Villager set for historic championship final against long-time rivals

Considered the oldest club rivalry in the country, a Villager/Hamilton derby is always something special, but Saturday’s upcoming Western Province Rugby Football Union Super League A Top Six championship final clash between these two sides, at City Park, will be uncharted territory for both teams, says Villager manager Tom Hendry.

The Brooksiders will have their work cut out when they face their long-time rivals in what is arguably their biggest final in a long time, despite having faced off in countless derbies dating back more than a hundred years.

“I don't even know if these teams have ever faced off in a big final like this,” said Hendry, who’s been at the helm as First Team manager for four years and a member of the under-21 side that won the league in 2000.

“At the end of the day, it's history. And the clubs have a great, friendly rivalry. Many great players have played in these derbies, and we just try to honour the previous successors by doing the jersey proud,” he said.

Villager enjoyed an exceptional season, reaching several milestones not seen at the club in several years, said Hendry.

“We have played a few finals in the old Presidents Cup, but nothing compares to this SLA final,” he said, following his side’s 44-31 win in a tough encounter against Bo-Kaap outfit, SK Walmer, in last Saturday’s semi-final, at City Park.

“SK Walmer in a semi-final at City Park is no joke. We left no stone unturned. We did our homework. The SK boys played a fast, physical game, and they had the backing of 1000s of their supporters. The first half was tough with the wind, but once we turned, we were forced into our rhythm and managed to play to our strengths,” he said.

“We weathered the storm in the first half and managed to stay calm. Two quick tries in three minutes of the second half really enabled us to get the momentum we needed. The set piece started to dominate, and we started to play our brand of rugby,” he said.

Meanwhile, the mood inside the Villager camp is decidedly optimistic ahead of Saturday’s big final.

“Playing Hamilton in any game is special. We are preparing for war. Nothing will be easy on Saturday. We have managed two wins over them this year, so they will not be holding anything back. It's the oldest derby in the country, and now that it's in the SLA final, it makes it even more special,” he said.

“There are obviously nerves, but we have to prepare. The players are excited to have the opportunity, and the coaches are relishing the challenge.”