Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
OLD MILTONIANS launched their 2025 Bulawayo Metropolitan Rugby Football Board (BMRFB) Archer Clothing Rugby League title defence in emphatic fashion, thrashing Highlanders 79–8 at Hartsfield Rugby Grounds on Saturday.
Last season’s champions wasted no time asserting their dominance, running in 13 tries in a one-sided encounter that set the tone for what could be another commanding campaign.
OMs led 24–3 at half-time before adding a further 55 points in the second half. Despite missing six conversions, their relentless attacking play overwhelmed the opposition. Highlanders managed a single unconverted try in response.
Despite the emphatic scoreline, OMs coach Paradzai Matsika believes there is still plenty of room for improvement.
“It’s good that we got a solid win in the first game, but mentally, we’re not quite there yet. There were too many mistakes for my liking. It wasn’t a bad win, but we weren’t at 100 percent. This coming week, we need to fix a few things — especially our set plays. Our forwards weren’t really getting into it. But it’s the first game, so some errors were expected,” Matsika said.
Matsika stressed the importance of sharpening execution and discipline going forward, noting that Saturday’s performance was intended to send a message.
“We need to work on knowing how and when to execute certain moves depending on where we are on the field.
“That’s what we’ll be focusing on. Coming in as defending champions, we wanted to show that we’ve upped our game.
“This season we’re coming hard and expecting more big wins,” he said.
Highlanders coach Silethokuhle ‘Slater’ Ndlovu, who scored his team’s only try, remained upbeat despite the heavy defeat.
He praised the effort and spirit shown by his youthful squad.
“We have a young squad, with maybe five senior guys, so we did expect a tough match. But I’m happy with the resilience the boys showed. They kept going forward and weren’t afraid. If someone keeps trying, that’s a good sign. They’ll be better next week,” said Ndlovu.
The match held personal significance for Ndlovu, who shared the field with his son, Sibusiso, in a proud father-son moment.
Elsewhere, last year’s runners-up were awarded a 20–0 walkover against Bulldogs, who failed to show up.
Only two men’s matches were played on Saturday. In the women’s division, Matabeleland cruised past Panthers 20–0, while Warriors recorded a similar scoreline against Bulldogs.
Second-round matches are scheduled for this Saturday at the same venue. — @brandon_malvin
Online Reporter