KES are looking to avenge last season’s heart-wrenching defeat by arch-rivals Pretoria Boys’ High.

The teams had two epic battles last season. KES won the first fixture 17-15 at home only to lose the second 13-11 at Boys’ High – along with their unbeaten 2009 record.

With Saturday’s game being at KES, the hosts will start as favourites.

It should be an intriguing battle because of the sides’ contrasting styles of rugby. KES will be looking to play an expansive game and move the ball into space (the weather conditions should suit their approach), while the Pretoria outfit should aim to utilise their pack and play for territory through clever tactical use of the boot.

Meanwhile, Jeppe will be searching for a victory at St John’s after their 20-14 defeat in last season’s meeting.

‘It will certainly be a tough game for our boys,’ said new St John’s director of rugby Stefan Louwrens. ‘Jeppe are renowned for their huge forward pack, and this year is no different. Our players are confident but will have to play well in order to win.’

In KZN, Maritzburg College will travel to DHS for a floodlit match that will celebrate 100 years of rugby at the Durban school.

In a televised clash, Westville, who lost 18-17 to Michaelhouse last weekend, will host Kearsney College, with Westville scrumhalf Dwayne Kelly and flyhalf Duncan Campbell expected to play key roles.

Saturday’s fixtures:
13:15 – KES vs Pretoria Boys’
12:30 – Jeppe vs St John’s
14:30 – Westville vs Kearsney
18:30 – DHS vs Maritzburg

By Gareth Wright

This entry was posted on Friday, March 12th, 2010 at 11:09 am and is filed under Derby schools, Gauteng, KES, Pretoria Boys', Schools Derby, Schools news. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.