The next chapter in the most-fierce club-rugby rivalry in the Lowveld will be written tomorrow. Nelspruit Rugby Club will host White River Rugby Club in the MRU Super League.

The players of the two strongest clubs in the Lowveld are, mostly, friends off the field. However once they run down the stairs from the change rooms and cross that white touch line tomorrow, the status quo changes.

Victory is the only prize. The losing team will have a bitter pill to swallow. This derby is known for the passion and aggression of the players involved. At times the laws of the game are pushed to the limit, at times they are overstepped.

It is the most-intense and exciting rugby fixture of the season.

Both teams scored valuable victories last Saturday.

White River I hosted Ferros I and powered to a 42-24 win. White River Rugby Club’s second XV beat Ferros II, 39-31

Nelspruit I travelled to Middelburg I and defeated the Highveld side 31-24. Nelspruit’s second team defeated Middelburg’s seconds 38-12.

Tomorrow’s game will be won from the set-pieces. The team which secures quality possession from scrums and lineouts will test the other’s defence.

White River has a powerful front row in Mervin Gilbert, WF Kotze and veteran, Hennie Roos. Nelspruit’s Gerhard Heunis, Frans Jordaan and Friday Mavuso will be tested to the limit.

Defence will also be a key factor. Missed tackles and poor defensive lines will be punished.

In a tight match such as this one goal kicking will be crucial. White River’s Eldred James and Nelspruit’s Tiaan Greef can boot them over from 55 metres. Both had 100 per cent kicking records last weekend.

The pressure is on and 80 minutes of war can be expected at Nelspruit Rugby Club on Saturday.

The second teams kick-off at 14:00 and the first teams at 15:30.

Supporters of both clubs and rugby lovers are invited to attend the matches. Food and beverages will be on sale.

Nelspruit I won a hard-fought battle against Middelburg I last Saturday.

Trailing 7-24 early in the second half, Nelspruit dug deep and scored three tries to win the match 31-24.

Scrumhalf WP van Tonder scored three tries and lock Willem Kok one. Greef slotted four conversions and a penalty.

Nelspruit II thrashed Middelburg II by 38 points to 12.