Saturday 06 May 2023 looks set to mark the symbolic end of a schoolboy rugby passage of domination for Glenwood when they travel to Goldstones, their happiest hunting ground away from home since 2011.
Glenwood have not lost at Maritzburg College since 2010.
College are at long last favourites to end the streak in 2023.
It may mark a turning point in the interschools 1st XV relationship with College starting to win regularly again.
The Red, Black, White have an outstanding tight five – Phiwayinkosi Kubheka, Elbie Mouton, Aiden Botha, Jake Jansen and Kuhle Mthimkhulu. All five first choice players would not be out of place in a KZN Sharks Craven Week team. The pack are able to exercise a good measure of control. It’s making life a lot easier for their backs. Of the backs, the eye-catcher is running fullback Luyanda Kunene who has shown his X on numerous occasions.
Glenwood returns from Wildeklawer in Kimberley in better form. They had however lost two domestic matches on the trot before that. No one is really sure where the hold-up is. Yes there have been disruptions with key players missing for one reason or another. On paper they look decent enough but they have days on which they just do not gel or show the right levels of commitment on defence.
Even though Glenwood has a respectable tight five, they don’t have that same “engine-room” branding that College has this season. Loose-forward Kane Plasket-Burne produced his best form of the season to date at Wildeklawer. A few exciting Green Machine backs line-up light things up as individuals but don’t do it enough times as part of team driven moves. Wing Mnelisi Gamede starred in Kimberley, reminding everyone how good he can be. Centre/wing Chijindu Okonta was the standout of the early season and could not stop scoring tries. Fullback Jaco Williams has been identified SA Schools candidate.
Hilton versus DHS is potentially the KZN championship decider.
Hilton edged out Michaelhouse and stayed true to their tag of being the best organised defence in the province. They are gutsy and so disciplined. They have attacking talent in their ranks as well. Centre RD Engelbrecht is one of the players who can make things happen with his ability to stay on his feet through contact.
DHS potentially offer more threats than Michaelhouse. For one an even better scrum. Two key ball-carriers in prop Simphiwe Ngobese and flank Siseko Mani who thrive in running into heavy traffic. Its a good day at the office for Ngobese isn’t being double-teamed by defenders. However lineouts have been a challenge for DHS and Hilton used the lineout setpiece to get the points to beat House.
The DHS backs are where the big opportunity for an away win lies. HTS Drostdy had conceded an average of 19 points per game over five games prior to the DHS match where they were opened up to the tune of 64-points by high tempo rugby. On his day Horsefly’s flyhalf Deano Boesak is one of the best players in the country. His run-kick-pass ability is of such a high standard. Outside him are some flashy backs, none more so than Hopewell Ntshangase at fullback.
This match may also determine which KZN school goes unbeaten in the domestic regular season of 2023.
Don’t underestimate Kearsney at home against Michaelhouse
Form and on paper suggests Michaelhouse and this particular fixture on Stott does tend to go the way of the favourites.
Kearsney are a decent team though. They generally stay in the battle. The four matches they have lost in 2023 is at an aggregate point difference of 14, or an average of 2.5 points per game. The One-stripes challenge is they just lack X-factor. If they had just had a player with Robbie Koenig’s ability again, that could have transformed their season. Michaelhouse should be their most difficult opponents of the season to date. So for the home team, they need to capitalise on opportunities especially red zone finishing.
House won’t have the same tight five ascendancy as they enjoyed against Hilton but their backrow which includes the very impressive SA representative of 2022, Dwayne Mlaba (#8) should be able to produce plays that matter. After a quiet time on Meadows, outside centre Campbell Ridl will be keen to step it up.
Westville hosts the Jeppe Boys in what should be a competitive match
Both 1st XV’s returned from The Grey Festival, so understandably the schedule is a bit hectic for Jeppe who are on the road again. They are a good well-rounded team though. A lekker backline starting with assertive scrumhalf Bryce Samuels. Quality in the midfield pairing of Macmillen Mongwana and the exceptional Congolese born Exuacè Kevani, who will surely be on the SA Schools radar if his citizenship permits. At fullback young Khuthadzo Rashivaga is another to keep an eye on. Backs generally don’t get to indulge in the glamour stakes if they do not have quality ball and this Jeppe pack can get it sorted.
Westville just want to avoid those flat spots they seem to have during game. The good news is the two go-to players tend to deliver big -time when there is a game to be won. They go by the names Likhona Finca (12) who is going to end up with a highlights package of note in 2023 and ever reliable Speedy Ramaloko (15). Two Griffins forwards go about their business in very different ways are young Chris Cloete and Ave Tukwayo. Cloete is a proper opensider, a tight player – ball hunter. Already making inroads as an u17, he is going to a special player to watch as a senior in 2024. Ave Tukwayo isn’t even guaranteed a first team place in the Westville setup. This makes him the best fringe player in the whole province. Tukwayo is at his best when the game becomes a bit loose but his determination never seems to fade and he always carries with enthusiasm.
St Charles take on Clifton on Old Orchards
Both schools target this match as a good opportunity to register a “W”. The Saints definitely need it more as they are staring down the barrel of a bad win ratio regular season. They have big forwards who should help them to get over the gain-line. They really just need more from their backs. If the ref is good and Clifton don’t have first choice players available, there is no reason they shouldn’t win this one on the road.
The big news is Clifton’s boarding establishment in the process of being built. This is set to transform their rugby fortunes.
Northwood takes a breather ahead of KZN Sharks trials
Interestingly the Knights are co-coached by Jeremy McLaren who serves as Director of Rugby as well and Jacques Deen. They beat Kearsney 14-10 last weekend to add to their win against Glenwood a few weeks earlier. There really isn’t such a thing as a building season in SBR but it is no secret that Northwood are now way ahead of schedule in developing a good team for 2024. Nine grade-11’s in the run-on team that beat Kearsney with 12 more in their 2nd XV (Brown Socks) who have been equally competitive in the local league this season.
So it is fact that Paarl Gymnasium will be naming a new headmaster shortly and the rumour-mill has it that the possibly favourite candidate is from KwaZulu-Natal. So we what with bated breath to learn the identity of the new head.
@Vleis: jeez the Cape will be overrun by Vaalies soon. Hermanus must be pumping! Langebaan too. Yeah, we need a world class midfielder soon although TAA might just do the trick
@Roger: Yep, probably too late for us – we need a benevolent billionaire owner!
@Vleis: lekker Vleis, the Cape is beautiful. Liverpool are finishing the season strongly but think it will be too late for a top four finish. City have the league sown up after Arsenal got done by Brighton last night! Hopefully Man U can take the FA Cup 😉
@Roger: Yes, I took the plunge last year…and so far so good!
Man U – what kind of rubbish is this!? I’m afraid that I’m with Grassy on this one – YNWA!
@Roger: ah no wonder the tension in the past, I’m a Liverpool supporter, have been since a baby. Through thick & thin….
@Vleis: have you taken the plunge and left Go Green Go Side for the fairest Cape Vleis? I love soccer – and very happy to see Man U possibly finishing top four. My son is a massive Chelsea fan – he’s less happy 😆
@Vleis: nice! My family are originally from Kilmurry co Cork, we’ve done the family history & research, going back to 1770. Horse breeders, but more cart horse. Love the area & the people, avidly Beamish drinkers rather than Guinness. Hope your son had fun. Limerick is affectionately known as ‘stab city’ but yes rugby nuts!
@BoishaaiPa: That’s interesting! My son is based in Dublin now, but he spent his first year after school playing for a rugby club in Limerick. Those Munster folk are absolutely rugby mad and will be going bonkers tonight after beating the old enemy! Being based in CT now, I am also pleased with the Munster victory as it means a home final.
@Vleis: My son worked in Cork from 2019 till June last year. Now a true Munster fan. Played cricket for Cork County and some rugger in his 1st year there..visited him last year..Special people those Irish.
@Roger: Soccer is a great game. My lightie played a lot of soccer in primary school – he only really started playing rugby at u14 and he now plays for Ireland 7s team. Paul Bayvel used to say that the large amount of soccer that he played significantly improved his rugby competence.
@Vleis: glad your son is enjoying Ireland. Which club is he playing for? My boy is not a rugger fan – prefers soccer! You are spot on re: KES and Jeppe. We just had our 120 celebrations – old boys all over the world attended events. Was great to see. The passion for the school is incredibly gratifying. I thought certain colonial traditions like the annual armistice day parade on 11 November or the Pipe band would slowly fall away but they have been embraced and made their own. Nothing like seeing big strapping Zulu and Congolese kids in kilts and khaki marching to a pipe band and remembering old boys who died in service. Both KES and Jeppe are in a very good space and are truly “African” schools – as you say, gives one hope. Long may that continue.
@Grasshopper: re sevens: no worries, I was there last year too. Lekker party.
@Vleis: without hope you have nothing! Hopefully it all comes right in the next 50 years 👍💪 24 to 1
@Kaya 85: Agreed, great facilities, but both of their primary strengths are their old boy and supporter networks. Ironically, the more SA deteriorates, the more said old boys (and supporters) pump support into the schools. To be honest, it gives me hope for our country.
The passion, skill and ferocity that the KES and Jeppe boys display for their their schools brings tears to my eyes. The beauty of it is that some have come from primary schools in Soweto while others have come from posh schools like Pridwin and The Ridge.
@Kaya 85: I still wouldn’t live in Jozi even if you gave me £10 million
@Vleis: agreed …both KES and Jeppe have new buildings, sports facilities, looking in very good shape, both have new Aquatics centres…good management looking after their schools
@Vleis: Nice, it is a very lekker but very expensive to buy in, so we in a village nextdoor. I went to the 7s last year, amazing vibe! I can’t this year as it’s my lighties 8th birthday party! Enjoy!
@Grasshopper: My wife’s aunt and uncle live in Harpenden and thus her cousins grew up there. It’s a very lekker area. I’ll be at the London 7s next weekend. Give me a shout if you are going to attend same.
@Roger: Howzit. How is Oz treating you? Is Roger junior knocking lumps out of the Aussies on the rugger field yet?! Yes, my son is still playing rugby – in Ireland now and loving it.
I agree with your comments re the schools. Indeed, I’m my opinion, both KES and Jeppe are overall (academics, sport, culture, etc) stronger now than at any time in the past 20 or 30 years.
@Roger: Yep, Jeppe seem to be doing OK too, now that area ain’t good. I think these older schools just find a way to survive, adapt or die. It’s actually a great Saffa mentality which makes us successful in other countries…so many Saffas in the upper echelons on my field, media and data analytics
@Vleis: Vleisie, Vleisie – how’s your son doing? Is he still playing rugger?
I recall he was in the Wits Varsity Cup side a few years back?
@Grasshopper – there’s an element of truth to your post re: the schools and areas they are situated but look at KES, St Johns, Jeppe and Roedean – not the most salubrious surroundings yet thriving. It requires top notch leadership, old boy, parent and community support and lots of moola. You can buck the trend or you can become another Highlands North or Athlone. Parktown Boys are fighting very hard – hope they are successful.
@Vleis: hey Vleisie, ah ok didn’t know that. I’m in Harpenden in Hertfordshire where most of the Saracens players live. Vincent Koch, Brad Barrett, Owen Farrell & others are seen walking about. Great local rugby clubs too. Schalk Brits used to live here too.
@Grasshopper: Dodger lives in Oz now, so nowhere near Hillbrow!
Which part of England do you live in?
@Roger: hey Roger Dodger, hope you well & enjoying there in Hillbrow. Your side looks ok this year, congrats to them!
@Bush: great, enjoy it! Point was school related. Glenwood is on the down because of the surrounding areas, economics etc. It’s a valid point. Hilton, House & the privates have the means to maintain standards. I fear within 10 years Glenwood & others like it will be playing B league vs the new age Christian schools. I mean their hockey lost to Reddam!
Jirre – good old Hopper has resurfaced
KES to drill the Duchies from Pretoria this weekend
Love been able to watch KES play on Supersport schools – a very young and fully representative team with a young dynamic coaching team (class of 2012). The flyhalf is one to watch going forward – and only grade 11!! C’mon the Reds.
Jeppe have also been superb this season !
@Bush: Thumbs up
@Grasshopper: No issue Hopper, I think it’s the throwing in of how KuK SA is to all that live here. We all understand the political situation and the crime and the and the and the list goes on. Some of us don’t have the means or enough recourses to leave. So we have to make do with what we have, we live here in S.A we understand what we are faced with. This is our home and we love it here no matter what you think. It would be great to respect that.
Apologies, I forgot the house rules, no politics so please delete my last comment……the world has become too snowflakey…
@ForeverHorseFly: It’s an SA problem yes, 70 murders a day. BUT location does play a part. Maritzburg, Umbilo, Berea are not what they used to be and are dangerous, full stop. In terms of slums, well it’s all relative. If you don’t travel you won’t know, it’s certainly no Monte Carlo, Sardinia, Split or Dubrovnik. I’m coming to Dirtbin in Oct for my wife’s birthday, see a few family and friends, whirlwind, 8 days smash and grab. No chance I want to frequent often, the world is such a big place with millions of historical and beautiful places to visit, why go back there. It’s weird how locals seem to think land beauty is something SA owns. I did a trip to NZ for Christmas to visit my sister, it beats SA hands down. Another amazing place, Switzerland……jeez, now you cooking with gas…Iceland, the list is endless…not sure who AKA is, was he that musician shot mafia style in Florida Rd? Schools can put up boundaries but the surrounding area still decays…thanks ANC….
@Grasshopper: AKA was shot on Florida Road up the road from DPHS which is right by Clifton as well and as unfortunate as all those incidences are, they are part of a bigger crime issue which isnt related to the location of those schools.
My point is that the location of a school is not as much of a factor if the standards of the school remain high.
I frequent the Musgrave area and it is definitely not the slum you are trying to make it out to be.
@Grasshopper: 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@Bush: 2-3-green-machine!
@ForeverHorseFly: Jeepers, I went to Musgrave Centre last year, should have gone in with a bulletproof jacket. No chance my kids will ever wander around there. Then of course my friend Marc Joubert was shot and killed there in 2007. Glenwood, Berea and Durban in general is not a safe place, sorry….
@star: Green Machine 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@Grasshopper: I hardly think you can group DHS with Glenwood when it comes to location. In fact, the location of DHS is very similar to that of DPHS yet DPHS remains strong. DHS had its problems in the past not related to its location and now that the ship has been turned around, the kids are slowly coming back.
@Skywalker: I don’t know the numbers but I think DHS is now slowly getting DPHS learners back…obviously the top sport stars are heavily recruited and still choosing the privates but overall the DPHS kids are slowly coming back.
@Bush: Mr Grindrod was also a wonderful man. He actually employed Ivan not once but twice. He obviously could spot talent
2 3 Hilton
@star: Yes, sorry Star. Hopper referred to Aspen Chairman as Mr Aspen being an DHSOB, I didn’t realise in saying Mr Grindrod it was an actual person😵💫😵💫😵💫I was meaning Mr Clark, whom is a wonderful man.
@Skywalker: Not 100%, I do know if you want to keep your boy at home, Clifton is your private choice, then as a boarder or catching a bus it’s Kearnsey then definite boarder, it’s House and Hilton. I know Pinheiro was trying to keep the connection with Glenwood Prep and DPHS, but not sure I would still choose DHS or Glenwood due to location. I do know DHS has ramped up Blackmore’s to house the EC/Border kids
@Grasshopper: From what I knew a lot of the DPHS boys were nto going to DHS any longer. There was a strong move to Kearsney a few years back, and now because many are top sportsmen they get targeted by MBC, Michaelhouse, Hilton etc. as well. I think with the DHS resurgence more are starting to return back, but its not a primary feeder as it was as far as I know…?
@star: Yes, that is who we were referring to without mentioning names…Two of the best GOBs in my mind are;
1) Gordon Murray – https://www.gordonmurrayautomotive.com/
2) Daryl Lee – Global CEO of McCann Group Worldwide
Doubt either are engaged with the school having left the country.
@Grasshopper: I know there have been 2 previous reports of Mr V leaving. Those didnt transpire, and I hope not as he has done great things. We shall see.
@Grasshopper: Agree!
@Grasshopper: He was CEO seven years ago I think…the current CEO is an Old Boy Andrew Shedlock
@Grasshopper: Mr Grindrod was as Hilton a man as they came.Unfortunately he is now deceased. As my uncle and Chairman of the Board of Governors he made my transition to Hilton very elementary. I think you are referring to Ivan Clark.
@ForeverHorseFly: Absolute Respect-Bayette Inkosi
@ForeverHorseFly: Only reason is I have two friends working for him as medical reps ;-)
@Bush: The new DHS Gym (courtesy of a significant contribution from an Old Boy Grasshopper is not obsessed with bringing up) is named after Mr Pinheiro which shows just how much respect he has from the Old Boys and his leadership of the school.
@Bush: He taught me in 96, never been a fan. He and Kershaw were alike in many ways. DHS needed a decision-maker and hands on, he was correct even if it was his second choice.
@ForeverHorseFly: One of those contributors is my uncle who runs a successful Civil Engineering business in KZN. He contributes a large monthly amount to the DHS Foundation. Didn’t the old KES Headmaster take up a CEO role in that organisation?
@ForeverHorseFly: Absolutely correct, Mr Pinheiro was never my cup of tea. But that man is a machine. He was the correct person for DHS. Whatever he does he does flat out and with purpose and that normally pisses people off. So what, he’s successful and well done to him. 2 3 to Mr Pinheiro
@Grasshopper: All the top schools have successful Old boys, Glenwood being at the top of the KZN rugby food chain all those years took resources that had to come from somewhere.
In as much as the one DHS old boy you always seem to bring up has contributed to the school, DHS resurgence has been down to a concerted effort to engage all the Old Boys. The DHS Foundation has been working hard supporting the school and Mr Pinheiro has been brilliant as Headmaster.
@Grasshopper: Well done on your support. Key to the success is the buy in of the OB’s. Even if the contribution is 50c, 50c is a lot of money. 50c and 50c is $1.00. And that is a ton of Rands.
@Bush: Not sure about those two, Mr Grindrod must be 80 now and has made his contribution. Pelican Systems I know is involved a little. I have actually helped 3x kids through the school and many for things like tour contributions etc. There is just not enough of us doing that. They need to introduce an OB Mentor scheme, OBs in business providing advise to a kid. The OB network isn’t bad but can be better. I would say from my year, 1996, over 80 are in Australia and about 60 in the UK, some spread around the world in Canada, Germany etc. Only a handful left in SA and not in Durban. Unfortunately a few have passed too. We certainly not in the House, Hilton, Kearsney & Clitfon league of wealthy OBs. Our two most successful OBs are overseas…
@Grasshopper: Hmmmm but you do have Mr Grindrod, who is an incredible man. Isn’t Rod Gould ex GW, Pelican Systems? 😬😬😬😬Then you have all the runaways that are earning Dollars and Pounds who could donate, what strength does GW have with its OB’s. Looks like Zero. Have you ever taken the ownership of helping a kid from GW? Maybe that is the key on how Dale, Queens etc have succeeded . Rocket Science and everybody loves an Astronaut
@Skywalker: https://edition.cnn.com/2019/04/24/sport/matt-bouman-south-africa-spt-intl/index.html
An absolute legend!
@Bush: I did miss that, well it certainly isn’t the only case of that in the country. Many many have got through the systems. Obviously in Glenwood’s case it’s been unlucky (or good actually) to have their cases surfaced. Other schools are better at hiding the issues or sweeping them under the carpet. Being seen to weed these issues out is a good thing
@Skywalker: True but I heard the head is leaving, which would be a huge blow. I do think Glenwood have got a good new head with a big challenge, but he needs time to put his stamp on it. Up the Knights, always liked playing against them. Also, always remember the great surfing tussles, DHS, Northwood and Glenwood plus George Campbell. A lasting memory of mine was Matt Bouman in the waterpolo and swimming, jeez that dude was good.
@Bush: Dale and Queens are in the heartland of rural rugby, simples. KES & Jeppe in the biggest city in the country and DHS go fishing in the Eastern Cape plus ensure they get the most of the DPHS boys. It really is not rocket science…it does still take money to fund bursaries and scholarships, we have no Mr Aspen Pharmacy man…
@Grasshopper: 😵💫😵💫😵💫I think you missed that one. The young man was on his way to GW once completing Grade 7. I think it would have been a new age record by the time he got to do Matric. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ST 5.0
@Grasshopper: @Bush yes great to see some strength in all the sports now, especially Rugby. Hockey has always been pretty strong and has remained so, but the cricket now and the rugby of course being competitive overall is great for the school! Reality is they have always had good feeder schools, and it should not have slipped so far off the radar as it did. Some poor leadership, and complacency as other schools surged ahead left parents driving from DBN North to take kids elsewhere. Its been a long road, but in a good place now. Still work to do, but good to see and good for the area. Even though its the closest High School now for the semigration parents, the reality is if it were not doing well parents still wouldnt be sending kids there.
@Grasshopper: Then GW need to engage with Dale and Queens on how they have stayed so successful. I’m sure Helpies, KES, Jeppe could all give GW a helping hand, even DHS 😬😬😬😬.
@Bush: That feeds mostly to DHS
@Slam: Or a 16 year old playing U10 in the Feeder School 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣😪🤣🤣
@star: Exactly, how many kids start Varsity now and drop out in the First year as it’s not what they wanted to do. Or change course and end up wasting money and a few years. Back then we had Post Matric and now you have travel, voetsak and go find yourself
@Slam: Actually two officially, Payi at DHS. PLUS the hundreds swept under the carpet by schools after the age audit, including some of the oldest institutes in KZN….
@Bush: Also, only one team has had a 22 year old wing playing for them…
@Bush: Agreed, not quite 33 years from scratch, considering it was a merger of Northlands and Beachwood, who both had some decent sides. I think they are attracting the Ballito and North Coast semigration families due to proximity and have had good leadership. Quite a few ex Glenwood staff there now too. I think they have overtaken Glenwood as the school with the most depth in all sports. Westville could claim that crown too. As you can see the two above Glenwood are in more affluent areas. I fear for my alma mater, the decay in the area is not a good sign..
@star: Thanks for the support Star ;-). Overreaching as usual, hmmm? At the end of the day, the result remains, no comments or caveats. We lost, finish and klaar. It doesn’t say Herkie Kruger, House post matric of 1998 and ex Grey Bloem OB ran rings around us to win the match for House…
@Bush: I agree 100% with you and that Grassy is overreaching as usual. I did a Post Matric at Hilton in 1982 and completed my Cambridge A levels and 3 Unisa subjects(so much for a disguise). It was a bridging year and the credits came in useful later on.I think only 20% of the post toasties(as Grassy puts it) played rugby. That year was the first time there were black Shell scholars(3) and girls
(2).You are however wrong in saying that the Grey boys were the first time there was an issue. My older brother did a Post Matric at House as far back as 1979 and the Hilton OBs created quite the storm accusing House of buying players which again was over played 
@Bush: not one boy turned 21 in my 5 years there, 92 to 96. Oldest was a guy called Ryan Leslie who was 19. Post matric was abused by schools & we all know that. College had a few too including ex Glenwood player, Rudi de Vry. A DHS loosie & others. All I know is House & Hilton had the most, usually massive forwards…
@Skywalker: Great to see Northwood doing so well, for a young school-33 years. They have always been up there, lovely to see them hitting their straps. Good Primary schools in the area, great Club Rugby. Really an area to consider if you are wanting to immigrate
@Grasshopper: Some truth but also far from the truth. Not sure how it’s cheating??? If it was within the boundaries, it’s legal and fair. Repeating a year doesn’t make you younger. In the early 90’s it was the in thing to repeat matric, Forde from College put a stop to kids doing Matric again, they then just repeated Std 6,7,8 or 9. Many kids doing Post Matric used that year as a bridging year and did do Unisa subject and did get various credits. Not all Post Matric were sportsmen. Maybe excluding that one year when 2 3 recruited about 8 GCB boys and 1 particular Postie ended up playing for the Sharks, Natal scored. GW had many kids repeating years through the 90’s. The farm school I attended we had a man that celebrated his 21st birthday and still played high school sport. GW had quite a few men celebrate that milestone of 21 and still were playing schoolboy sport. Therefore from your statement, GW were cheats. It happened in all schools, it’s a bid unfair for privates to be labelled as cheats as they had played within the boundaries.
Your last comment about the Headmaster position is certainly an intriguing one… Will wait to hear.
@Bush: The practice of repeating matric or plugging to play 1st team longer was common in the 60’s and 70’s for all schools (ask Mike Barker how old he was in matric), started to wane in the 80’s and stopped in the 90’s. Post matrics were boys officially doing a 13th year mainly for sport under the disguise of doing an A level or Unisa course etc. It’s plain cheating, especially if they were under19. Those post toasties of the 90’s were way bigger, faster and powerful than us. Although, I giggled when Barrett Pardey, under16a prop benched for the firsts vs Hilton and came on to devour the postie prop…..brilliant….
@Grasshopper: Hopper, stupid question-what was the difference between a kid doing a Post Matric or a kid repeating Matric or Std 9 on purpose? As I don’t understand your fixation on getting beaten up by Post Matrics and what hang up you have about Post Matrics????
@Vleis: hahaha, that was probably their ‘stayers’ side and doesn’t count in their minds. I just remembered getting pummelled by post matric laden Hilton sides in the 90s, we just took it on the chin. As soon as it was the other way around, all sorts of bleating about being too professional etc.
@Grasshopper: Don’t worry Grassy – the mighty St Alban’s beat Hilton at the ISRF, so Hilton lost only to HJS and St Alban’s last year!
It was the last match of the season!
@Dixon’s: Yep, heard last year, Glenwood were going to upset Hilton on their 150th and the ref spoilt it….
@apple: Hilton have a crew who film their games so there is a reverse angle version of the match on youtube.
The end of the game call at the lineout was a little unusual.
There is no doubt the Hilton lock knocked the ball on when he tried to catch the throw-in. At that point I would have expected the ref to made a gesture of advantage to DHS. He didn’t. He couldn’t play an advantage to Hilton because they had knocked on. Instead he allowed the play to develop and then penalised DHS for offsides. I can only think it must have been an AR assisted call but the evidence suggests DHS were offside as their players not part of the lineout were not 10m back when the lineout took place.
DHS might have a better case for the high tackle and offside advantages handed to HC in the lead up to the lineout. These both looked like wrong calls but like everyone says the visuals for watching were not great. But the backchat also didn’t help the DHS cause. They needed composure as it was BMT time.
@Henkies: the AI cameras are a bit of a joke to be honest. You would think some schools (particularly the private ones) would ensure better quality streaming.
I think reffing at schoolboy level in general has been poor for a while and unfortunately nor getting better. I have my own view on this but maybe best left unsaid;)
As far as Hilton goes, their playing style and really well coached game plan relies on a smothering defence so living on the offensive line is 100% expected – why refs aren’t seeing it, well there’s a question.
What isn’t great has been some of School’s responses to it. Short-term memory loss from when College’s leveling score was missed by the ref at van Heerdens a few weeks ago.
All that said, Hilton do seem to enjoy some favourable calls…ask House last week too
@Dixon’s: There did appear to be some debatable calls leading up to the final Hilton try, eg knock on in line out with no advantage to DHS
@Dixon’s: Hi Dixons I only watched on the Supersport AI feed so it’s difficult to see exactly the reason for the penalties with no sound and the view from so far away. Just observing from that however, I could not see why DHS seemed to get on the wrong end of so many calls. It also seemed like Hilton defended very much on the offside line. It wouldn’t be fair for me to judge though having only watched on the AI feed which as we know is very far from the action.
Was anybody at the Hilton v DHS game? Im hearing some very disturbing things about the reffing at Hilton. Heard similar compliants last year after the Hilton V Glenwood game. I would love to hear from some Hilton fans about what they think about it.
@Dixon’s: Ouch… but still, as a neutral, I’m surprised MC so dominant. Nevertheless well done Maritzburg College, that was a strong performance.
@Dixon’s: Sies man! Time for a coaching change. I’m surprised by the close margins in the juniors, bodes well. U16A and U14A winning, U15A close.
Result
College 42
Glenwood 15
Glenwood getting spanked properly in the 2nd half. 6 – 3 down at halftime, 28 – 3 down with 10 to play.
Same old shambolic lineout. Same old tired tactics. Such a potent backline but they never get the ball, Heiberg still making a living of an undefeated season in 2018 but showing very little coaching ability
Penalty on the halfway. Glenwood take a scrum. Shows you what they think of their own lineout
Very scrappy game so far. Very windy in PMB. But as usual, Glenwoods lineout is a shambles. Putting themselves under unnecessary pressure.
@Dixon’s: I think it’s poor from the SA Government to allow loadshedding, which is actually blackouts….
@Kaya 85: It’s a great programme, but gosh College love to repeat how successful they are and how they have the most teams etc. Their results are not right either, 50 wins for Glenwood, 15 draws not 17.
@Grasshopper: Thanks! Load shedding in PMB at the moment. No food available for purchase and a only a small selection of lukewarm drinks. Very poor from College to not make contingency plans for Load Shedding.
@Grasshopper: Thanks for the link…I commend Maritzburg College for their “Maritzburg Way” and Spectators’d Code of Conduct as printed in the Team sheet. ITs good to remind boys, parents and spectators of the core values from time to time
@Dixon’s: https://maritzburgcollege.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/MC-Sport-Glenwood.pdf-1.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0-T3OsmwUcrxqzL9DIotXuJqs7ErZFn4YlkdTVilSjel1PPPDdXOmW5vk
Just got to College. Warmish winters afternoon. Lovely weather for some rugby.
My usual gripe as always….. no available programmes or teamsheets. But i wasnt charged to enter, take note Glenwood. I guess we are all stuck having to pay back the money that Crookshaw stole.
Just heard the Glenwood U14A’s won, 15-14. Well that’s a result! Maybe there is hope in the future…
@Vleis: Yep, I built in Palm Lakes, not as exclusive as those you mentioned. Kearsney sent a bus there to collect day boys. Clifton could do the same. Early start and late back though. Northwood gaining the most by the semigration.
@Kaya 85: I spent a month in the Ballito, Sheffield Beach area a few years ago and was astounded at the huge volume of top-end estates built (or being built) in the area – e.g. Simbithi, Dunkirk, Elaleni, Seaton, Zululani, etc. I was told that the people buying properties in said area are largely other KZNers semi-grating up the coast. This must present a great opportunity for Clifton, as it’s reasonably nearby and there aren’t any other private schools that play decent rugby in the area. Indeed, some could send their kids to Clifton for weekly boarding.
2 3 House against Kearsney at home never go to be easy. Going to be in the Bush for 5 hours tomorrow. May come out near Kearsney by 14:00
My money on the Green Machine in Pmb.
@Kaya 85: Yep, actual Scumbilo. Durban Girls High just up the road, about 1km away.
@Grasshopper: Is Glenwood in actual Umbilo…what about Dnb Girls High? are they in a similar situation?
@ForeverHorseFly: good point
My Predictions based on not actually seeing any of these side play in the flesh;
Glenwood by 3 – we always lift our game on Greenstones
DHS by 10 – by far the best side in KZN this year
House by 10 – seething from last weeks loss
Jeppe by 8 – coming down to the coast gives them that edge.
Clifton by 10
@Dixon’s: Enjoy the day Dixon. Going to be one heck of a game. Stopping off for a spot of brunch in Cato Ridge ?
@ForeverHorseFly: Yes, the conveyor belt of boys from Pretoria stopped and DHS have sealed the Eastern Cape/Border pipe, plus DHS are getting DPHS and Glenwood Prep boys. We just can’t compete with your billionaire OB and others. Kershaw is aggressive on this front and our previous head was less so. Northwood is now the preferred choice for North Coast families. I just think Glenwood and DHS are in a tough spot, location-wise. I am stoked to hear the derby is back, egos are smaller than schools history. DHS will be stronger than Glenwood for the next 5 years at least
@Grasshopper: I think the issue isn’t so much that Glenwood is in decline but more the fact that all the other top KZN schools have caught up to them recruiting wise throughout the age groups.
To be honest Umbilo was never attractive even 10 years ago yet Glenwood continued to dominate so the area isn’t the issue, especially when most rugby players were boarders anyways, unless you are saying the boarder numbers are also down from where they were in previous years.
I think KZN rugby now is in a healthier place because any school can beat any other school which makes it more exciting. I saw Beet posted previously the DHS and Glenwood game will be back next year which has been long overdue.
I finished school 23 years ago, and despite the fantastic success Glenwood have had against College (at 1ST XV level) recently I still get nervous whenever Glenwood play them.
Having watched both teams play this season i think its going to be a close game, but if the Glenwoods backline finally click they could be a sight to behold! The forwards just need to cut out the mistakes and not overcomplicate things, especially the lineouts.
Got another 2 hours of work to do today then lock up the office, fill the tank and get ready for the drive to PMB midmorning tomorrow!
@Kaya 85: if they can get all of the DPHS team and some of Glenwood Prep/Penzance etc then yes. I think private schooling is becoming too expensive though, let’s see…
@Kaya 85: Yes, that is the feeling I get. No more money to recruit outside of KZN and Umbilo isn’t exactly attractive. The Junior sides seemed to be struggling, but picked it up at Wildeklawer. I don’t think the open sides are as competitive as before either, I remember a time when the 2nd team were like unbeatable, not now. I also don’t see many great coaches down the age groups. But hey, I hope to be proven wrong. I remember when Glenwood could put out 25 sides, not problem, these days more like 18. DHS at one point was battling to put out 12!
@Grasshopper: I don’t have in depth information, …but are you saying that Glenwood’s rugby programme is in decline?
Great write up on the matches Beet. All bound to be closely fought games. All teams are coming off big matches from the previous weekend as well. I agree with your thoughts on the College tight five. They’ve been great to watch. Also very keen to see how the Westville v Jeppe forwards match up – 2 big abrasive packs taking eachother on, it will be interesting to see who gets the upper hand there. DHS looked very good against Drodsty. Their timing and passing in the backs was more accurate and will need to be this Sat if they’re going to get around that Hilton defence. KZN Bumper weekend – enjoy chaps!
Thanks for the write ups, gives more nuanced perspectives. DHS have been very exciting, and what’s more, battle-hardened and improving. Clifton are the ‘Italy’ of this league, but as you say, if they are building a boarding house, and if the powers that be decide to systematically invest in rugby there could be big things ahead for them, especially also as they are so near to Kings Park and the Sharks headquarters.
Great write up again Beet, love the green stone wall ;-). I fear you are right, this is the last year we will be competitive with College. Staggers in the lower teams means Glenwood is battling with depth. Played 172 times and last year we registered our 50th win. We do seem to pick ourselves at 1st team level for College. My fear is we go back to the dark days of the mid 90’s. In 1995 we had our biggest loss ever, 13-61, I was there. That Monday was very bleak and quiet in the corridors. Since then we’ve registered our biggest win over them, 57-12 in 2015. The College OBs hate that we’ve had the upper hand recently.Go Green!