieter, 11 Dwayne Louw, 10 Leewin Kammies, 9 Keeran Kayster, 8 Duane Meyer, 7 Erik Rudman, 6 Josh Badenhorst,
5 Damian le Roux, 4 Justin Swanepoel, 3 Liam Erasmus, 2 Nathan Fraser, 1 Zandré van der Mescht.

Muir: N/A

Grey High will be aiming to exploit their home-ground advantage to put an end to a run of defeats against their Gqeberha arch-rivals, Framesby, in a King Price Derby Series blockbuster, on the Kolisi Field, on Saturday.

After a run of defeats which lasted just more than a decade, the Framesby players have stepped up to the plate in recent years and have registered three successive victories. That fact will have the Grey supporters on edge when the referee blows the opening whistle.

Neither side have been overly impressive this season, with Grey High having lost their last three games to Wynberg Boys’ High, Queen’s College, and St Andrew’s College.

Coach Matt King’s men have not played since that 31 May showdown with St Andrew’s, but their players have been exposed to provincial-level rugby and there is enough talent in their ranks to rise to the occasion.

Burning brightly will be a fierce determination not to suffer a fourth straight defeat to Framesby as they try to salvage something from the season in the final weeks of the school’s programme.

It could boil down to a thrilling clash between the exciting backlines, with players such as Meyer Prinsloo, Bradley Myburgh, and Tristan Kemp poised to challenge the Framesby defence.

The visitors would do particularly well to keep an eye on Prinsloo, whose incisive running from the back has often undone the tightest of defences this season.

Framesby are no slouches in the attacking arena and Cole Hilpert, Mondre van Heerden, and Jaiden Brewis will be fired up to register another momentous result.

There’s been next to nothing between the sides in their last three encounters, with the margin of victory for Framesby being four points in 2022, and two points in 2023 and 2024.

This one could again go down to the wire.

Another exciting clash looms on the Strydom Field, at Pearson, where the home side is gearing up for the traditional onslaught from Graeme College (kick-off 14.20).

Several Graeme players, including Luke Doyle, Erin Nelson, and Lucritia Magau, showed up well at the FNB Craven Week, with Nelson and Magau making the SA Schools A team.

If they find their rhythm early on, they could make things awkward for the home team.

Pearson will rely on the skilful Denilo Jordaan at flyhalf to call the shots, but they also know that only a concerted team effort will help them to get across the line against a potent Graeme outfit.

In Humansdorp, Gqeberha team DF Malherbe will get a chance to test themselves at a higher level with they play Nico Malan (14.40 kick-off).

It will take a mighty effort by the visitors to hold a team which has operated efficiently in all departments this year.

Grey High v Framesby results since 2014

2014: Grey won 29-19
2015: did not play
2016: Grey won 45-19
2017: Grey won 13-9
2018: Grey won 39-19
2019: Grey won 22-17
2022: Framesby won 14-10
2023: Framesby won 17-15
2024: Framesby won 19-17

Teams:

Grey High: 15 Meyer Prinsloo, 14 Noah Mbizi, 13 Bradley Myburgh, 12 Ned Taggart, 11 Akhumzi Masoka, 10 Tristan Kemp, 9 Adam Holmboe, 8 David Melariri, 7 Jean Nel, 6 Cody Wilmot, 5 Ed Scorey, 4 Riley Higgs, 3 Ross Atkinson, 2 Blake Parker, 1 Evan Mucka.

Framesby: 15 Calestin Felkers, 14 Jaco George, 13 Cole Hilpert, 12 Reon Saaiman, 11 Maarten Kleynhans, 10 Jaiden Brewis, 9 Mondre van Heerden, 8 Eden Calitz, 7 Aiden Dennis, 6 David Matyani, 5 JJ de Lange, 4 Raynardt Brown, 3 Owen Wessels, 2 Luke Didoft, 1 Nathan Birkholtz.

Pearson: 15 Keano Beling, 14 Matthew Els, 13 Sibu Mkhontwana, 12 Hanro Botes, 11 Siya Ncwadi, 10 Denilo Jordaan, 9 Kadin Kretzmann, 8 Robert Harris, 7 Cameron Knoetze (captain), 6 Siphe Myataza, 5 Mlibo Toni, 4 Ryan Herbst, 3 Jordan Bruintjies, 2 Nicholas Gillespie, 1 Joshua Pienaar.

Graeme College: 15 Alden Walters, 14 Lucritia Magau, 13 Erin Nelson, 12 Torres Fourie, 11 Elgin Fanton, 10 Ethan Bokbaard, 9 Luke Doyle, 8 Ayamile Bill, 7 Ayola Mali, 6 Lwandle Dlamini, 5 Mikhulu Yolani, 4 Akho Tonjeni, 3 Athi Bonga, 2 Lebo Mahasele, 1 Bagcine Njengele.

Nico Malan: 15 Elroy Skosana, 14 Kobus Strydom, 13 Gelden van Niekerk, 12 Enzo Machaba, 11 Tequane Koopman, 10 Leighton Lawrence, 9 Lleyton Mienie, 8 Pietman Kleinhans (captain), 7 Chrisjan de Lange, 6 MC Ferreira, 5 Ruben van Dijk, 4 Ulrich van Zyl, 3 Andre van der Merwe, 2 Janu Janse van Rensburg, 1 Waldo Krige.

DF Malherbe: not available.

Having successfully seen off the challenge of Stirling High last week, Hudson Park will be aiming to finish their second term programme on a high note when they host Port Rex in East London at 14.30 on Saturday.

Their derby clash continues a fascinating rivalry between the schools. Both teams will be fired up to ensure it’s an afternoon of celebration for their supporters.

A comparative look at their results suggests that Hudson Park will start as strong favourites.

Port Rex and Stirling drew 17-17, while Hudson cruised to a 41-7 triumph last Saturday.

Against Queen’s College, Port Rex ran out of steam after a fighting display in the first half to leak 30 points in the second, going down 10-57 at The Rec, in Komani. Hudson, on the other hand, albeit playing at home, put in a stronger performance to lose 18-32 to Queen’s.

Nonetheless, both sides know that past results will count for nothing when the ref’s whistle signals the start of their match on Saturday.

Port Rex wasn’t in action last weekend so they will have to find their rhythm against a team who were impressive in dismantling the Stirling defence, with outside centre Lunathi Dolo their standout player.

Bustling No 8 Sibabalwe Mtshini crossed for two tries in that game and he will again be one to watch, while the halfback combination of Likho and Landile Gidi have a close understanding, which could give them the edge.

In the other match in East London, Stirling hosts Selborne College at 13:30. They will need to lift their game to match the visitors.

The Selbornians were solid in defence against Cambridge High last Friday, and equally efficient on attack, running in six tries in a 42-0 victory.

It would be a surprise if they were not able to build on that against Stirling. Allan Miles is an astute coach, and he will keep his Selborne side grounded for the showdown.

Teams

Hudson Park: 15 Mahle Zinto, 14 Bahlumile Mavusa, 13 Ukhona Kama, 12 Lunathi Dolo, 11 Masibulele Kwakwini, 10 Likho Gidi, 9 Landile Gidi, 8 Sibabalwe Mtshini, 7 Likhanye Mandila, 6 Phindokuhle Mdlalana, 5 Sange Gwarube, 4 Hlumelo Gobile, 3 Tyrique Peters, 2 Kwakokuhle Pasha, 1 Manyano Mpendu.

Port Rex: 15 Phumelela Sheleni, 14 Deano Snyman, 13 Mivuyo Kongela, 12 Owam Nqweniso, 11 Hlalumi Tisane, 10 Ndimphiwe Songqwaba, 9 Lluthando Maseti, 8 Lonwabo Mntwapi (capt), 7 Lutho Majavu, 6 Siyo Dubula, 5 Kwakhanya George, 4 Ethan Schoeman, 3 Liam Botha, 2 Mlibo Makupula, 1 Siyema Mdyogolo.

Makhanda powerhouse St Andrew’s College will subject their outstanding season to a gruelling examination when they visit the Graveyard, in Qonce, on Saturday, to take on Dale College at 15:15.

The teams could hardly have had more contrasting fortunes this season. Dale has only three wins from 14 matches, while St Andrew’s sports 13 victories, one draw, and a single defeat from their 15 encounters.

The Makhanda team is, also, fresh off a thrilling and morale-boosting 25-22 win over their arch-rivals, Kingswood College.

And yet the feeling persists that the Dalians will not be pushovers at a venue which has not earned its nickname for nothing.

With little to lose, the home side will be fired up to cause an upset, but they will need to make sure they match St Andrew’s up front so as to allow flyhalf Soso Dyani to unleash his backs.

Dangerous runners fill the Dale backline and St Andrew’s coach Jonny Mallett knows that they his side will have to be up to speed in their defensive work to snuff out that threat.

St Andrew’s will be missing star fullback Will Stevens, whose all-round play and accurate kicking have been a significant factor in their success this season. He is on Craven Week warm-up duty, but they have quality cover in their squad. Regular scrumhalf David Chorley will wear the number 15 jersey, while Connor Malan takes over at halfback.

It should be another St Andrew’s victory, as long as they do not take anything for granted.

Graeme College returns to action with a trip to Graaff-Reinet for their annual showdown with Union High, which kicks off at 13.20.

Coach Jonty van der Meulen‘s team is enjoying a very good season and, even with some of their frontline players out, they should have too much in their armoury for the home side.

Union, though, will not lie down for anyone and they have upset the Makhanda side in the past. They’re also coming off heartening wins over Andrew Rabie and Woodridge, and they will relish the prospect of testing themselves against higher-profile opposition.

Kingswood will be missing eight regular players when they host Woodridge in their annual derby at 13.10.

Nonetheless, they will be a formidable hurdle for the Thornhill school, whose last visit to Makhanda ended in a 0-73 defeat at the hands of Port Rex in the Graeme Rugby Festival.

Teams

St Andrew’s College: 15 David Chorley, 14 Asante Chivere, 13 Ali de Kock, 12 Aphindile Ngcuka, 11 Qhawe Madikizela, 10 Oli Johns, 9 Connor Malan, 8 ⁠Joshua van Zyl, 7 ⁠Luca Nigrini, 6 ⁠Coel Trollip, 5 ⁠Matthew Harvey (capt), 4 ⁠William Beamish, 3 ⁠Sivatho Mjali, 2 Amo Habi, 1 Jake Jackson.

Dale College: 15 Inge Mafanga, 14 Achumile George, 13 Milani Madide, 12 Nxande Ngcaba, 11 Amahle Mehlomane, 10 Soso Dyani, 9 Onikwa Boniwe, 8 Kamva Sithole, 7 Liyabona Mqingwana, 6 Linamandla Peter, 5 Kungawo Jaca, 4 Ebenezer Sarpong, 3 Phawu Ludwaba, 2 Lakhanya Mbewu, 1 Azole Sodlaka.