AFTER a tough start to their pre-season, the PhotoNote Crusaders are looking to get their Fidelity Secure Premier Division season off to the perfect start on Saturday as they take on their Durban North rivals, Varsity College RFC Tigers.

The club which has undergone changes in staff and players since last season are in somewhat of a transition phase. Despite this, captain of the team, Shandon Carter is confident his side can begin the season in the perfect way on Saturday away from home.

“It’s exciting for us because we are starting afresh, it’s a very new look Crusaders team and a win for us would be the perfect way to start the season. We had a very tough pre-season, so it’s important that start stronger in the premier division. Durban North derby’s are always tough so it’s going to be a typical high tempo game.

“We lost to both Collegians and Rovers in the Flya knockout competition but I think as we head into this clash will have a number of players returning from injury. Some people may have written us off but the senior players are going to have to step up. We have exciting new talent so it’s important for us to begin in the best possible way with a win,” he said.

This year 11 teams will compete in the competition with the inclusion of Fidelity Security Jaguars, Newcaslte Highlanders and Fidelity Security South Coast Warriors. The aim of the expanded tournament is to increase the base of quality rugby played throughout the province, while offering opportunities to a larger number of players.