Captain's profile: Siyanda Mlambo

 

"In the previous two Classic Clashes it was tight with each school winning one game. Both games were very close and exciting.," said Mlambo ahead of the much anticipated game.

 

"I'm expecting a tough and physical game. 

 

"St.John's have a never back down in attitude, and they always play until the last minute."

 

Mlambo, who clocks in at 80kg and is 175cm tall, and has a wealth of experience representing his 1st XV for three years, and is currently trialing for the Lions Under-19 team.

 

The Parktown skipper, who plays outside centre, leads by example and "never backs down from a challenge", and he feels his strengths as a player are in ball carrying in the midfield and his vision. Mlambo's best asset as a leader, are his abilities to communicate with his team, and calm them down under pressure. 

 

The Parktown team is missing crucial players at lock, scrumhalf and centre but Mlambo believes this will not put them down.

 

"We have a young, experienced and gutsy side, and I know the players that have stepped-in will strengthen us," added the captain.

 

Mlambo's message to his team this week is: "Play hard, stick to structure… it’s about the game and not about the side-shows. We must also have fun. St. John's, my boys are ready!"

 

Mlambo's short-term plans are to complete matric with great results, so in the long-term he can plan to study a Bcom Law degree.