The Midlands Derby looms

On Saturday, 23 June there will be huge interest in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands as the two traditional rivals clash on Gilfillan field, Hilton and Michaelhouse.

A special relationship exists between the two great schools and this will be the last winter sports fixture for Rector Guy Pearson from Michaelhouse who moves to the Cape at the end of the year.

It promises to be a fine match and a big crowd is expected as all the varsities are on holiday and the state schools would have closed, and, of course, the many supporters of both schools will descend on the Midlands.

Chris de Beer, the Hilton College captain, and Head of School said: “I can speak on behalf of the Hilton first side and say that no matter what the previous results of both teams the game can go either way depending on who is more hungry on the day itself and we will be more than up to the task and are looking forward to the game.

"The game is set up to be a cracker and I encourage people of all backgrounds to get down to Hilton to enjoy sport and the day itself. Hilton will dedicate the fixture to the rugby against rape concept which falls under the Jess Foord foundation, a great cause I might add.

"I wish my competitors all the best and hope sport rather than a school is the winner at the end of the day.”

Many of the boys from both schools have attended prep school together and although there is a fierce rivalry, both schools are great friends, and have much in common. With Hilton playing at home they will have home territory advantage but it promises once again to be a keenly contested match.

By Paul Guthrie