Affies need to replace AffieGuts with AffieBMT

Affies are gearing up for another thrilling season, with their opening match against Diamantveld in Kimberley on 8 March 2025. On paper, the team looks exceptional. Expectations are high, and with that comes the inevitable pressure on coach Ruan Jacobs and his squad.

The 2024 season was one that could have been. Affies may very well have been the top-ranked school in the country, but three agonisingly close defeats in key test matches ultimately sealed their fate.

For long-time Affies supporters, it’s almost a sense of déjà vu. In their last 14 tight encounters, Die Wilbulle have come out victorious only twice. Karma suggests their fortunes are bound to change. Big Match Temperament is expected to play in their favour, giving them the edge to claim victory. However, while the forwards remain strong and capable, Affies’ main concern might lie in their lack of true flair in the backline. There have been few backs in recent years who have been able to slice through the midfield in the way that Jurie Linde (twice selected for SA Schools) once did. Though the team boasts players with speed and skill, one can’t help but feel that their traditional powerhouse rivals—Grey College, Paarl Boys’ High, Paarl Gymnasium, and Paul Roos—have the upper hand in this department. These schools seem to have a sharper ability to spot and exploit space, whether through raw pace, precise passing, or an overall high rugby IQ.

Diamantveld, under the guidance of coach Vlos Molnar, made a solid start to their campaign with a convincing 25-7 win over hosts Fichardtpark on Saturday, 1 March. While the match fitness will be beneficial, the hosts will have their work cut out for them, as they have a midweek fixture against Upington in the Kalahari-Karoo before facing the highly-rated Affies.

Affies have won their last three encounters against Diamantveld by an average score of 33-5.

Affies track record in tight test matches against powerhouses