Classic Clash victory ends principal’s 25 year stay on a high note

Rivalries have the ability to bring the best out of teams, even when the form books might state otherwise.
This was exactly what transpired in THS Potchefstroom’s inspired 28–7 victory against Potchefstroom Boys’ High in their highly-anticipated FNB Classic Clash on Saturday, 19 May on the former’s home turf.

The home ground advantage was definitely one of the key aspects, together with THS’s lion-like ferocity in defence and Leopard-like prowling on attack. THS coach, Lappies Labuschagne’s men were relentless throughout the match and exemplified the heart, passion and motivation to take back possession of the Classic Clash and Mellow Wood trophies.

See the photos here: 

In contrast, Boys’ High may have taken their opposition too lightly as they made uncharacteristic errors and seemed to get sucked into THS’s game plan instead of playing their own free-flowing game. They could only gain entry into the opposition’s 22 on a few occasions and then succumbed to the pressure when they needed to make scoring happen.

The only players from Boys’ High who looked dangerous on attack were Vuyo Sindwa, who scored his side’s solitary try and captain, Kago Moleme with a few bursting runs. The lock, Thabang Mamabolo also had a good game and made some vital hits for the College defence. THS were men on a mission, though, with TK Montsho, Matthew Miller, Leon Pheto, Oratile Leokaoke and Gomolemo Manyeneng scoring tries.

‘It was a great match for the boys. We wanted it more than Boys’ High on the day and we are grateful for the win,’ said a delighted THS captain, Ntlantla Myeko, who was one of the heroes for THS and whose play on the field motivated his teammates in white.

Another motivating factor was the emotional aspect attached to the game, as Tegnies gave a fitting tribute on and off the field to their well-known principal who has given so much to rugby. It was a special moment for outgoing THS principal, Chris de Villiers, who took victory in his final Classic Clash.
De Villiers will officially retire in June, having spent 25 years in the hot seat at the school.

‘I have been on both sides of the coin and it is always better to be on the winning side. I am humbled by this victory. Only our first teams won today and I must congratulate Boys’ High on their junior teams that won today. This first team’s victory is a fantastic farewell present, though. I congratulate and thank the coaches for all their hard work and the values of sportsmanship they have instilled in our players,’ he said.

Final results:
Rugby
u.14 – Boys’ High wins 42–7
u.15 – Boys’ High wins 53–0
u.16 – Boys’ High wins 48–0
Second team – Boys’ High wins 22–10
First team – THS wins 28–7
Soccer
u.16 – 2–2 draw
First team – THS wins 4–3.