PE, Churchill in headline clash

THE much-touted Harare Derby between Prince Edward High School and Churchill Boys High is expected to dominate week two of the CBZ Bank Schools Rugby season today.

While six matches will take place today, it is the match-up between these two storied institution that is expected to dominate headlines.

The Bulldogs carry a slight edge over their rivals after their first meeting at the Mwana Group International Schools Rugby Festival ended the in a 22-all statement after which Churchill won 34-10 in the Derby Day clash a few days later.

However, defend their turf will be top priority for Shaun De Souza and his Prince Edward Tigers.

“The pre-season didn’t really go our way as we drew during the first match-up and they beat us at the Derby Day.

“However, we will have to be at our best and defend our home turf come tomorrow (today),” said De Souza.

“The derby clashes between these two sides are big, one of the biggest in the country, and I know Geoff Madhake has been prepping his boys and well and we will have to be at our best,” he said.

Both sets of players go into today clash with injury-ravaged sides but promised a highly entertaining match.

“Our preparations have been good, but we have some injury worries going into the match,” said Churchill Boys High coach Geoff Madhake.

“We have injury woes at the fly-half, scrum-half and full back positions and I pray that the boys heal in time for the match.

“This is a big game for both teams and it has been like that for some time.

“Unlike some derbies in our other sports, this one is purely competitive and has never turned violent for as long as I have been involved.

“Yes, rugby is a violent sport but it is one that is played by gentlemen,” he said.

It is a similar case for De Souza and his team as the Tigers, as Prince Edward are known, also have their own injury worries.

“We have about three key players that have been ruled out for the match through injuries, while the rest are in a race against time to be fit for the match.

“We will have to risk a few as we don’t necessarily have the depth after losing some players who got scholarship to study overseas,” said De Souza.

In today’s matches, St George’s College square up against St John College, while Hellenic Academy host Eaglesvale.

Heritage play Getaway at home while Petehouse hosts Lomagundi.

In Bulawayo, Falcon College host Christian Brothers College (CBC).