Snelvuur, a long-term Paul Roos supporter and valued commenter on our blog offers his opinion on the next test match in SA Schoolboy Rugby:
The upcoming battle between Paul Roos (PRG) and Affies promises to be a classic. Here are five key areas that could shape the outcome:
1. Can PRG’s Front Row Hold Up Against Affies?
PRG’s front row is incredibly mobile—worth noting that their loosehead played eighthman until last year, and Altus Rabe could easily slot in at flank. However, mobility only gets you so far in the tight, and they came under real pressure in the scrums against Garsfontein. Affies will be eyeing dominance here and could target the set piece to gain ascendancy.
2. Can Affies Contain Jordan Steenkamp?
PRG’s left wing has been in electric form this season and must be one of the frontrunners for SA Schools honours. He’s scored in every match so far and is sitting on 14 tries—and counting. He added another brace this past weekend against Bishops, including a stunning 40-metre finish. Affies will need a plan to shut him down.
3. Will PRG’s Discipline Hold?
Discipline has often been an early-season concern for PRG sides. Last year’s fixture against Affies was marred by poor discipline, and they also battled with penalties at this year’s Noord-Suid tournament. Encouragingly, there were signs of improvement in the Bishops game—but keeping composure under pressure will be crucial.
4. The Tactical Kicking Battle
Affies’ Groenewald has been outstanding with the boot this year, especially in controlling territory. But PRG bring a different challenge—they kick a lot from the base, especially contestables from the 9, with their big wings applying intense pressure. This tactic played a major role in their win over Noordheuwel. They also pose a major threat from deep: two tries against Bishops came from counter-attacks, with Stoffels and Steenkamp particularly lethal. Groenewald and company will need to be clinical with their placement and chase lines.
5. The Affies Maul… and PRG’s Response
Affies’ maul has long been a weapon—and nearly undid PRG last year. To stop it, you either compete in the air or halt it early on the ground (legally). PRG may back themselves in the air this time. Kemp has been excellent at contesting lineouts this season, and with multiple strong jumpers in the squad, they could disrupt Affies’ maul before it gets going—especially since Affies don’t have the towering locks of previous years.
Really looking forward to seeing if this PRG side has the grit and structure to rise to the occasion. This one could be a thriller.
@beet (Comment #1)
If he plays, it will be interesting to see how this PRG team plays with a proper fetcher. Last year they often played Kemp at 6, Norton at 7 and Kruger at 8 (i.e., three giants). This year, they’ve played 196cm, 105kg Dylan van Wyk at 6, 189cm, 100kg Luke Kent at 7 and Gert Kemp (also in excess of 190cm) at 8 – i.e., three giants. It was interesting when Le Roux came on vs Bishops that Van Wyk actually moved to lock and Van Leeuwen (the real giant – 204cm and 115kgs) was substituted. I suspect that’s the way they’ll line up once Le Roux’s fully fit too.
Dankie Snelvuur. Sien uit na die een.
Very very excited to watch how Christiaan le Roux goes against this formidable Affies backrow now. Affies 6 Lohan Potgieter is top brace. And Stefan McDonald vs Gert Kemp is going to be special. Just a pity about Albert Smit’s injury ruling him out for the season.