Blog

Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool (Affies) and Hoërskool Garsfontein are set to lock horns in an all-Pretoria final to the 2025 Pullen and Howell Girls’ Hockey Tournament on Saturday.

Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools

Affies earned their place in the final after a hard-fought and narrow 1-0 victory over a spirited St Andrew’s School for Girls side in the semifinals.

The decisive moment was delivered by Marise Ras, who found the back of the net with a composed finish to seal the win for the Pretoria school.

St Andrew’s extended Affies, pressing hard to break through their defences, but Affies held their shape, kept their discipline, and emerged with a clean sheet.

In a clash of traditional rivals, Garsfontein edged out Waterkloof in the other semifinal. Garsies produced a resilient showing to bag a tight 2-1 win and punch their ticket to the title game.

Affies’ head coach, Nicolene Terblanche, while sharing her thoughts ahead of the final, praised her team’s performance and acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead.

“We’ve really enjoyed the tournament,” she said, “and I’m so proud of how my team has played throughout. There’s been good energy and strong teamwork.

“We’re feeling positive going into tomorrow. It’s going to be a good game. Garsfontein is a very strong team and plays good hockey. We know we’ll need to be at our best.”

Saturday’s final will be a battle between two Pretoria powerhouses, who have enjoyed impressive seasons. Both schools have a rich hockey tradition and will be laser-focused on capping off their tournament with silverware. For Affies, who won the All Girls’ Festival in May, it will be an opportunity to claim a second title in 2025.

One of the key features of the title decider will be the clash of the defensive solidity of Affies and the attacking enterprise of Garsfontein. Contrasting strengths make for fascinating contests and when it’s for all the marbles that’s an enticing bonus.

Daar sal vanjaar ‘n nuwe kampioen van die SDC Noordvaal Cup Groep 2 gekroon word.

Die verdedigende kampioen, Overkruin van Pretoria, kon nie vanjaar daarin slaag om tot die uitspeelrondes deur te dring nie. Die naaswenner, Bergsig Akademie, het vanjaar in Groep 1 in die Bowl-afdeling deelgeneem.

Die Puma-kampioen, Hoërskool Hoogenhout, sal vir sy eerste uitspeelwedstryd na Alberton reis om teen die Hoërskool Alberton te staan te kom.

Die Allies het die reeks as die Valke se vierde gekeurde span deurgedring. Hoogenhout het in die Puma-eindstryd vir Lydenburg met 34-24 die loef afgesteek.

Die span van Alberton het ook tot dusver ‘n goeie seisoen beleef en het vroeër vanjaar ‘n vyfde plek in die NWU 16-reeks verdien.

Wagpos van Brits sal in sy uitspeelwedstryd teen die Limpopo-naaswenner, Hans Strijdom, te staan kom. Die span van Brits het verlede week in die uitspeelwedstryd om die derde en vierde posisie in die Blou Bul-liga vir Pretoria-Noord met 45-25 kaf gedraf.

Hans Strijdom het in die Limpopo-eindstryd naelskraaps met 23-27 teen Ben Viljoen vasgeval. Die Hansies het vroeër vanjaar die titel as kampioen van die NWU 16-reeks ingepalm.

Die span se flank Janneman Benson, binnesenter Hendriko van der Kolf asook die heelagter, Tebogo Mapologelo, kan die tuisspan probleme besorg.

Die Blou Bulle se kampioenspan, Hoërskool Centurion, kom op sy tuisveld teen Frikkie Meyer van Thabazimbi te staan. Die Woeries het vir Midstream College met 26-21 in die eindstryd onttroon.

Die Valke se naaswenner, Dr. Malan van Meyerton, sal in sy uitspeelwedstryd teen Wonderboom van Pretoria wat beloof om ‘n titaniese stryd te wees, te staan kom. Dokkies het in die Valke-eindstryd naelskraaps met Brandwag van Benoni met 11-13 die knie gebuig.

Wonderboom se Tiere het Die Wilgers met 46-40 in ‘n opwindende kragmeting verlede week geklop om te bepaal wie die Bulle se vyfde en sesde kwalifiseerder vir die Noordvaal-reeks sal wees.

Die spanne is: 

Hoërskool Alberton vs Hoogenhout om 11:30 in Alberton: 

Hoërskool Alberton: 15 Mbuso Zuma, 14 Jarron Geldenhuys, 13 Kgosi Matsena, 12 Ewan Muller, 11 Vian Nieuwoudt, 10 Dewald de Jager, 9 Jaydon Mostert, 8 Jay C Nienaber, 7 Luke Joubert, 6 Juan Crous, 5 Herman du Preez, 4 Ruan van Wyk, 3 Jayden Graaff, 2 Reuben van der Westhuizen, 1 Ivan Venter.

Hoogenhout: 15 Lesedi Moselane, 14 Sizwe Madonsela, 13 Sonwabo Simelane, 12 Pieter Viljoen, 11 Ryan Nel, 10 Siyabonga Shabangu, 9 Kegan Berry, 8 Thabang Mphore, 7 Stian Naudé, 6 FJ Maritz, 5 Dandré Els, 4 Eythan Martin, 3 Bertie Botha, 2 Pieter van Zyl, 1 Ikhona Masango.

Wagpos vs Hans Strijdom om 11:10 in Brits: 

Wagpos: 15 JG Olckers, 14 Franco Dippenaar, 13 Ivan du Preez, 12 Heinrich Wiehahn, 11 Dylan Joubert, 10 Myburgh Henning, 9 Arrie Joubert, 8 Hendrik de Jager, 7 David van Breda, 6 Wian Botha, 5 Matt Killian, 4 Anthony Bezuidenhout, 3 Killian Kirchner, 2 Adriaan Venter, 1 MG Hattingh.

Hans Strijdom: 15 Tebogo Mapologelo, 14 Keano van der Walt, 13 Francois Koen, 12 Hendriko van der Kolf, 11 Louis Joubert, 10 Jayden Enslin, 9 Mario Opperman, 8 Heigers Ferreira, 7 Janneman Benson, 6 Paul de Beer, 5 Ewandré Jonker, 4 Deon Otto, 3 Wessel Strooh, 2 Leander Janse van Rensburg, 1 Willie Vermaak.

Centurion vs Frikkie Meyer om 11:30 in Centurion: 

Centurion: 15 Donnell Farmer, 14 Dylan Schoeman, 13 Moeketse Legodi, 12 Kyle Fourie, 11 Ge-Raldo Danster, 10 Bernick Fourie, 9 Stefan Vorster, 8 Darius Durie, 7 CJ Niemandt, 6 Malan le Roux, 5 Ulrich van Wyk, 4 Ruben Pretorius, 3 Coenraad du Toit, 2 Robbie Herholdt, 1 Lincoln Hattingh.

Frikkie Meyer: 15 Barnabas Nyamakupe, 14 Poppie Mphela, 13 Prince Sekoboane, 12 Mare Pieterse, 11 HW du Plessis, 10 Leon Deysel, 9 MJ Kloppers, 8 Darren Pretorius, 7 Wian Pretorius, 6 Stefan Mulder, 5 Herman Prinsloo, 4 Kgosi Leteane, 3 Johnny Barnard, 2 Ruben Venter, 1 Lourens Pieterse.

Dr. Malan vs Wonderboom om 11:20 in Meyerton: 

Dr. Malan: 15 Shawn van Wyk, 14 Kallie Goosen, 13 Ambrogio van der Westhuizen, 12 Reinhardt Groenewald, 11 Enrico Janse van Rensburg, 10 Estian van der Westhuizen, 9 Dewald Erasmus, 8 Dillon Gouws, 7 Lex Grimsdel, 6 Jordan Bouwer, 5 Duvan Bornman, 4 Enrico van Zyl, 3 Shano Kukard, 2 Bernard Benson, 1 Ruben la Grange.

Wonderboom: 15 Iwan van Rooyen, 14 Nathan Roesch, 13 Carlo Schmahl, 12 Navan Jansen, 11 Christiaan Swanepoel, 10 Kyle dos Santos-Joubert, 9 Barend Bossert, 8 Ryan Otto, 7 Nathan Wilke, 6 Jancu Nel, 5 Nolan Lourens, 4 Darius van Loggerenberg, 3 Branden Freemantle, 2 Dian Dreyer, 1 Ethan Cotton.

Ander uitspeelwedstryde: 

Eerstes | 15:00 – Hartbeespoort vs Lydenburg; 10:15 – Die Wilgers vs Ben Viljoen; 11:15 – Brandwag (Benoni) vs Pretoria-Noord.

o.16 | 10:00 – Dr. Malan vs Hoërskool Tuine; 10:00 – Wagpos vs Ben Viljoen; 10:15 – Centurion vs Hans Strijdom;

o.15 | 09:00 – Dr. Malan vs Midstream College; 09:00 – Wagpos vs HTS Witbank; 09:00 – Centurion vs HTS Tom Naudé; 09:00 – Die Wilgers vs Ellisras;

o.14 | 08:00 – Dr. Malan vs HTS John Vorster; 08:00 – Wagpos vs Frikkie Meyer; 09:00 – Leeuwenhof Akademie vs Centurion; 10:00 – Hoërskool Alberton vs Die Wilgers;

The Paarl Derby, part of the King Price Derby Series, kicks off at 16:00 this Saturday at the Faure Street Stadium, where more than 25 000 spectators will take their seats.

Paarl Gimnasium, ranked South Africa’s top school side in 2025 so far, will look to extend their unbeaten run to 18 matches. Their rivals, Paarl Boys’ High, beaten only once this season, aim to upset the hosts after last year’s 8-30 loss.

Historically, the derby has been fiercely contested, with eight of the last nine clashes decided by five points or fewer.

“The process in getting the team ready for Saturday’s clash has started at the beginning of the season. We try to keep our routine the same as the one we used throughout the season. Also, to keep the emotion in place during the week, as there will be enough of that on Saturday. The focus of the team will be to play for each other and fulfill their individual roles,” said Pieter Rossouw, head of rugby of Paarl Gimnasium.

Gim captain Markus Muller, compared to a young Danie Gerber, leads a potent backline supported by SA Schools’ eighthman Quintin Potgieter. Boishaai counters with powerhouse prop Jordan Jooste and elusive fullback Mark Grindlay. With talent across the park and intense local pride, the stage is set for another classic battle in one of South Africa’s most iconic schoolboy rugby rivalries.

“It is Interschools in Paarl. The town is even prettier this week than usual. Blue and Green all over the place, of course, a bit bluer,” said Sean Erasmus, head coach of Boishaai.

This year’s interschools clash will be the 106^th between these two powerhouses. Gim has been on the winning side 52 times, Boishaai coming out on top 42 times with 11 encounters ending in a draw.

“The highlight for me is naturally the game on Saturday. But it is also the build-up throughout the week between the three schools. The involvement of the parents, old boys and the town which makes this Interschools a very special occasion,” said Rossouw.

This weekend will also host a special 100^th clash between Jeppe High School for Boys’ and King Edward VII’s Red Army at Collard Field in Johannesburg.

Jeppe won the earlier clash in the season by 37-28 but the Red Army has been marching on in the latter part of the season as they recorded victories over Rondebosch Boys’ High (20-17), Noordheuwel (23-22), Helpmekaar (23-21) and Pretoria Boys’ High (24-23).

KES has won 63 times since the first interschools back in 1935. Six matches ended in a draw, while Jeppe bagged 30 victories.

Grey College of Bloemfontein will travel down to Gqeberha to face their namesake, Grey High School, in their annual encounter. The team from Bloemfontein will arrive in the Eastern Cape as favourites for this King Price Derby Series encounter, but it is never easy on Kolisi Field.

In Pretoria the Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool of Pretoria will look to continue their dominance against Waterkloof in their King Price Derby Series clash. Klofies’ last success against Affies was back in 2017.

Klofies will also travel to Affies with their talisman and eighthman, Marco Kok, ruled out with injury. The clash between him and Stefan McDonald was to be one of the highlights.

Affies’ SA Schools halfback pairing of Zirk Meyer and Ruben Groenewald (captain) will be the dangermen for their side.

As daar een les is wat spanne uit die onlangse geskiedenis van die SDC Noordvaal Cup Groep 2 kan neem, is dit die feit dat geen span vanuit die Blou Bulle-streek afgeskryf kan word nie.

Verlede jaar het die Bulle se vyfde kwalifiseerder, die Hoërskool Overkruin, met die kroon weggestap na hy vir Bergsig Akademie van Rustenburg met 28-27 in die eindstryd verslaan het.

Verlede jaar was daar slegs vyf kwalifiseerders van die Blou Bulle in die uitspeelrondes in aksie. Vanjaar het daar ‘n totaal van sewe tot die uitspeelrondes deurgedring.

Dit sluit wel spanne vanuit die Luiperds-streek in wat vanjaar deel van die Ligbloues se liga was. Die sewe spanne vanuit dié liga wat vanjaar hul staal in die uitspeelrondes sal wys is Hoërskool Centurion, Midstream College, Wagpos, Pretoria-Noord, Wonderboom, Die Wilgers en Hartbeespoort.

Die tweemalige kampioen van Groep 2, Midstream College, sal vanjaar weer ‘n sterk aanspraakmaker op die titel wees. Die span onder breierskap van Henry Verster en Christiaan van der Merwe het in 2022 en 2023 die gesogte trofee omhoog gehou.

Vanjaar sal Midstream College teen die Hoërskool Sasolburg in die eerste ronde van die kompetisie te staan kom. Sasolburg spog self met ‘n gedugte span en betree die reeks as die Valke se derde kwalifiseerde.

Sasolburg se senterpaar, Khaya Radebe (kaptein) en Sphiwe Mngomezulu, se tweestryd met hul direkte teenstanders, Yanko Cronjé en Paul Loubser, behoort vir vele hoogtepunte in die kragmeting te sorg.

Die Hoërskool Hartbeespoort, wat die Blou Bulle se sewende kwalifiseerder is, sal in sy eerste uitspeelwedstryd Vrydag op sy tuisveld teen Hoërskool Lydenburg te staan kom. Harties het sy plek in die uitspeelrondes met ‘n klinkende sege van 31-12 oor Hoërskool Tuine van Pretoria bespreek.

Lydenburg is die Pumas se naaswenner na hy verlede week in die eindstryd met 14-34 teen Hoogenhout van Bethal die knie gebuig het.

Die Valke se kampioen, Brandwag van Benoni, sal graag vanjaar verder wil vorder as die afgelope paar jaar. Die span sal Saterdag op sy tuisveld gasheer vir Pretoria-Noord speel.

Brandwag het die Valke-kroon gedra deur vir Dr. Malan van Meyerton naelskraaps met 13-11 in die eindstryd te troef. Die groep van Brandwag het boonop die Noordvaal-kroon as o.16’s (2023) en o.15’s (2022) gedra.

Die Wilgers van Pretoria het verlede jaar nog in Groep 3 spanne die skrik op die lyf gejaag. Vanjaar kry die span ‘n vuurdoop in sy uitspeelwedstryd teen Ben Viljoen van Groblersdal.

Ben Viljoen is die Limpopo-kampioen na hy vir Hans Strijdom van Mookgophong met 27-23 in die eindstryd getroef het.

Die spanne is: 

Brandwag (Benoni) vs Pretoria-Noord om 11:15 in Benoni: 

Brandwag: 15 Zander Gower, 14 Johndré Pienaar, 13 Tristan Fletcher, 12 Dirk Jansen, 11 Jaden van Staden, 10 Logan van der Bank, 9 Jason Coetzer, 8 Hanré Heydenrych, 7 Wikus Rossouw, 6 Ruben Croucamp, 5 Jayden Diedericks, 4 Ronaldo Becker, 3 Div Fourie, 2 Damian Minnaar, 1 Wian Riekert (kaptein).

Pretoria-Noord: 15 Junior Bokwa, 14 Jaco Janse van Vuuren, 13 MC Swanepoel, 12 Henco van der Merwe, 11 Brandon du Plessis, 10 Anthony Smith, 9 Cayden Botha, 8 Ettiene du Bruyn, 7 Jordan Booyens, 6 Tristan Tintinger, 5 Malan Bezuidenhoudt, 4 Juwan Schwann, 3 Dehan Joubert, 2 Duncan Paulsen, 1 Dewan Janse van Rensburg.

Hartbeespoort vs Lydenburg om 15:00 in Hartsbeespoort: 

Hartbeespoort: 15 Theo Mothoagae, 14 Reitumetse Ntile, 13 Zanrich Botha, 12 Divan Koen, 11 Kgosi Matshana, 10 Anikwe Zuma, 9 Jadon Meyer, 8 Wiehann Venter, 7 Kyle Moss, 6 Nathan Le Roux, 5 Luken Rheeder, 4 Pieter Mulder, 3 Driaan Du Plessis, 2 Luke Hammond, 1 Reabetswe Ramarumo.

Lydenburg: 15 Thipi Mohlala, 14 Alu Mpungose, 13 Pogisho Mohlala, 12 Alan Vos, 11 Joshua Weber, 10 Clyde Taaibosch, 9 Ian Taylor, 8 Lythen Duvenhage, 7 Jordan Harker, 6 FJ Terblanche, 5 Jaiden Venter, 4 Arinus le Roux, 3 AJ van Deventer, 2 Seabi Ramodike, 1 Ntsako Maleka.

Die Wilgers vs Ben Viljoen om 10:15 in Pretoria: 

Die Wilgers: 15 Nico Klein, 14 Christo le Grange, 13 Kealen Cloete, 12 Leo Owen, 11 Luke Morgan, 10 Mitchell Obi (captain), 9 Hanro Brits, 8 Milan Maree, 7 Johno Mollet, 6 Zander Bothma, 5 Matthew Valentine, 4 Caleb Klein, 3 JP Olivier, 2 Adriaan Jacobs, 1 Aidon Moolman.

Ben Viljoen: 15 Refentse Mashaba, 14 Nathan Boucher, 13 Zeagan Groenewald, 12 Chris Jordaan, 11 Leeroy Alexander, 10 Rome Pietersen, 9 Joe Cloete, 8 Tiaan Scheepers, 7 Jac-Johan Gouws, 6 Wian Ferreira, 5 Jaco Botha, 4 Jacobus Lewies, 3 Eben Oosthuizen, 2 Hugo Lourens, 1 Andrew Blake.

Hoërskool Sasolburg vs Midstream College om 11:00 in Sasolburg: 

Hoërskool Sasolburg: 15 Andile Mlenga, 14 Musa Ntuli, 13 Khaya Radebe (kaptein), 12 Sphiwe Mngomezulu, 11 Themba Mbele, 10 Jan-Hendrik Espach, 9 Liam Singleton, 8 Walter Manana, 7 Luan Roodman, 6 Hlompo Mahabane, 5 Janco van der Merwe, 4 Tyron Roux, 3 Xavier Kleingeld, 2 TJ van Lelyveld, 1 Kamo Ndweni.

Midstream College: 15 Ryan Strauss, 14 Jean Holtzhausen, 13 Yanko Cronjé, 12 Paul Loubser, 11 Estiaan Scheepers, 10 Dian de Villiers, 9 Thomas Pretorius, 8 Louis Verhoef, 7 Nicholas Grobler, 6 Henke Griffioen, 5 Martin van Rooyen, 4 Nathan Judlesohn, 3 Hanno Britz, 2 Jared Nel, 1 Robin Stassen.

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.

Oakdale Landbou hosts Paul Roos Gimnasium (PRG) at 13:20 on “De Eike” this Saturday in a battle of two of the 2025 season’s heavyweights.

The Farmers have enjoyed an incredible season, which has included inflicting the only loss of the season on Paarl Boys’ High.

Last year, Oakdale didn’t face the all-conquering Paul Roos side, but, when they last met in July 2023, in Stellenbosch, PRG won 27-15.

The Farmers have grown significantly since then. Their set-piece this season has been awesome, with SA Schools’ loosehead Kai Pratt anchoring the scrum, SA Schools A monster lock Diaan Augustyn in the second row, and SA Schools’ 8th-man Jacobus de Villiers at the back of the pack.

Last week, in their 31-7 victory over HTS Drostdy, all five of their tries were scored within two phases of a set-piece.

Meanwhile the Maroon Machine started term three on fire, powering their way to a 48-12 win over Rondebosch last Saturday.

Once again, they’re one of the country’s leading teams, and Paul Roos, potentially, has a good counter to Oakdale’s strong lineout in the form of SA Schools’ hooker, Altus Rabe. Loose forwards’ Luke Kent and Gert Kemp add an extra layer of oomph to the Stellenbosch attack, running hard lines like centres.

Speaking of running lines, wing Jordan Steenkamp scored a hat-trick last week, while fullback Keenan Stoffels crossed for a brace. With such speedsters at their disposal, the Oakdale forwards cannot give afford to give Ou Polla’s Boys too much space or possession.

Boland Landbou, meanwhile, travels to Stellenberg for a 12:50 fixture. The hosts head into the clash off the back of an 8-14 loss against Outeniqua in a match which could have gone either way. They’ll certainly be looking to get back to winning ways.

Boland Landbou defeated Bishops 40-19 last Saturday, so will be chasing back-to-back wins.

The last time the sides met in April 2024, Boland won 25-19 on Perdeberg-A Field.

The Jade Brigade will lean on SA Schools A flyhalf, Ethan van Biljon, to dictate play with his excellent distribution and to score points with his powerful and accurate boot.

The home side is not afraid to boot the ball down field and chase. However, before their backs can look to take advantage of their flyhalf’s powers, they’ll need to secure possession through the forwards.

The Farmers also have a star halfback in SA Schools’ scrumhalf, Jayden Brits. Like Van Biljon, he scores plenty of points off the kicking tee and he’s an excellent creator with his clever passing and kicking.

The visitors have often leaked penalties and cards under pressure this season. That’s something they’ll need to avoid if they are to challenge Stellenberg. Van Biljon’s boot is one of the most accurate to be found anywhere.

Teams:

Oakdale Landbou vs Paul Roos Gimnasium at 13:20 on “De Eike-Veld” in Riversdal.

Oakdale: 15 Reinhardt Viljoen, 14 Myburgh Eksteen, 13 Anrich Scheffer, 12 Christian Vorster, 11 Lee-Winn Pretorius, 10 CT Vosloo, 9 Jandrian Goosen, 8 Jacobus de Villiers, 7 Liam Lightley, 6 Jannes Snyman (Captain), 5 Rico Ferreira, 4 Diaan Augustyn, 3 Francois le Roux, 2 Adrian Smith, 1 Kai Pratt.

Paul Roos: 15 Keenan Stoffels, 14 Divan Lamprecht, 13 Tiaan Basson, 12 Ian Smith, 11 Jordan Steenkamp, 10 Travis Pheiffer, 9 Jan-Jan Nel, 8 Gert Kamp, 7 Luke Kent, 6 Caleb Koeberg, 5 Manus van Leeuwen, 4 Truspe Schoeman, 3 Gerrit van Vuuren, 2 Altus Rabe, 1 Zak Hickman.

Stellenberg High School vs Boland Landbou at 12:50 in Belville, Cape Town.

Stellenberg: 15 Eben Rademan, 14 Daniel Mongie, 13 Luka Tonitz, 12 Armand Potgieter, 11 Christian Arendse, 10 Ethan van Biljon, 9 Daniel Steffen, 8 Yanos Molnar, 7 Ryan Jones, 6 Regardt Rademeyer, 5 Leon Vermaak, 4 Juvan Burden, 3 Janu can Deventer, 2 Liam Joubert, 1 Christian Janse van Rensburg (Captain).

Boland Landbou: 15 Jadon Ocks, 14 Kobus Jordaan, 13 Jason Ocks, 12 Blake de Kock, 11 Aleit Stander, 10 Pieter Bergh (Captain), 9 Jayden Brits, 8 Jacques Retief, 7 Kody Nell, 6 Juan Visage, 5 Jeandrè le Roux, 4 Stephan Griesel, 3 Derico Messina, 2 Wikus Coetzee, 1 Diwan Grobbelaar.

King Edward VII School (KES) visits Jeppe High School for Boys in Johannesburg on Saturday for a blockbuster King Price Derby Series clash in which the already high stakes have been turned up even higher, with their showdown being the 100th meeting between the schools’ 1st XVs.

Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools

They first played in 1935 and the historic record favours KES, who built up a big advantage during the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. However, in recent years, it’s been more a case of tit-for-tat, with the last 10 matches being split evenly – five wins each.

Earlier this season, it was Jeppe who triumphed, winning 35-28 away from home. They’ll be boosted by the friendly confines of Collard Field on Saturday, but playing at home is not a guarantee of victory. Last season, KES won 38-28 at Jeppe, but Jeppe returned the favour, winning 23-13 at KES.

Both teams made spluttering starts to the 2025 season, but both have, undoubtedly, taken major steps forwards in the latter part of their campaigns.

Jeppe’s record sits at an even eight wins and eight defeats, but they’ve played one of the tougher schedules in the country, including facing Durban High School (DHS), Affies, Oakdale, Northwood, Noordheuwel, Grey College, Rondebosch, and Garsfontein. Those are all upper tier teams, and it was only against Northwood that Jeppe came away with a win.

KES has a record of seven wins and seven losses, also 50/50. They’ll be boosted by their most recent outing, against Pretoria Boys High, a team that had beaten the Red Army earlier in the year. In their second meeting, KES staged a late fightback to claim a come-from-behind 24-23 win, the kind of victory that builds belief and strengthens bonds.

KES features a Golden Lions‘ Craven Week duo in their loose trio, captain Sam Bruwer and 8th-man Chinedu Amadi, a powerful ball carrier who will ask lots of questions of Jeppe’s defenders around the fringes of the rucks and mauls.

Jeppe will, meanwhile, be very happy to welcome back two of their stars who were missing from the 10-24 loss to DHS last Saturday.

SA Schools A front-ranker André Poulton will bring his power game to bear, while in the midfield the dangerous Lindelani Nkambule, who ran out for the Golden Lions at the FNB Craven Week, adds his shifty moves and speed to Jeppe’s arsenal.

There’ll be an interesting battle within the war between Jeppe captain and scrumhalf Talent Sithole, who was also included in the Golden Lions’ side, and Regan McGurk, who represented the Golden Lions’ Academy team but was a member of the Craven Week side in 2024. He would like nothing more than to make a statement by bossing his battle with Sithole.

It won’t, though, be about the stars making plays. They may have their place, but it’s going to be about a 15-man or even a 23-man effort, plus the impact of the support, that will carry one of the rivals to a meaningful win.

As is so often the case with big matches, playing the game and not the occasion is going to be crucial. The team that is better able to focus on the task in front of them will have an advantage. It won’t be easy on such a momentous occasion, but cool heads and accurate execution will go a long way towards securing victory.

It’s going to be a cold day on the Highveld, but the action alongside and on the field is going to be hot.

Teams:

Jeppe High School for Boys vs King Edward VII School on Collard Field in Johannesburg at 14:00

Jeppe High School for Boys: 15 Dalitso Milanzi, 14 Ndimphiwe Mjiji, 13 Lindelani Nkambule, 12 Phano Letsie, 11 Lethabo Mashao, 10 Nehemia Holenbach, 9 Talent Sithole, 8 Mihle Dyakala, 7 Grady Ngui, 6 Kuhle Shitlangu, 5 Glodi Tshipamba, 4 Lagan Leisher, 3 Andre Poulton, 2 Ayanda Funeka, 1 Joshua Hamman.

King Edward VII School: 15 Indibabele Mboniswa, 14 Jarell Mbuyi, 13 Sky Segal, 12 Sam Smith, 11 Junior Shivuri, 10 Andrew Jackson, 9 Regan McGurk, 8 Chinedu Amadi, 7 Sam Bruwer (c), 6 Nkosen’hle Mafu, 5 Ashton Vreugdenburg, 4 Michael Bownes, 3 Kenneth Prins, 2 Tristan Randall, 1 Siya Nkomo.

Die Hoërskool Menlopark moet ál drie sy oorblywende ligawedstryde so ver moontlik wen om nog ‘n wiskundige kans te staan om die SDC Noordvaal Cup se Beker-halfeindronde te haal.

Volg al die SDC Noordvaal Beker-aksie regstreeks op SuperSport Schools – (www.supersportschools.com) 

Die Parkies skop hul finale aanslag Saterdagmiddag tuis af teen ‘n gekweste Hoërskool Monument.

Indien die Parkies die nodige driekuns in die laaste rondes van die kompetisie kan vermag, moet hulle steeds hoop dat Hoërskool Transvalia en Hoërskool Dr EG Jansen se teenstanders oor die volgende paar weke hulle ook ‘n reuse guns bewys.

Daar bestaan boonop ook nog die gevaar dat Hoërskool Waterkloof ‘n haas uit die hoed kan ruk deur altwee sy oorblywende wedstryde elk met ‘n bonuspunt te wen, wat sake verder sal bemoeilik.

Dus is Menlopark se kragmeting met die Wit Bulle van Krugersdorp Saterdag van kardinale belang.

Die Parkies draf sonder hul kaptein en generaal van die agterhoede, Andru Keun, op die veld, maar Keun is wel op die plaasvervangerbank en kan straks vroeër as later sy verskyning maak. Willie Pieterse, ‘n bekwame plaasvervanger, neem Keun se verantwoordelikhede as losskakel in die beginspan op.

Goeie nuus is dat die voorryman, Mattheus Prinsloo, na ‘n lang afwesigheid sy terugkeer maak, wat ‘n taamlike tweestryd met die Wit Bulle se Juandré Marais behoort af te gee. Marais keer ook terug na ‘n lang besering wat hy in die Krugersdorp-derby teen Hoërskool Noordheuwel opgedoen het.

Agterlangs skuif Juandré Ehlers na buitesenter, met Cameron Kourie aan sy binnekant. Ehlers se tweestryd met Leskin Samuels sal sorg vir aanskoulike, fisieke rugby in die middeveld.

In Johannesburg maak Hoërskool Rustenburg se spelskepper, Lorenzo Snyers, en buitesenter, Jon-ré Jefthas, hul langverwagte terugkeer na die beginspan. Die Rusties gaan inderdaad ál die skietgoed tot hul beskikking benodig vir ‘n titansie stryd met Helpmekaar Kollege in Johannesburg.

Die Helpies se afrigtingspan het besluit om geen veranderinge aan die span, wat die vorige week vir Hoërskool Transvalia met 36-10 kafgedraf het, te maak nie. ‘n Bonuspuntsege sal die Helpies na 37 ligapunte neem, wat ‘n stewige buffer sal bied en moontlik ‘n tuishalfeind oor drie weke verseker.

Die spanne: 

Menlopark t. Monument om 12:30 in Pretoria

Menlopark: 15 Reinhardt Herbst, 14 Bladen Petersen, 13 Leskin Samuels, 12 Dylan Stumke, 11 Juan Joubert, 10 Willie Pieterse, 9 Gustav Shäffner, 8 JN van Wyk, 7 Nathen du Plessis, 6 Ruan Strydom, 5 Keagen Pretorius, 4 Tiaan Boshoff, 3 Ruvan van Aardt, 2 Declan Pelser, 1 Mattheus Prinsloo.

Monument: 15 Loghan Langeveldt, 14 Ewan van der Walt, 13 Juandré Ehlers, 12 Cameron Kourie, 11 Ruan Genis, 10 Jaydon Viljoen, 9 Evan Bernhardi, 8 Ryno van der Westhuizen, 7 Jordan Swanepoel, 6 Caleb Sparks, 5 Dean Hartman, 4 Vincent Roberts, 3 Juandré Marais, 2 Regardt Ernst, 1 Dexter Chiwanga.

Helpmekaar Kollege t. Hoërskool Rustenburg om in Johannesburg

Helpmekaar: 15 Ty Ax, 14 Zaiden Krige, 13 Clinton Cloete, 12 Ethan Lourens, 11 Michale Herbst, 10 Wian Storm, 9 Shaye Lourens, 8 Llewelyn Vermaak, 7 Eugene de Lange, 6 Jandré Botha, 5 Zian Smith, 4 Diandro Botha, 3 Dylan Engelbrecht, 2 Jeandré van der Merwe, 1 Liam Devenier.

Rustenburg: 15 Lorenzo Snyers, 14 Hendrè Robinson, 13 Jon-Rè Jefthas, 12 Zack Swanepoel, 11 Wade Davey, 10 Ricardo Enos, 9 Adriano George, 8 Pieta Niemandt, 7 Marais Rochè, 6 MJ Otto, 5 Thian Labuschagnè, 4 Tristan Myburgh, 3 Jaden Minnie, 2 Xavier Steenkamp, 1 Xander Stickling.

Friday evenings are usually the domain of Hyundai Friday Nite Lights hockey matches, but on Friday the Northwood and Durban High School (DHS) 1st XVs will clash under lights on Reece-Edwards Field. Kick-off is at 18:30.

Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools

While DHS has enjoyed the advantage in recent meetings, their showdowns with the Knights have been among their most physical and challenging outings.

They met earlier in the season, in late April, on Van Heerden’s Field, and it took a gritty come-from-behind performance for School to score a narrow 22-19 victory over the visitors. Northwood led 12-0 at halftime.

They’ve made it tough on DHS in recent seasons by taking the contest down into the gutter – mauling, hitting the ball up on the fringes, contesting every ball – and that has restricted the Horseflies‘ opportunities.

On Saturday, in Johannesburg, DHS ran in four tries in an impressive 24-10 victory over Jeppe, with three of those four coming from long range, and because Daniel Ikotela and his side moved the ball quickly wide. That’s where the Knights enjoyed success against DHS in their meeting in May, so there could be an interesting mirror image approach to attacking from both outfits on Friday evening.

It all starts up front, however, as any South African rugby fan will tell you, and both sides have rugged, powerful packs. Both went down to Paarl Gim at the Absa Wildeklawer Festival in Kimberley, but both had the Gim pack in reverse on a number of occasions at scrum time. Both packs add up to more than the sum of their parts with their cohesive contestation of the ball.

Last weekend, though, Northwood struggled at lineout time during their patchy 19-11 win over Glenwood. Usually, lineouts are one of the Knights’ strengths, both on their own ball and on the opposition’s throw-in – coach Jacques Deen is an outstanding mentor at the set piece – but did the match reveal something that DHS might target on Friday evening?

When one thinks of game breakers, it’s the midfield of both teams that catches the eye, except, though, that DHS will be without their powerful inside centre, Zingce Simka, a huge try-scoring threat, especially from close range. He’s out of the contest, with Peleneo Shakwane tasked with filling Simka’s big boots.

Outside of him, SA Schools’ centre Nathan Aneke is a thrill waiting to happen with his electric pace and eye for a gap. He’s silky skilled.

On the Northwood side, Bongane Khumalo is usually at the heart of the Northwood’s attacking forays. He’s fast footed, with a sharp sidestep, and also is adept at creating overlaps. Besides him, Tristan Parkinson is more physical and an effective foil to Khumalo’s playmaking.

If it’s playmaking one’s discussing, then Northwood and Sharks’ 8th-man, Jamie Wimble, is a player that has to be part of the conversation. A top all-rounder on the cricket field, he brings those ball skills to his game. He’s a physical defender and a dangerous runner, often breaking the gain-line by running well considered lines.

On the DHS side of things, their captain Daniel Ikotela is an all-out lead-by-example type – not the biggest flank, but a powerful ball carrier and a hard-hitting defender.

One player missing from Northwood’s win over Glenwood was SA Schools A loose forward/lock Lian Terblanche. His return to the Knights’ ranks is a big boost for the home team, and his addition could be what they need to solve their lineout issues.

Friday’s teams are, in many ways, similar. They’ve had some tremendous battles in recent seasons, and, for that reason, a deep respect resides in the players for one another. At the same time, that makes them all the more determined to take the win.

The last time DHS visited Northwood, in 2024, the Knights frustrated the Horseflies and held them to a 7-7 draw. Later in the season, DHS scored a hard-fought 18-11 win.

The last time they met under lights at Northwood was in July 2023, when DHS won 27-5. It’s been nothing but tough sledding for School against the Knights since, and Northwood would like nothing more than to get one over DHS in front of their home supporters.

Teams:

Northwood vs DHS at Reece Edwards Field, Durban, at 18:30 on Friday evening

Northwood 

15 Trevor von Volenstee, 14 Anesu Kuzonyei, 13 Bongane Khumalo, 12 Tristan Parkinson, 11 Aphiwe Maphisa, 10 Savio Stevens, 9 Jed Mun-Gavin, 8 Jamie Wimble, 7 Ayavuya Makula, 6 Omari Mabuza, 5 Chad Howe, 4 Lian Terblanche, 3 Janco Visagie, 2 7 Chulumanco Kholisa, 1 Sphe Ntshangase.

DHS

15 Cilermo Carolus, 14 Amo Mataboge, 13 Nathan Aneke, 12 Peleneo Shakwane, 11 Zenkosi Mthiyane, 10 Jordan van Wyk, 9 Marcwin Nero, 8 Bradley la Grange, 7 Jose Lottering, 6 Daniel Ikotela, 5 Zion Smith, 4 Vimbiso Kasvosve, 3 Omphiwe Kola, 2 Okhule Mbanjwa, 1 Elvino Witbooi.

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.