Author: nemslie

Elusive Queen’s College fullback Mveli Mqulo sparked a thrilling victory for his team as they continued their outstanding season with a 25-24 win over Grey High, in Komani, on Saturday.

In a clash that went down to the wire, Queen’s trailed their Gqeberha rivals for most of the game but eventually managed to take the lead with a Mqulo-inspired attack in the 54^th minute.

An up-and-under into the Queen’s half was collected by the enterprising fullback and he set off on a weaving run, beating a number of defenders as he raced into the Grey 22. As the cover defence closed in on Mqulo, he found Splash Magwebu in space on his right and the centre took the pass to score under the poles.

Mqulo added the conversion and from 13-17 down, Queen’s led for the first time (20-17) in a match in which neither side managed to establish a clear superiority.

An indication of this came seven minutes later when Grey reclaimed the lead after their forwards put Queen’s under immense pressure with a series of mauls in the home team’s 22.

That resulted in flank Cody Wilmot crossing for a try, which was converted by Meyer Prinsloo to make it 24-20 to the visitors.

But Queen’s was not done. They forced their way back deep into Grey’s territory. Then, from a scrum on the 22, scrumhalf Ayola Somhlahlo put in an accurate cross-kick which eluded the defenders and wing Ayathanda Mtyando was on hand to dot down for the match-winning try.

There were still five minutes left and although Grey fought hard to get back in front, Queen’s held on to celebrate their first win over the Gqeberha team since 2014.

In the first half, Grey, who led 14-7 at the break, crossed for two tries by hardworking loose forward David Melariri, while Queen’s wing Ncutu Kepe shot through a gap for their only score of the half.

In Makanda, St Andrew’s College overcame early resistance from Selborne College to seize control of their match in the first half. They led 33-10 at halftime and went on to a comfortable 40-10 victory.

After Selborne opened the scoring with a penalty by fullback Bungqina Nuku, St Andrew’s crossed for an unconverted try before the visitors regained the lead when Zothando Mrara scored from a rolling maul.

Nuku added the conversion to make it 10-5 but that was the end of the scoring for Selborne as the Andreans found their rhythm and were able to slip into their free-flowing style, scoring four more first half tries, which included outstanding individual efforts from Will Stevens and Aphindile Ngcuka.

The second half was a little flat compared to the first, but St Andrew’s crossed for one more try and stood firm in defence to secure a decisive victory.

After a tightly contested first half, which ended at 10-10, Graeme College gradually gained the ascendancy to defeat Hudson Park 27-22 in East London.

As expected on their home turf, Hudson came out firing and it took immense resolve from the Graemians to stay level with them in the first period.

But with Alden Walters slotting two penalties and three conversions, Graeme go their noses in front and built up a handy 27-15 lead before a late try by Hudson narrowed the final margin to five points.

Centre Erin Nelson stood out for Graeme, while No 8 Ayamila Bill and flank Ayola Mali showed their strength up front to lead the Hudson challenge.

In another match that was in the balance at halftime, Ooskus Gymnasium managed to take control of the second period to run out 27-15 winners over Stirling High.

Ooskus opened the scoring when Kwagga Liebenberg put flyhalf Juan Nel into a gap for a try under the posts. Nel, then, slotted a penalty to make it 10-0.

Stirling fought back well before halftime with a try and a penalty to keep themselves in the game.

Ooskus responded well and created a handy cushion when flank Roussouw Nel scored twice, once from a charge-down and the second from a pick-and-go as the forwards drove for the line.

Stirling reacted with their second try, but Ooskus was solid in defence and dominated most of the contest to maintain their lead, with Liebenberg scoring their fourth try.

Kingswood College captured a sensational last-minute win in their clash with Port Rex, narrowly getting home 20-17 after leading 10-3 at the break.

With the East London side leading 17-15, Kingswood was able to feed the ball to their big wing, James Mackenzie, and he crossed for his second try of the match to snatch a hard-fought win.

SCORERS

Queen’s College 25 (7) – Tries: Ncutu Kepe, Splash Magwebu, Ayathando Mtyando. Penalties: Mqulo (2). Conversions: Mqulo (2). Grey High School 24 (14) – Tries: David Melariri (2), Cody Wilmot. Penalty: Meyer Prinsloo. Conversions: Prinsloo (3).

St Andrew’s College 40 (33) – Tries: Amo Habi (2), Luca Nigrini, Will Stevens, Aphindile Ngcuka, Asante Chivere. Conversions: Stevens (5). Selborne College 10 (10) – Try: Zothanda Mrara. Penalty: Bungqina Nuku. Conversion: Nuku.

Graeme College 27 (10) – Tries: Inathi Planga, Lidwala Maliti, Elgin Fanton. Penalties: Alden Walters (2). Conversions: Walters (3). Hudson Park High 22 (10) – Tries: Ukhona Khama (2), Likho Gidi. Penalty: Landile Gidi. Conversions: Landile Gidi (2).

Ooskus Gym 27 (10) – Tries: Juan Nel, Roussouw Nel (2), Kwagga Liebenberg. Penalty: Nel. Conversions: Nel (2). Stirling High 15 (8) – not available.

Kingswood College 20 (10) – Tries: James Mackenzie (2), Matthew Paxton. Penalty: James McMahon. Conversion: James McMahon. Port Rex 17 (3) – Tries: Ethan Schoeman, Mivuyo Kongela. Penalty: Ndimphiwe Songqwaba. Conversion: Songqwaba (2).

Blitz Nico Malan wing Reagan Stone collected a brace of tries to help his team register their second win in a row over their Nxuba rivals Marlow Agricultural, in Humansdorp, on Saturday.

The home team led 14-0 at the break and, although Marlow got on the board through a penalty try, the result was never seriously in doubt as Nico Malan, led by impressive No 8 Pietman Kleinhans, powered over for two more tries to win 26-7.

Both sides were guilty of errors, but this particularly stymied the efforts of Marlow, whose attacking moves were often stunted by those mistakes.

It was a day of celebration for Nico Malan, who added the victory to their 31-27 win of 2024 after previously suffering six defeats in a row against the Wolramme.

Marlow started strongly and was quick to move into Nico Malan’s 22, earning a penalty and a lineout five metres from the line.

But, in a scenario which became all too familiar during the match, they knocked on at the lineout and Nico Malan were able to run their way out of trouble.

With flyhalf Leighton Lawrence dictating matters for Nico Malan with his astute tactical kicking, the Humansdorp side opened the scoring from a five-metre lineout.

Hooker Janu Janse van Rensburg got on the end of a pass to drive his way over the line, with Lawrence adding the conversion.

In the 22^nd minute, Nico Malan flank Neil Lategan broke through for a tremendous run deep into the Marlow 22. After the hosts recycled the ball, an excited Stone called for possession and simply outpaced the cover defence for a brilliant try, also converted by Lawrence.

Marlow narrowed the gap to seven points after the break when Izak Steyn initiated a move from a scrum near the halfway line.

His great run down the blindside saw him offload to scrumhalf Gian Steyl, and he threw an inside pass, but an early tackle by Nico Malan saw the referee having no hesitation in awarding a penalty try.

However, despite coming under pressure at scrum-time, Nico Malan took a grip on the match, and they were not about to relinquish it.

In the 42^nd minute, a handling error gave the home team a scrum on Marlow’s 22 and Kleinhans broke brilliantly to the right for Stone to again outstrip the defence for another memorable score.

That pair was again involved in a move as Stone cut through the defence and Kleinhans took the ball up to near the Marlow line.

From a tap penalty five metres out, burly prop Waldo Krige fought his way over the line to score under the poles, ensuring that the bragging rights remained with Nico Malan.

In other matches, Brandwag faced spirited opposition from Westering, but eventually took control of the contest to cruise to a 53-24 triumph, while Pearson was pushed all the way by Muir College before prevailing 21-14.

SCORERS

Nico Malan 26 (14) – Tries: Janu Janse van Rensburg, Reagan Stone (2), Waldo Krige. Conversions: Leighton Lawrence (3). Marlow 7 (0) – Tries: penalty try.

A trio of high-profile cross-border clashes will light up the schools’ programme in the Eastern Province and Border regions on Saturday as old rivals prepare to square off against each other.

A massive clash looms at the Recreation Ground in Komani where Grey High will attempt to become only the second Eastern Cape side to get the better of Queen’s College this season after Pearson‘s win against Queen’s at the Graeme College Festival.

Since then, Queen’s has lost only to Cape Town team, Rondebosch Boys’ High, and coaches Clinton Loest and Tyrone Rankin have built up a sense of continuity in their team which has obvious advantages.

For the third match in a row they have named an unchanged side under the captaincy of flank Jeffrey Niland and the understanding they have created within the squad could be a big factor in meeting Grey’s challenge.

Grey, themselves, have put together a good record so far, losing only to Paul Roos and Wynberg Boys’ High in their Western Cape derbies.

With the Craven Week trials out of the way, they can now return their focus to what has become the most formidable test in Eastern Cape rugby this season.

Coach Matt King is well aware of what lies ahead: “This weekend is, perhaps, the biggest challenge we have faced since playing Paul Roos away earlier in the season,” he said.

“We are playing arguably the best team in the Eastern Cape on their home ground. The Rec is such a fortress and the Queen’s boys are so proud of their school. It’s going to be an extremely challenging afternoon for us.”

King has called on his players to play with greater precision than they did in their previous encounter against Wynberg, when they lost 27-32 in Gqeberha.

“We will need to overcome the electricity which will envelop the stadium and execute our game plan more accurately than we did in our defeat against Wynberg,” he said.

In the other two anticipated showdowns, Graeme College travels to East London to face Hudson Park, while St Andrew’s College will be seeking redemption on the Lower Field in Makhanda when they host Selborne College.

The Graemians have shown impressive form since losing to Hilton College in the Standard Bank Grey High Rugby Festival, racking up five wins in a row before bending the knee to St Andrew’s.

However, Hudson Park loom as a formidable test for the visitors, particularly on their home turf where they will be fired up to repeat their victory of 2023.

Graeme coach Jonty van der Meulen is still looking for better consistency across the board from his team.

“We are definitely still searching for that consistency across different facets of play,” he said. “We need to improve on those areas that didn’t go well against St Andrew’s.”

Players such as Ayola Mali, Aya Bill, Luke Doyle, and Erin Nelson have been in good form for Graeme and they will need to be at their best on Saturday to combat the bustling play of Hudson No 8 Bubbles Mtshini and the Gidi brothers, Landile and Likho.

The clash in Makhanda is shaping up to be a cracking affair with St Andrew’s eager to regain their winning touch after losing their unbeaten record to Queen’s last weekend (17-38).

In an earlier game this season, Selborne went down to Queen’s by a similar margin (22-40) and that suggests that there is little to choose between the sides for Saturday’s encounter.

Since the loss to Queen’s, Selborne has got their season back on track with hard-earned wins over Port Rex and Dale College in recent weeks, matches in which they showed the sort of character and toughness they will need when tackling St Andrew’s on Lower Field.

TEAMS

Queen’s College vs Grey High at Rec Ground, Komani, 14:30

Queen’s College: 15 Mveli Mqolo, 14 Ayathanda Mtyando, 13 Thina Fenako, 12 Splash 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 Bullz Manqina, 1 Amyoli Ngxongwana

Grey High: 15 Meyer Prinsloo, 14 Noah Mbizi, 13 Bradley Myburgh, 12 Ciaran Killian, 11 Akhumzi Masoka, 10 Tristan Kemp, 9 Ray-Dylan Wilkinson, 8 Sibonelo Stuurman, 7 David Melariri, 6 Cody Wilmot, 5 Joandre van Jaarsveld, 4 Riley Higgs, 3 Ross Atkinson, 2 Evan Mucka, 1 Daniel Naude.

Hudson Park v Graeme College, Hudson Park (East London), 13.40

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

Graeme College: 15 Inathi Planga, 14 Elgin Fanton, 13 Erin Nelson, 12 Torres Fourie, 11 Masi Maboza,
10 Alden Walters, 9 Luke Doyle, 8 Ayamila Bill, 7 Ayola Mali, 6 Lwandle Dlamini, 5 Andrew Muir, 4  Akho Tonjeni, 3 Athi Bonga, 2 Lebo Mahasele, 1 Bagcine Njengele.

St Andrew’s College v Selborne College, St Andrew’s Lower Field, 14.30

St Andrew’s College: 15 Will Stevens, 14 Asante Chivere, 13 Alastair de Kock, 12 Aphindile Ngcuka, 11 Qhawe Madikizela, 10 Myles Sansom, 9 David Chorley, 8 Joshua van Zyl, 7 Luca Nigrini, 6 Coel Trollip, 5 Matthew Harvey, 4 William Beamish, 3 Sivatho Mjali, 2 Adam Nurse, 1 Amo Habi.

Selborne College: 15 Bungqina Nuku, 14 Linamandla Ndamase, 13 Njongo Mbanga, 12 Aaron James, 11 Chad Weimann, 10 Oliver Schmidt, 9 Aaron Senekal, 8 Travis Enslin, 7 Connor Maree, 6 Lwandle Bacela, 5 Luca Liebenberg, 4 Matthew Bean, 3 Zothando Mrara, 2 Luke Bowman, 1 Robert John-Osunkwo (captain).

The hosts, Nico Malan, are gearing up for a massive onslaught across the board when they tackle the dangerous Marlow Landbou in what is set to be a fascinating King Price Derby Series showdown in Humansdorp, on Saturday, at 15.30.

Both sides have scored some notable victories this season, and it appears there is little to choose between them as they aim for the bragging rights in a match that is always competitive.

Under coach Jaco Nepgen and captain Pietman Kleinhans, the home side is fresh off a hard- earned win over Pearson, but they will know they have to show intensity of the highest order to handle the Wolramme challenge.

“There is always a huge amount of respect between the two schools, and we know that Marlow has developed a lethal combination of physicality and skill,” the Nico Malan mentor said.

“They have always been a physical team, but they have brought a new dimension to their game with skilful backs who can attack from coast to coast.

“There is so much pride and passion in their ranks that we know we will have to lift our intensity for the full duration of the 70 minutes.”

Nico Malan are also no slouches when it comes to toughness and skills, and they will take heart from the sort of performance they put in when beating Glenwood 41-39 at the Absa Wildeklawer Festival.

It was a display which epitomised their attacking talent as well as their defensive systems, and they will need more of the same against Marlow.

The Wolramme have a good record against their Humansdorp rivals, even away from home, but coach Derik Olivier acknowledged that they are in for a serious battle.

“Nico Malan is very strong this year, with several provincial players in their ranks,” he pointed out.

“Their play in the tight phases is outstanding, and they always play at pace and with great commitment.

“We know we will have to match them physically, but we are up for the challenge because the pressure will be on them, playing on their home ground.”

Marlow has compiled an impressive record this season, and although there have been three defeats, those have all been by narrow margins – Selborne (22-26), Brandwag (31-36) and Glenwood (9-8).

They also drew 25-25 with St Andrew’s College, while they produced one of their best performances at the Wildeklawer Festival when they beat Welkom Gimnasium 25-22.

With both sides bristling with talent and no shortage of commitment in either camp, it promises to be an afternoon to remember in Humansdorp.

The teams: 

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

Marlow Landbou: 15 Du Preez Vermaak, 14 Logan van Vuuren,  13 Dawid-Malan de Ridder, 12 Ockert du Preez, 11 WJ Pienaar, 10 Cole Hurter, 9 Gian Steyl, 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. Replacements: 16 Wikus van der Merwe, 17 Izak Steyn, 18 Sinqobili Siyengo, 19 Ruan van Deventer, 20 AC du Toit, 21 Jurgens van Staden, 22 Pierre Marais.

Kick Off: 15:30

Other matches in the Eastern Cape: 

13:15 – Muir College vs Pearson; 13:30 – Kingswood College vs Port Rex THS; 13:40 – Die Brandwag (Uitenhage) vs Westering; 13:40 – Hudson Park vs Graeme College; 13:45 – Cambridge vs Dale College; 14:30 – Queen’s College vs Grey High School; 14:30 – St Andrew’s College vs Selborne College.

An unbeaten St Andrew’s College outfit will be attempting to do what only two other sides have achieved this season, and that is to lower the colours of the Queen’s first team in Makhanda on Saturday.

In a match which represents the longstanding tradition of Eastern Cape schoolboy rugby, the teams will square up on the Lower Field at St Andrew’s, starting at 14:30.

It has all the ingredients of a thrilling battle between two of the region’s most prominent teams, both of whom have strung together a string of impressive results this year.

Queen’s, under the captaincy of flank Jeffrey Niland, are fresh from a morale-boosting win over Dale College in Qonce, an encounter which tested their character to the full.

They eventually took control of the match in the second half, and a try in the closing minutes saw them secure a 21-13 victory.

That followed a 40-22 win over Selborne last month, making them potential kings of the Border region this season, while their only defeats have come against Pearson (20-17 at the Graeme Festival) and Rondebosch (33-0 at the KES Festival). They drew 13-13 with St Stithians at the Grey Festival.

There have also been some close finishes, but each time the Queenians have found a way to get the job done, and they will need all that resilience to subdue the St Andrew’s challenge on Lower.

The Makhanda team are missing six regulars due to the Meyer Sauerman EP trials this weekend, but their proud record in 2025 means they will be fighting every inch of the way for another victory.

One of the highlights for St Andrew’s this year came in a thrilling 34-31 win over long-standing Cape Town rivals Bishops, while they were pushed all the way in a clash with Michaelhouse, the teams eventually drawing 22-22.

Last week, St Andrew’s showed outstanding commitment on defence to hold the dangerous Graeme College side at bay for a 17-10 win, and they will need more of the same against Queen’s game-breakers such as centre Thina Fenako, pacy wing Ayathanda Mtyanda and fullback Mveli Mqolo.

If they can do that, with the home fans at their backs, St Andrew’s have the attacking nous to seriously challenge for victory in a clash which is sure to go down to the wire.

The teams: 

St Andrew’s College: 15 David Chorley, 14 ⁠Asante Chivere, 13 ⁠Ali de Kock, 12 ⁠Aphindile Ngcuka, 11 Jack More, 10 Myles Sansom, 9 Connor Malan, 8 ⁠James Badenhorst, 7 Kyle Schwecheiemmer, 6 ⁠Coel Trollip, 5 ⁠Matthew Harvey, 4 ⁠William Beamish, 3 Jake Jackson, 2 ⁠Adam Nurse, 1 Amo Habi.

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 Acwenga Saul, 6 Jeffrey Niland (captain), 5 Sambesiwe Vetman, 4 Zeacke Mata, 3 Ahlume Gqetywa, 2 Bullz Manqina, 1 Amyoli Ngxongwana. Replacements: 17 Ntsika Boya, 18 Lihlumile Njokweni, 19 Ukhona
Klaas, 20 Kaunda Billie, 21, Sivuyile Mnyimba, 22 Akhona Mzamo, 23 Boikaho Motlohi, 24
Bongolwethu Nyakaza

Kick-Off: 14:30

Following another defeat last weekend, Dale College will be desperate to find the winning formula when they clash with Border arch-rivals Selborne College in a King Price Derby Series fixture in East London on Saturday at 15:30.

Although they have displayed fighting qualities in abundance, the 2025 season has not been kind to the Dalians, and they have just two victories in 11 matches to show for their efforts so far.

Last week they went down to Queen’s after staying in the game until the closing stages when a late try gave the Komani visitors a 21-13 victory.

Now, coach Royden Kennedy and captain Kamva Sithole will be urging their players to keep their heads high as they face another of their long-time Border rivals in what should be an epic showdown on Selborne’s A field.

If Dale can match their tough opponents up front, the halfback pair of Onika Boniwe and Sonwabise Dyani have their ability to ignite their backs to create some pressure for the home side.

Selborne, meanwhile, despite a number of difficult fixtures this season, will be aiming to build on the momentum after a hard-earned 27-16 win over Port Rex last weekend.

Coach Allan Miles acknowledged the pressure they came under against what he called a well- drilled Port Rex side, and that experience should stand them in good stead for the Dalian challenge.

Even with Port Rex throwing everything at them, Selborne were still able to cross for four tries (Liam Hansen, Chad Weiman, Samora Bushet and Njongo Mbanga) to secure a hard-earned victory.

The Selborne mentor will also remind his charges of the sort of form they are capable of producing by referring to last month’s match against Pearson.

The East London outfit produced one of their best displays of the season to subdue the rising challenge of the Gqeberha team, taking control up front to win 40-13.

If big Selborne prop and captain Robert John-Osunkwo and his forwards can emulate that effort, they could starve Dale of the quality possession they need to register what would arguably be an upset win over the home side.

The teams:

Dale College: 15 Phikolomzi Mtyalela, 14 Achumile George, 13 Milani Madide, 12 Nxande Ngcaba, 11 Yamkela Molose, 10 Sonwabise Dyani, 9 Onika Boniwe, 8 Kamva Sithole (captain), 7 Liyabona Mayikana, 6 Owethu Siswana, 5 Kungawo Jaca, 4 Ebenezer Sarpong, 3 Phawu Ludwaba, 2 Lakhanya Mbewu, 1 Azole Sodlaka. Replacements: 16 Okuhle Fihla, 17 Sanele Bistoli, 18 Lubulele Ngqozela, 19 Qhawe Mtati, 20 Liyabona Mqingwana, 21 Wethumtha Malawana, 22 Inga Mafanga, 23 Luthando Madikane.

Selborne College: 15 Bungqina Nuku, 14 Samora Bushet, 13 Njongo Mbanga (vice-captain), 12 Aaron James, 11 Chad Weimann, 10 Oliver Schmidt, 9 Aaron Senekal, 8 Connor Maree, 7 Dominic Stegmann, 6 Lwandle Bacela, 5 Luca Liebenberg, 4 Matthew Beän, 3 Zothando Mrara, 2 Luke Bowman, 1 Robert John-Osunkwo (captain). Replacements: 16 Samuel van de Venter, 17 Luthango Ngese, 18 Seth Smith, 19 Travis Enslin, 20 Uviwe Jikwana, 21 Samuel Jacobsen, 22 Iviwe Kabale, 23 Linamandla Ndamase.

Kick-Off: 15:30

Queen’s College dominated territory in the second half of their King Price Derby Series clash against Dale College, in Qonce, on Saturday, to win another furiously contested Eastern Cape battle 21-13.

Despite conceding a try after the break, Queen’s dictated much of the action in the second period as they spent the majority of the time in the home team’s half.

They eventually put the result beyond doubt when a series of forward drives saw big prop Amyoli Ngxongwana force his way over.  Fullback Mveli Mqolo added the conversion and the final whistle went soon afterwards.

Despite suffering another defeat, Dale need not feel disappointed for they fought all the way, despite the pressure they came under in the second half.

They opened the scoring with a penalty from flyhalf Sonwabise Dyani and stayed in the match until the closing stages.

After conceding a try when Queen’s centre Splash Mgwebu burst through in the 13^th minute, Dyani made it a one-point game at the break with his second penalty seven minutes later.

Dale was then cruelly punished shortly after the restart when an attack deep into the Queen’s half resulted in flying wing Ayathanda Mtyando, arguably the fastest player in the Komani outfit, pulling off an interception and racing 70 metres to score under the poles.

Ncutu Kepe made it 14-6 with the conversion and Queen’s looked to be taking control.

However, the Dalians’ fighting spirit was epitomized in the 42^nd minute when they broke down the left side and hooker Lakhanya Mbewu received the final pass to beat the cover defence over 20 metres for an outstanding try.

Dyani’s conversion closed the gap to one point, but the Dalians were seldom able to spend any length of time in the Queen’s half after that.

Instead, their defensive qualities were constantly put to the test as the Queen’s forwards pounded away at the line. While they stood up well, it seemed inevitable that the dam wall would finally break, and it was Queen’s College who claimed the bragging rights.

In Kariega, Brandwag and Kingswood fought out a fiery battle, which saw the home side receiving a yellow card and Kingswood a red card for foul play in the 27^th minute.

The match was in the balance until the closing minutes when, with Kingswood trailing 7-12 and on the attack, a loose ball was kicked ahead by Angelo Adams and wing Dwayne Louw latched onto it to outsprint the defence in a thrilling 60-metre run to secure a 19-7 win for Brandwag.

Centre Wendell Uithaler was outstanding for Brandwag and showed his running ability by sidestepping the defence for their first try in the 12^th minute.

Adams added the conversion and both sides had more chances to score but could not capitalise on them in the first half.

Three minutes after the restart Kingswood knocked the ball on and Rezanio Petrus claimed possession to speed through a gap before unloading to Uithaler for his second try.

Kingswood often looked threatening but failed to finish off their moves until the powerful James Mackenzie took a final pass from a backline move to speed over for their only try of the match.

In Gqeberha, Framesby took control of their match from the start, scoring a try in the fourth minute en route to a resounding 48-21 win over their East London opponents, Hudson Park.

They ran in four tries in each half, often finding gaps in the Hudson defence, which they cleverly exploited.

Hudson must be commended for staying in the fight and they were rewarded with two further tries in the second half after trailing 7-22 at the break.

SCORERS

Queen’s College 21 (14) – Tries: Splash Magwebu, Ayathanda Mtyanda, Amyoli Ngxongwana. Conversions: Ncutu Kepe (2), Mveli Mqolo. Dale Collehge 13 (6) – Tries: Lakhanya Mbewu. Penalties: Sonwabise Dyani. Conversions: Dyani (2).

Brandwag 19 (7) – Tries: Wendell Uithaler (2), Dwayne Louw. Conversions: Angelo Adams (2). Kingswood College 7 (0) – Try: James Mackenzie. Conversion: Praise Matsila.

Wynberg Boys’ High held on for yet another victory over their Eastern Cape rivals, Grey High, in a pulsating finish to their King Price Derby Series encounter at the Kolisi Field, in Gqeberha, on Saturday.

The Cape Town outfit must take full credit for their 32-27 win, after managing the game well in the second half when they played into the teeth of the strong westerly wind, which was blowing down the field.

While Grey crossed for three tries after the break, Wynberg was able to get over the whitewash twice to hold onto the lead they had built up by halftime (20-7).

Those tries earned them a 10-point advantage (32-22) with just minutes remaining, but they had to withstand a desperate late surge by Grey, in which fullback Meyer Prinsloo was prominent.

As time began to run out, Prinsloo started an attacking move which resulted in prop Daniel Naude crossing for a try to make it 32-27 with a minute remaining.

Receiving the ball after the kick-off, Prinsloo made another scything run down the left touchline, but this time Wynberg was able to snuff out the danger by tackling him into touch. They secured the lineout ball and kicked it out to register a memorable win.

Inside centre Yaqeen Ahmed was the standout backline player for Wynberg, capitalising on a solid display up front by the forwards, led by burly prop Luqobo Makwedini.

Ahmed struck two penalties in the first 11 minutes and then put over a brilliant touchline conversion after a long period of pressure saw right-wing Albert Lourens go over in the righthand corner.

As Wynberg continued to apply pressure, using the wind to their advantage, they were awarded a penalty try, which gave them a comfortable cushion at the break. At that stage, Grey was also down to 13 men because of two yellow cards.

In the first half, the home scored through prop Ross Atkinson, with his try converted by Prinsloo.

When they turned, Grey worked their way back into the game through a penalty by Ray-Dylan Wilkinson and then Naude’s first try, converted by Prinsloo, to close the gap to three points.

Wynberg, though, was often able to find a way through and tries by captain Jaythen Orange and wing Chad Campbell cancelled out further Grey scores by centre Bradley Myburgh and Naude.

It eventually allowed the Capetonians to secure a narrow, but well-merited win, extending their unbeaten run against Grey to six years, with two more years lost to Covid-19.

In Makhanda, St Andrew’s College delivered a powerful defensive effort after trailing 3-10 in the first half to defeat their city rivals Graeme College 17-10 on Graeme’s Somerset Field.

Despite conceding an early penalty, slotted by Will Stevens, Graeme controlled most of the first 20 minutes and used their territorial advantage to run in two unconverted tries by lock Akho Ntonjeni.

The visitors then fought their way back into the match and, by retaining possession for longer periods, they were able to send Sivatho Mjali over for a converted try, which made it 10-10 at the break.

The second half was extremely tense, but St Andrew’s took a crucial lead with a well-worked try after Oli Johns put through a perfect grubber for Ali de Kock to score. Stevens added the conversion.

The remainder of the game was played in typical derby day fashion, with players from both teams throwing everything at each other.

The Graeme backline often looked dangerous, but St Andrew’s was well-organised and committed in defence, and that team effort saw them hold on for victory.

SCORERS

Wynberg 32 (20) – Tries: Albert Lourens, penalty try, Jaythen Orange, Chad Campbell. Penalties: Yaqeen Ahmed (2). Conversions: Ahmed (2); Grey High 27 (7) – Tries: Ross Atkinson, Daniel Naude (2), Bradley Myburgh. Penalty: Ray-Dylan Wilkinson. Conversions: Meyer Prinsloo (2).

St Andrew’s 17 (10) – Tries: Sivatho Mjali, Ali de Kock. Penalty: Will Stevens. Conversions: Stevens (2). Graeme 10 (10) – Tries: Akho Tonjeni (2).

Grey High School will be aiming to use the occasion of their Founder’s Day to halt a run of defeats against Wynberg Boys’ High when they clash in a much-anticipated showdown on the Kolisi Field in Gqeberha on Saturday, at 15:30.

This encounter is part of the King Price Derby Series.

Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools!

The home side has not beaten Wynberg since a high-scoring 40-30 win in Cape Town in 2017, but, in fairness to them, since then there have been two draws and two years were lost to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Nonetheless, they know that they will be up against a fiercely competitive Cape outfit who will be fully motivated to rain on the Grey Reunion parade by continuing their recent impressive record.

Grey head coach Matt King acknowledged that Reunion Week at the school is always something special. “There is so much going on and the levels of excitement are palpable,” he said. “The team is especially excited as this group seems to really enjoy the challenge of playing against fiercely competitive teams, like Wynberg.”

While they’re playing at home, King knows that it is not necessarily a simple advantage. “It’s definitely a two-edged sword,” he explained. “The guys recognise that the Grey community expects them to put in a proud performance and so that comes with a lot of responsibility.

“On the other hand, it is comforting knowing that 90 percent of those in attendance on Saturday will be behind us.

“Our message to the boys is to embrace the feelings of excitement and anxiety, breathe, and try to enjoy the moment.”

Under co-captains, wing Luc de Villiers and hooker Evan Mucka, Grey has stitched together a decent run this year, with just a loss to the formidable Paul Roos Gimnasium and a draw with Michaelhouse to counter their four victories.

With vice-captain and flank David Melariri an energetic force up front, and fullback Meyer Prinsoo a constant threat, they will be focused on raising their game to the next level.

“The general feeling is that this team has not yet lived up to its potential,” King said. “While we have only lost one game, we would like to put together more complete performances in the games to follow.

“We believe we are improving every week and hope to see more of that improvement this weekend.”

Wynberg has enjoyed a solid season, winning five of their seven matches thus far, and the visitors are also excited about the annual derby.

“It’s special that 650 of our boys get to travel out of the province to compete across a variety of sporting and cultural codes,” Director of Rugby, Nick Groom said.

“They will create lasting memories both on and off the field, and they always look forward to the Grey weekend.

“It doesn’t feel like an away fixture because we have hundreds of high school and junior school boys, as well as parents and old boys, supporting on the sidelines.”

Wynberg knows that Grey boasts a number of threats in their team and they’ll be seeking a disciplined effort to overcome the “blue” surge.

“We will need to be cohesive with and without the ball, and will have to play well as a team, executing our roles selflessly,” Groom said.

The teams:

Grey High School: 15 Meyer Prinsloo, 14 Ahumzi Masoka, 13 Bradley Myburgh, 12 Noah Mbizi, 11 Luc de Villiers (co-captain), 10 Ray-Dylan Wilkinson, 9 Ryan Swarbrick, 8 Sibonelo Sturrman, 7 David Melariri (vice-captain), 6 Cody Wilmot, 5 Joandre van Jaarsveld, 4 Riley Higgs, 3 Ross Atkinson, 2 Evan Mucka (co-captain), 1 Daniel Naude.

Wynberg Boys’ High: 15 Daniel Ould, 14 Chad Campbell, 13 Kunene Gadu, 12 Yaqeen Ahmed, 11 Albert Lourens, 10 Achmat Berhardien, 9 Morné Noble, 8 Alvin Machinja, 7 Tjeripo Karuhumba, 6 Jamie Stride, 5 James Orwin, 4 Jaythen Orange (captain), 3 Luqobo Makwedini, 2 Noah Gila, 1 Luke Miller.

Results since 2015

2015: Grey 32-20 Wynberg
2016: Grey 24-7 Wynberg
2017: Grey 40-30 Wynberg
2018: Wynberg 36-33 Grey
2019: Wynberg 27-27 Grey
2022: Wynberg 18-16 Grey
2023: Wynberg 37-5 Grey
2024: Wynberg 10-10 Grey

Graeme College will be fired up to overturn some recent narrow losses to St Andrew’s College when the first major Makhanda derby of the year takes place at the Somerset Field on Saturday, starting at 15:30.

Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools!

The home team was on the end of agonising losses in their last two encounters with St Andrew’s, losing 23-24 in 2023 and 15-17 last year.

Those results were preceded by a Graeme win of 11-5 in 2022, and the impressive run of results of both Eastern Cape teams this season suggests their classic clash could again go down to the wire.

Both coaches, Jonty van der Meulen (Graeme) and Jonny Mallett, have spoken about the massive respect the schools have for each other and, while the competition will be fierce, the match has all the ingredients for an exhilarating showdown.

Graeme has compiled an impressive record in their eight matches this year, losing only to Hilton College at the Standard Bank Grey High Festival. They’re currently on a four-match winning streak.

For Van der Meulen, though, his team still lacks consistency and he will be looking for a more polished all-round display on Saturday.

“We have been really good in certain areas in some matches, but then in the next match those areas aren’t as good, and the areas that were poor seem to improve,” he said. “So, we are looking for more complete performances going forward.

“There is always something special about playing opposition from the same town and both schools have good respect for each other, but are also desperate to put their strongest foot forward on the day.”

With flank Ayola Mali one of their standout players up front, Graeme will also have hard-running backs, centre Erin Nelson and fullback Lucritia Magau, to pile the pressure on the St Andrew’s defence.

The Andreans know they will have to be on point in all aspects of the game if they are to preserve their unbeaten 2025 record, which has brought them seven wins and two draws so far.

They are fresh off a tour of Zimbabwe and that will have prepared them thoroughly for Saturday’s Somerset Field challenge.

Mallett knows Graeme will be desperate to get back on the winning trail and said it would be tough going into their opponents’ backyard.

“At least we don’t have to travel,” he said, “but the Somerset Field has become a bit of a fortress for them and this is always a massive derby.

“There have been some wonderful matches over many years and we know Graeme will be chomping at the bit, so we are geared up for a tough challenge.”

With players such as Matthew Harvey and Aphindile Ngcuka leading from the front, the St Andrew’s mentor said his side’s focus would be on playing as a team.

“Everyone knows what job they have to do and if we can stick to that, we will be able to play the type of rugby that suits our style,” he said.

TEAMS

Graeme College: 15 Lucritia Magau, 14 Masi Maboza, 13 Erin Nelson, 12 Inathi Planga, 11 Elgin Fanton, 10 Alden Waters, 9 Luke Doyle, 8 Ayamila Bill, 7 Ayola Mali, 6 Lwandle Dlamini, 5 Mikhulu Yolani, 4 Akho Tonjeni, 3 Athi Bonga, 2 Lebo Mahasele, 1 Bagcine Njengele.

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