Undefeated clash!

THE stage is set for a thrilling local derby this afternoon at Hartsfield Rugby Grounds. The mighty Matabeleland Warriors and Old Miltonians (OMs) lock horns in a crucial match that will close out the first half of the Bulawayo Metropolitan Rugby Football Board (BMRFB) Archer Clothing Rugby League.

Both teams are powerhouses in the league, currently neck-and-neck at the top of the standings with just a single point separating them.
OMs, last season’s runners-up, currently hold the lead with 15 points, while defending champions Warriors trail closely behind at 14 points.

The match promises fireworks as both sides remain undefeated after three games. OMs hold a slight edge with three bonus points compared to the Warriors’ two, making today’s encounter even more critical.

One winning streak will be broken by the final whistle, and past encounters hint at a close battle. Last year, the Warriors emerged victorious in the only meeting between the two teams with a score of 25-12.

Despite thorough preparations, OMs face a setback with three key players missing the match due to other obligations. However, head coach Victor Chiwara expresses confidence in his replacements, believing they’ll rise to the occasion. He said his team is highly motivated and eager for the clash.

“Everything is in place, preparation has been going well. However, we have three key players missing but I’m sure we will make it work. It’s obviously a big blow for us because the three guys are anchors but we believe in the next man up, so whoever comes in to play will have to be up for the task and give a good performance.

“The mood is good in camp and the boys are ready for the game, it’s a big game, a derby so they are all self-motivated, they know what’s at stake and are willing to give their all,” said Chiwara.

Meanwhile, the Warriors are cautiously optimistic as they assess the fitness of a few key players who picked up injuries this past week. Head coach Aubrey Dube remains confident that his team has enough firepower to compete. He said injuries are a part of the game and they shouldn’t prevent his team from performing well.

Dube stresses that today’s match hinges on clinical execution, leaving no room for errors from either side.
“Everything has gone and according to plan, we have had good preparations and I believe we are ready for the game. It’s all now up to the boys to fight in the field of play but I believe that whoever makes the least mistakes will walk away with the victory.

“Some of our senior players are nursing injuries but we will be assessing them to see their progress. It’s four of our key players and we are not yet sure whether they will be ready to play or not but that shouldn’t be an excuse. We have a strong squad of capable players and whoever plays will have to give their all. Everyone is looking forward to the game, it’s going to be a good day of rugby,” said Dube.

The game is scheduled to start at 3.30pm and BMRFB vice chairperson Carrington Busili has called on all rugby lovers to come in numbers and support the game.
“It’s a big one and a match of this magnitude will need large crowds on the sidelines. We are calling on everyone to come through to Hartsfield and enjoy rugby. There are a number of exciting matches on the cards so make sure you don’t miss out. Its local rugby at its best,” said Busili.

Other matches lined up for today will see Highlanders Ladies face off against Panthers Ladies in the only women’s match on the schedule.
In the championship division, the Panthers will be up against Highlanders before the big one pitting Warriors and OMs. There will also be a schools rugby encounter between Milton Elephants and Wise Owl.

Gate charges into the stadium are pegged at US$1 for general entry and US$2 for VIP. Matches start as early as 12pm. After today’s games, the league will take a two-week break.

BMRFB Archer Clothing Rugby League Matches today:
Women: Highlanders vs Panthers (12pm)
Championship: Panthers vs Highlanders (12.30pm), Warriors vs Old Miltonians (3.30pm)
CBZ Schools Rugby Clashes 2024: Milton vs Wise Owl (12.30pm).
@brandon_malvin