Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, [email protected]
BULAWAYO Metropolitan Rugby Football Board (BMRFB) Archer Clothing League defending champions Old Miltonians (OMs) got their title defence off to a solid start following a crushing victory over Highlanders at Hartsfield Rugby Grounds on Saturday.
The Old Boys, who made history by securing back-to-back titles last year, proved a class above the Black and White Army, cruising to a 70-3 win.
It was a statement victory from the defending champions, who had suffered a 20-0 walkover defeat against Bulldogs in the opening round of matches the previous week.
Speaking after their thrashing of Highlanders, OMs coach Victor Chiwara said he was pleased with the way his charges performed throughout the match.
“It was a good win, the guys showed flashes of brilliance here and there. Although, there was a bit of disjointment because we threw in a lot of young players. But, overall, i am happy with the win, first one for the season and we are only going up from there,” said Chiwara.
In the opening week of fixtures, OMs were in the capital where they faced Harare Sports Club. Chiwara said they needed the step up of facing a stronger side in order to improve their game.
He added that they have their sights firmly set on dominance once again.
“It’s important, we really need that step up as Bulawayo rugby, and test ourselves against the best teams in the country. The intensity was a lot different in that game, it showed a different side to our players and i think with that pressure, our players played a lot better. Hopefully we get more of those competitive games at a higher level. Always (have our targets on the three-peat. We love the pressure and hopefully, when the national league comes along, we want to be the number one team in the country,” said Chiwara.
With OMs dismantling Highlanders, it was another victory for last season’s runners-up Matabeleland Warriors, who secured a commanding 51-0 win over newcomers Bulawayo Raiders.
In the opening round of matches, Warriors had recorded a 20-0 walkover win over Mahogany Bulls.
On the other hand, Mahogany Bulls bounced back from that walkover defeat to beat Bulldogs 51-13 and get their campaign up and running.
Western Suburbs Panthers were on a bye this past week.
In the only women’s match played this past Saturday, Wild Cats defeated OMs Ladies 17-10.
Action continues this coming weekend, with seven fixtures across both the men’s and women’s leagues lined up.
In the men’s division, Mahogany Bulls will face Bulawayo Raiders, while Bulldogs are set to take on Warriors.
Western Suburbs Panthers and Highlanders will square off in what promises to be a thrilling encounter, headlining the day’s fixtures.
In the women’s championship, Warriors are set to face Highlanders while Bulldogs will take on Wild Cats. The final match will be between Panthers and OMs. – @brandon_malvin
