Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE 2025 Bulawayo Metropolitan Rugby Football Board (BMRFB) Archer Clothing Rugby League has gone into a two-week mid-season break, giving teams a chance to regroup after five bruising rounds of action.
The break, which kicked off this past weekend, is being welcomed as a much needed breather following a frantic opening to the campaign that’s already served up drama, upsets, and standout performances.
“After five weeks of intense rugby action, the 2025 BMRFB Archer Senior heads into a two week mid-season break,” said tournament director George Hlatshwayo.
“This is a well-deserved pause. The clubs have delivered incredible performances week in and week out. This break gives our teams time to recharge, regroup, and refocus on their goals.
“I want to commend each and every team for their commitment, sportsmanship, and passion. They’ve given fans plenty of long lasting memories. I’m confident that when we return to action, we’ll see even more thrilling matches and outstanding displays.”
Hlatshwayo added that the window will also allow teams to monitor injured players and refine their strategies heading into the second half of the season.
Despite the break, not every side will be resting. Some clubs are using the window to catch up on outstanding fixtures from earlier in the season. Over the weekend, Western Suburbs Panthers edged Mahogany Bulls 24–22 in one such tie. Reigning champions Old Miltonians (OMs) top the standings with a perfect record of four wins in as many matches, collecting 20 points including four bonus points.
They head into the break fresh off a 39–25 victory over familiar rivals and last year’s runners up, Matabeleland Warriors.
The Warriors sit second with 17 points (five bonus), having won three and lost one. Panthers are third with 14 points (two bonus) from three wins and two losses. Highlanders, who’ve also played five games, are fourth with eight points from two wins and three defeats.
The Bulls occupy fifth with six points (two bonus) from a single win in three outings, while Bulldogs anchor the log with just one bonus point after losing all five of their matches.
In the women’s division, Matabeleland Warriors lead the standings with 15 points (three bonus) from three wins and a single loss. Lions are second on 12 points (four bonus), followed by Bulldogs on 10 points after picking up two wins, a draw and one defeat.
Panthers and Highlanders sit fourth and fifth with six and five points respectively.
No women’s matches are scheduled for this coming weekend. — @brandon_malvin
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