Brothers putting it all on line for clubs

BROTHERLY love will temporarily be forgotten in Clydevale this weekend, as four members of the Turnbull family clash in a southern rugby fixture for the first time.

The brothers, of Balclutha, share as many things in common as they do differences, but all that will be put aside when they run out in opposing colours today.

Eldest and youngest pair Adam (28) and Liam (17) play for Clutha Valley, and middle pair Kurt (25) and Josh (22) for Clutha Rugby Club. Adam and Josh are facing off as hookers, and Kurt and Liam as flankers.

Adam and Liam both work as builders locally, although for different firms, and Kurt and Josh as plumbers, again under different banners.

Onlookers could be forgiven for feeling confused.

However, combined with a shared passion for the national game, all four brothers brought their own unique skills to their respective sides, Josh said.

‘‘There’s obviously a bit of competition when you get four brothers together, so it’ll be more than just a friendly rivalry on Saturday. We’ve all got our strengths and weaknesses, and we’ll be looking to exploit those as much as possible.’’

Of the fab foursome, Josh estimated Kurt was probably fastest, Liam best ball handler and kicker, and he himself best thrower to the lineout.

‘‘Obviously that’s my totally unbiased opinion. Adam’s the oldest so he’s slowing up a bit, unfortunately.’’

Unbeaten in this season’s competition to date, Clutha is a strong favourite to win today but that didn’t mean Valley, third on the table, was giving up just yet, Adam said.

‘‘Form doesn’t mean anything.

‘‘We won’t be holding back in the tackle and we’ll be working hard to cause an upset.’’

The fixture would be charged with added significance as it was a year ago this week that the brothers’ mother Trudie died from cancer, Josh said.

‘‘She was a big fan, probably leaning towards Clutha, whereas Dad [David] leans the other way, for Valley.

‘‘She’ll definitely be there in spirit with Dad . . . wearing her red hat proudly.’’

Clutha Valley plays Clutha at Clydevale today at 3pm.

PHOTO: STEPHEN JAQUIERY Battle of the ’bulls . . . The clash between Clutha Valley and Clutha at Clydevale today will have special significance for one group of South Otago brothers. From left, Kurt, Josh, Adam and Liam Turnbull will take the field at the same time, Kurt and...