Poorte faces Varsity and Assupol champs in warm-ups

The Roodepoort Rugby Club first team will face two Pretoria sides in preparation for the Cell C Community Cup tournament.

Faris Sader in charge of club matters at Roodepoort Rugby Club (RRC) confirmed that two warm-up games are scheduled against Tukkies on 25 January and Centurion on 18 February – both away from home.

Tukkies won the Varsity Cup in 2013 whereas Centurion is the 2012 Assupol Club Series champions. Considering that Roodepoort is the 2013 Golden Lions champions there is no reason why these fixtures cannot be regarded as a non-official Tri Club Series.

Faris pointed out the importance of playing top sides rather than weaker opposition when preparing for a big tournament.

“What better way to prepare for the season than to play against two champions. Not only we but the university side and Centurion will benefit. Because the match is not official, rolling subs will be allowed, which will give the whole squad a go. It also will give coaches a good indication which players put up their hands.

“No game in the Community Cup will be easy so it is vital to be well prepared going into the tournament as there is a lot at stake.”

Faris said he was knocked off his feet with the turnout during the first week of pre-season training at the club when over 60 players pitched up.

“In the 13 years since I have returned to RRC from Cape Town, I’ve never seen such a turnout so early in the season. We do expect that more players will pitch up from Monday, eager to prove themselves.”

There is also reason to believe that no player is assured of his place considering that the abovementioned warm-up games serve as trials.

Training dates are on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6.30pm. All players are most welcome.

“We still are looking for many players to join our club, especially for the U/19 and U/21 squads.”

• Details: Faris Sader on 082 705 8064.