On day two of the FNB U18 Craven Week at Middelburg, Western Province dazzled with an incredible 80-18 win, while the Sharks powered to a strong 41-10 victory. The Valke and Leopards battled fiercely to a thrilling 29-29 draw, showing just how fierce the competition is. Rising stars like Quintin Potgieter and Zekhethelo Siyaya lit up the field with dazzling runs and smart plays. The day was full of fast, exciting rugby that promises a bright future for South African schoolboys chasing their dreams.
What happened on the second day of the FNB U18 Craven Week at Middelburg?
The second day featured dominant performances from Western Province (80-18 win) and Sharks (41-10 win), thrilling matches like Valke vs Leopards (29-29 draw), and showcased rising talents such as Quintin Potgieter and Zekhethelo Siyaya. It highlighted evolving, high-tempo South African schoolboy rugby.
The Stage Is Set: Tradition Meets New Talent
As the cool winter dawn blanketed the fields of Hoërskool Middelburg, the air buzzed with anticipation. Young rugby players from across South Africa converged for the second day of the FNB U18 Craven Week, ready to etch their names into the annals of a competition famed for producing future Springboks. The sense of occasion was unmistakable—nervous energy mingled with excitement, while the stands filled with supporters, scouts, and proud families. For many, Craven Week is more than just a tournament; it’s a rite of passage that bridges regional pride and national ambition.
Over the decades, Craven Week has become a proving ground for those with dreams of rugby greatness. Its atmosphere combines fierce rivalry with camaraderie, as every player knows that one inspired performance might alter the trajectory of their career. The event’s legacy is impossible to ignore—legends like Francois Pienaar, Bryan Habana, and Damian Willemse first made their mark on these very fields. The knowledge that greatness may be waiting in the wings adds an extra layer of drama to every contest.
As the day’s matches got underway, the established powers in South African schoolboy rugby sent a clear signal: the old order remains very much alive. The defending champions, DHL Western Province, wasted no time in demonstrating why their blue-and-white stripes evoke respect and even awe. Their matchup against Sanlam Boland became a showcase of skill, teamwork, and ruthless execution, captivating all who bore witness.
Western Province: A Masterclass in Excellence
The encounter between Western Province and Sanlam Boland quickly transformed into a spectacle of attacking rugby. Western Province, renowned for their depth of talent and structured play, left little doubt about their intentions. Their performance bordered on the sublime, as they dismantled the Boland defense and posted a staggering 80-18 result—a scoreline as emphatic as any in Craven Week history.
Central to this triumph stood No. 8 Quintin Potgieter. Potgieter’s hat-trick of tries reflected a blend of raw power and keen rugby intelligence. With every run, he found space where others saw congestion, broke tackles with purpose, and celebrated each try with infectious enthusiasm. Observers couldn’t help but think of past greats—Pierre Spies and Bobby Skinstad—whose journeys to stardom began on these very pitches. Potgieter’s display served as both an individual highlight and a testament to the Western Province development system.
Flyhalf Ethan van Biljon provided the finishing touches that turned Western Province’s dominance into a rout. His calm demeanor belied the high-pressure environment, and he accumulated 15 points from the tee with accuracy and composure. Each kick sailed through the posts with precision, showcasing the technical standards demanded within the Western Province setup. Van Biljon’s ability to control the tempo and direction of play made it clear that the province’s long-standing rugby traditions remain in safe hands.
Although Western Province’s success might seem predestined, their continued reign is the product of relentless preparation and a culture of excellence. The squad’s cohesion and tactical awareness spoke volumes about the systems in place, and their 14 tries in a single match underscored both individual brilliance and a collective commitment to attacking rugby. Their approach, much like an intricate work of art, relied on every player contributing to the overall masterpiece.
New Contenders and Unpredictable Battles
While Western Province reaffirmed their authority, other teams seized the moment to redefine their futures. The Sharks High School team, perennial contenders, delivered a dynamic and spirited display against Eastern Province, ultimately securing a 41-10 victory. This result signaled not just a win, but a statement of intent from a side eager to shake up the established hierarchy.
The turning point arrived shortly after the interval, when fullback Zekhethelo Siyaya—already recognized as a 2024 SA Schools star—seized the spotlight. Collecting the ball deep in his territory, Siyaya accelerated past defenders, unfurling a breathtaking run that ended with a try every bit as electrifying as it was audacious. His effort ignited the crowd and demonstrated his ability to change a match through sheer individual brilliance. Siyaya’s fearless play embodied the spirit of risk and creativity permeating the new generation of players.
As the match wore on, replacement back Nathan Aneke added two more tries, cementing the Sharks’ superiority and underlining their depth. Their victory, achieved through both flair and discipline, suggested that the Sharks have successfully blended fresh ideas with traditional strengths. The message was clear: innovation and bravery can propel any team into the spotlight, even amidst seasoned rivals.
Earlier in the day, the Valke and Leopards produced a classic display of Craven Week drama, with a 29-29 draw reflecting the fierce competitiveness at every level. Tiaan Koen, Valke’s industrious No. 8, scored a late try to ensure both teams shared the honors. The match captured the essence of the tournament—intensity, respect, and the sense that every side has the potential to surprise.
Elsewhere, Border surged in the second half to overcome Suzuki Griquas, a victory forged through superior fitness and tactical adaptation. The scoreline only hinted at the true nature of the contest, which saw both sides wrestle for momentum and test each other’s resolve at the breakdown. In the end, Border’s ability to raise their game when it counted made the difference, highlighting the fine margins that often define Craven Week encounters.
Embracing Change: A New Era in Schoolboy Rugby
Across all four matches, a total of 39 tries lit up the scoreboard, offering a window into the evolving nature of South African schoolboy rugby. Where the game once prioritized set-piece dominance and territory, a noticeable shift towards expansive, high-tempo rugby has taken hold. Today’s coaches urge their charges to play what’s in front of them—to seek width, exploit space, and take calculated risks. The echoes of classic All Black and French rugby philosophies can be felt in the willingness to attack from anywhere on the field.
This cultural transformation rewards creativity as much as physical strength. Players now feel empowered to trust their instincts and improvise, producing moments of magic that linger in the memories of spectators. For parents, coaches, and scouts lining the touchlines, every match is an opportunity to identify the next generation of stars—those with the courage to lift their game under pressure and the skill to shine when it matters most.
As dusk approached and conversations turned to the next day’s fixtures, the undercurrent of excitement remained palpable. The Limpopo Blue Bulls prepared to face the Griffons in the early game, followed by a much-anticipated clash between the Golden Lions and South Western Districts—both undefeated so far. These matchups promised fresh storylines, as each team chased the dream of hoisting the coveted trophy—a symbol of honor, achievement, and the spirit of South African rugby.
More Than a Tournament: The Heart of Craven Week
Beyond the stats, results, and on-field heroics, Craven Week endures as a celebration of growth, sportsmanship, and community. For countless players, this event represents their first encounter with national attention and the pressure that comes with it. Coaches and mentors emphasize the values of humility, discipline, and fair play, reminding their teams that rugby demands not just physical prowess but mental sharpness and emotional maturity.
Much of the magic exists in the quieter moments—the laughter in the team bus, the rituals before kickoff, and the shared meals that strengthen bonds. These experiences, often overlooked, play a crucial role in shaping young athletes for life beyond the field. The friendships forged, lessons learned, and memories created become just as significant as any try scored or match won.
The second day at Middelburg didn’t simply underline the dominance of traditional powers; it reignited the essence of South African rugby—a blend of heritage, innovation, and hope. The exuberance and skill on display offered a glimpse into a future that promises to be both familiar and refreshingly new. As the tournament continues, it’s clear that Craven Week remains a cherished tapestry, woven from countless dreams, rivalries, and moments of inspiration.
What were the standout results on the second day of the FNB U18 Craven Week at Middelburg?
The second day featured some impressive performances, most notably Western Province’s dominant 80-18 victory over Sanlam Boland and the Sharks’ commanding 41-10 win against Eastern Province. Additionally, the Valke and Leopards played out an intense 29-29 draw, showcasing the competitive spirit of the tournament. Overall, a total of 39 tries were scored across four matches, highlighting the attacking flair on display.
Who were the key players to watch during day two?
Two rising stars made a significant impact: Quintin Potgieter of Western Province, who scored a hat-trick of tries demonstrating power and rugby intelligence, and Zekhethelo Siyaya from the Sharks, known for his electrifying runs and creativity. Both players exemplify the exciting talent coming through South African schoolboy rugby and have already caught the attention of scouts and rugby enthusiasts.
How does Western Province’s performance reflect their rugby culture?
Western Province showcased a masterclass in excellence with a well-structured, attacking style that overwhelmed their opponents. Their ability to score 14 tries in a single match underlines the depth and cohesion within their squad. Players like flyhalf Ethan van Biljon added composure and precision, especially with his 15 points from kicking. Their performance reflects a long-standing culture of preparation, tactical awareness, and a commitment to expansive rugby.
What does the draw between Valke and Leopards tell us about the competition level?
The 29-29 draw between Valke and Leopards illustrated the fierce competitiveness and unpredictability of Craven Week rugby. Both teams fought intensely until the final moments, with Valke’s Tiaan Koen scoring a late try to secure the draw. This result emphasizes that every team in the tournament has the capability to challenge the established powers and that no match can be taken for granted.
How is the style of play evolving in South African schoolboy rugby?
There is a clear shift toward high-tempo, expansive rugby that encourages creativity and calculated risk-taking. Coaches promote attacking options that seek to exploit space and width rather than relying solely on set-piece dominance. This evolution mirrors some of the classic styles seen in international rugby, such as those from the All Blacks and French teams, and is producing exciting, unpredictable matches that captivate fans and scouts alike.
Why is Craven Week considered more than just a rugby tournament?
Craven Week is regarded as a rite of passage that blends tradition, community, and personal development. Beyond the on-field action, it fosters sportsmanship, discipline, and camaraderie among young players. The event serves as a formative experience where friendships are formed, life lessons are learned, and many players receive their first exposure to national rugby pathways. It remains a cornerstone event in South African rugby, celebrated for its rich history and its role in shaping the future of the sport.
