Schoonspruit - Tembelani Matiwani
Big Schoonspruit captain Tembelani Matiwani plans to lead from the front when his side face Piketburg in their FNB Classic Clashe this weekend.
The physical lock has never lost a FNB Classic Clash against their rivals, and is determined to stamp his authority as Schoonspruit look to make it four consecutive victories over Piketburg.
Matiwani played for a Boland Under-18 invitational side against Italy last year which inspired him to become a professional rugby player, and he hopes to break into the Boland Under-19 side this year.
He sees himself in the mould of Bakkies Botha, and has pledged to use all of his experience to get his team the win this weekend.
"First and foremost to lead by example. This is my third year in the first XV, and use those experience to be a role model for my younger teammates and create an environment where they can grow their game. Also to help uphold our teamvalues and be a rolemodel for the larger school community.
"I like to lead by example. Whether it is as a ball carrier, in general play or on defence. I see myself as a Bakkies Botha type of lock where you need to dominate your opponent physically," he said.
Although they have lost a few players this year, results have been encouraging this seaon, and Matiwani is full of confidence ahead of the big game.
"Some players in key positions are still very young and tend to make some mistakes. So we lost some of our games but managed to win our local derby against local rivals Swartland High.
"It is a balance between experience and some youthful guys. I’m excited and can't wait to get on to the field," he said.
He is expecting a physical battle from Piketburg and has instructed his team to make the most of the opportunity.
"They always have a big pack of forwards. This year is no different except 6 of them also played last year. So the challenge will be to get hands on the ball from where we can play our game.
"There is a lot of hype around this week such as practices, old students, media, functions and the 'big brag' on Friday. I told the boys to enjoy and savour everything. For some it is their first and the Matrics their last FNB Classic Clash. Come Saturday we need to focus and concentrate on the job at hand," he warned.
