Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo
TWO unbeaten giants, one legendary battlefield.
All roads lead to Hartsfield Grounds this Saturday as Old Miltonians (OMs) and Matabeleland Warriors lock horns in what promises to be a rugby rumble for the ages.
It’s the clash everyone’s been waiting for, the titanic derby that headlines Week Five of the 2025 Bulawayo Metropolitan Rugby Football Board (BMRFB) Archer Clothing Rugby League.
Both sides are coming in hot with four wins apiece, and bragging rights are up for grabs in what could be a preview of this year’s final.
OMs coach Victor Chiwara, the architect behind last season’s double derby triumph, says no motivational speech is needed for a rivalry this fierce.
“Our preparations are going well. The guys are excited. It’s one of those games that speaks for itself,” said Chiwara.
He expects fireworks, describing it as a clash of opposites.
“Warriors are free-flowing, instinctive. We’re about systems, structure and hard work. This one’s going to light up Hartsfield.”
But he’s not declaring victory just yet.
“Yes, we’re the defending champions and that comes with pressure — but pressure is a privilege,” Chiwara said. “We’ve earned our spot and respect the Warriors. They were kings before us. They’ll be desperate to take back their crown.”
However, the OMs camp is nursing some war wounds. Injuries from their recent win over Western Suburbs Panthers have side-lined two key players.
“Losing brothers like Ziyanda Khupe, who is likely out for the season and Paul Chade, whose status is uncertain, hurts,” said Chiwara. “But this is rugby. It’s about stepping up. Next man in. No excuses.”
On the Warriors’ side, Coach Gilbert Nyamutsamba is keeping it cool.
“We’re taking it one game at a time,” he said. “OMs are tough, no doubt. But our boys are ready. They know what’s at stake.”
Hartsfield will be a hive of action long before the 4 PM kick-off. In other fixtures, Highlanders take on Mahogany Bulls, while Western Suburbs Panthers clash with Bulldogs.
Panthers coach George ‘Rollo’ Mucherera, hinted at shake-ups.
“Bulldogs have improved, but we’ve got the edge in experience,” said Rollo. “We’ll be giving some of our young guns a chance to shine.”
Bulldogs coach Newman Hatchway, knows his side is rebuilding.
“We’ve lost six players, so we’re fielding a fresh squad,” he said. “It’s been rough, but we’re pushing through. Our aim is to rise and grow.”
In the women’s division, Warriors face Highlanders, while Panthers take on Bulldogs.
It’s rugby mayhem this Saturday and the city’s oldest rivalry is taking centre stage. Two unbeaten titans. One winner. Get to Hartsfield and witness rugby royalty go to war.
Kickoff: 4 PM sharp.
Let the battle begin.
