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Zimpapers Sports Hub
PLUMTREE High School champions Amabhubesi picked up where they left off, brushing aside Bulldogs 26 – 5 at Hartsfield on Saturday, to kick off their Bulawayo Metropolitan Rugby Football Board Under 20 League defence in confident fashion.
The scoreline told the story of a side that still knows how to control a game. Amabhubesi settled quickly, dictated the pace and never allowed Bulldogs a real way back once they got in front.
There may be new faces in the squad but the attitude looked familiar. The champions played with purpose, kept their shape and showed enough power to remind the rest of the league that the badge still carries weight.
Coach Francis “Fra” Nakamu liked what he saw from a group still finding its rhythm after losing several senior players.
“For us, it’s about building the next group. We lost some boys but the way the team played shows there is still quality coming through,” said Nakamu.
He admitted the start of the term made preparations tricky with several players juggling athletics, but the response on the field pleased him. “We haven’t had much time together because of other school commitments but the boys handled it well. Winning the first game settles everyone and gives us something to build on.”
Nakamu said the focus at Plumtree is not only on the boys, with the girls’ side also pushing to challenge this season.
“We have strong numbers in the girls’ team and we want them competing right at the top.”
Around the grounds, Western Suburbs Panthers delivered the biggest result of the round with a 70-0 win over Lions. New side Bulawayo Raiders marked their arrival with a 32-0 victory against Matopo.
Matabeleland Warriors edged CBC Hornets 12-7 while Highlanders beat Old Miltonians 10-7 in a tight contest.
In the girls’ games, Plumtree completed a double over Bulldogs with a 14 – 5 win. Panthers beat Founders 30 – 0 and Warriors saw off Highlanders 15 – 0.
Tournament director Ndumiso Tshuma said the opening round showed how much the competition continues to grow.
“It was good to see strong competition and new teams coming in. The aim is to keep improving standards and give young players a pathway,” he said.
Attention now shifts to the next round where Amabhubesi will look to back up their opening statement when they face Ireland tomorrow, a fixture that should give a clearer picture of how quickly the new-look champions are settling.
Online Reporter