Brandwag and Daniel Pienaar set to duel for Kariega derby honours

After some encouraging performances by HTS Daniel Pienaar in recent years, Hoërskool Brandwag knows they face a serious challenge at Daniel Pienaar on Saturday in what has become the iconic schools’ derby in Kariega.

This latest showdown comes after the Tigers broke a decade-long streak of Brandwag dominance with a 20-13 win in 2023. Last year, the teams shared the honours, with Brandwag winning 18-5 before Daniel Pienaar triumphed 26-25 later in the year.

It promises to be another classic clash and Brandwag coach Heine Erasmus said rugby fever is building for the weekend.

“We are extremely excited to face Daniel Pienaar, especially after losing last year’s second game against them,” Erasmus reckoned.

“A total of 11 players who played that day are still in the team and they are really focused and determined to make things right.”

He admitted that playing in Daniel Pienaar’s backyard would be a test for his team, for whom Damian le Roux and Angelo Adams have been the standout players this year, while Wendall Uithaler, who scored two tries in last year’s opening game, is also in the side.

“Playing the Tigers at home is never easy. Their competitive and aggressive approach is always intimidating, but this was also the case at Marlow (whom Brandwag beat 36-31 two weeks ago),” Erasmus said.

“Our boys showed then that they could rise to the occasion, but only time will tell if this will be the case at Daniel Pienaar this Saturday.”

Brandwag has had some good results this season, mixed with a few disappointing outcomes. In the Tinara Cup, played between the three Kariega schools, they recently defeated Muir College 26-10 and will be looking to tighten their discipline as they chase a second success.

“I think our team’s discipline will need to be our main priority,” the Brandwag mentor said. “Against Muir we conceded a red and yellow card, playing for 10 minutes with only 13 players on the field. We will not be able to get away with this on Saturday.

“In addition, we will need to stay composed and stick to our structures, putting them under pressure and playing in the right areas of the field.

“The Tigers are also well known for their big pack and strong scrum. If we can hold them up front, I feel we have enough flair in our backline to run in some spectacular tries.”