HHH and Strand in Classic Clash
With many eyes focused on the Top Schools in the country, the value of the Classic Clash have somewhat become the step child in the Schools Rugby fraternity.
However, for these two schools their annual fixture still draws in tremendous support.
The build-up towards the first XV game has already started on August 15, with the hosts having a funky tie day while even Hoërskool Strand's staff dressed up for their Big Brag.
It is truly a remarkable event in any school’s pupil life.
In terms of first XV performance, both schools have been struggling this season.
The hosts head into this clash hopefully rejuvenated after their bye week. The side last played on August 5, where they stumbled to a 12-29 defeat to DF Malan at home.
HHH frail performance could be due to their lack of matches this season. The side have only played seven fixtures and produced three wins. They have not played against any Top20 opposition.
In terms of match temperament, Strand do possess the advantage. They have played 13 matches and have managed to win five.
They have even played one school ranked in the Top 20.
Despite below par seasons, both schools know the significance of the Classic Clash victory. And just that will enhance the fixture’s competitiveness on the field.
Results against Common Opponents:
DF Malan: HHH lost 12-29, Strand lost 12-26
Parel Vallei: HHH won 20-17, Strand won 19-0
Hermanus: HHH lost 10-19, Strand lost 5-27
Teams:
HHH: 15 Kyle Cyster, 14 Craig Smith, 13 Robin Gelant, 12 Keanu Maree (captain), 11 Lee Benjamin, 10 Keanu Krige, 9 Cuan Maree, 8 Achmat Smith, 7 Reuben Pienaar, 6 Jeffery Laka, 5 Obed Kadima, 4 Justin Daniels, 3 Erin Brown, 2 Gibbs Sompondo, 1 Gsica Sokwiliwa.
Strand: 15 JJ Stover (Captain), 14 Tonie Potgieter, 13 Tumelo Moremi, 12 Wiehann Meyer, 11 Cole Arnoldus, 10 Marco Anderson, 9 Hugan Engelbrecht, 8 Gunter Mohr, 7 Naym Jansen, 6 Philip de Bruyn, 5 Zanten Nolan, 4 Ruan Meyer, 3 Johan Loots, 2 Jason Snyders, 1 Rheino van Schalkwyk.
Saturday’s Program:
A-Field
08.30: Under-15A
09.45: Second XV
11.00: Under-16 A
12.45: First XV
B-Field:
08.30: Third XV
09.45: Under-14A
11.00: Under-15B
Saturday’s Program (In case of Rain)
A-Field:
11.00: Under-16A
12.45: First XV
B-Field:
08.30: Under-15A
09.45: Second XV
11.00: Under-15B
C-Field:
08.30: Third XV
09.45: Under-14A
Photo Credit: Hottentots-Holland High school