Northcliff High School claimed bragging rights in style, defeating hosts Rand Park High School 29–7 in the 1st XV showpiece of this year’s winter derby.

Rand Park started with intent, applying early pressure on their opponents. Still, it was Northcliff who drew first blood, crossing the whitewash in the corner before adding a successful conversion to lead 7–0.

Northcliff grew into the game from there, their forwards beginning to impose themselves on the contest. A costly error at the back from the home side gifted Northcliff a second try, stretching the lead to 14–0 and putting Rand Park firmly under the cosh.

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The home side refused to buckle and grabbed a try just before the half-time whistle to give themselves a lifeline going into the break, trailing 7–14 and daring to believe a comeback was possible.

That belief was quickly extinguished, however, as Northcliff came out of the blocks at pace in the second half, getting a touchdown within seconds of the restart and adding the conversion to make it 19–7. From that point, the contest was effectively over, with Northcliff running out convincingly 29–7, winners by the final whistle.

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Tinnis Dierdriks, master in charge of rugby at Northcliff High School and one of the coaches of the first side, was visibly delighted after the final whistle. “It was probably one of the most enjoyable wins in a long time. We have been on top for quite a while over them, but this win is special, especially for these boys who have worked so hard.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Northcliff 1st XV celebrate after the match, Rand Park High School 1st XV make their way to the field and Northcliff 1st XV make their way to the field. Video: Nkazimulo Ncube #Randburg #Northcliff ♬ original sound Caxton Joburg North

Dierdriks was equally gracious towards the hosts, acknowledging the quality of the rivalry. “There is a never-say-die attitude with them. It is always a tough game against them.”

Rand Park first team manager Miguel Teixeira was honest in his assessment. “Northcliff came out the victors today, and they played an exceptional game. Their forwards really dominated the game up front, and we just could not seem to get front football.”

He added that the home side were, at times, their own worst enemy on the day, but paid tribute to the players who gave everything on the pitch. “Congratulations to Northcliff. Definitely the better team on the day.”

Rand Park High School principal Allan Wilke struck a broader note ahead of the multi-sport weekend, reminding both school communities of what the derby truly represents. “A derby is about more than results. It is about commitment, teamwork, resilience, and the friendships built through healthy rivalry.”

The winter derby also featured hockey and netball fixtures across the three days, with both schools celebrating the occasion as much for the community spirit it generates as for the competition on the field.

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