Hwange Diggers Rugby Academy and Victoria Falls Vikings Rugby Club played to a 5-5 draw in an exciting rugby match held at Coalfields Primary School in Hwange on Saturday, 29 August.
The match brought together rugby players from Hwange and Victoria Falls, with both teams showing determination despite the challenging conditions surrounding the game.
Hwange Diggers captain said the team was excited to play in front of its home supporters after spending some time without playing.
“It had been a while since we played in Hwange and we are expecting something better from the match,” he said.
The match also gave a young Hwange player an opportunity to compete against senior players.Under-15 player Calvin Lunga said he was happy and privileged to be given the chance to play for the senior team.
“I feel happy and privileged to be playing for the first team at my age. I started playing rugby when I was in Form One, and this is my first time playing for the senior team with adults,” Lunga said.
Lunga’s inclusion in the senior side provided an opportunity for the academy to give young players exposure and experience as they develop their rugby careers.
The Hwange Diggers team manager said there had been a noticeable improvement in the team’s performance compared to previous matches. He also reminded the players that rugby should be played with discipline and enjoyment, rather than dangerous tackles.
“The art of enjoying the game is not about dangerous tackles,” he said.
Victoria Falls Vikings arrived late for the match after experiencing challenges on the road. However, the team eventually arrived, allowing the match to go ahead.
Despite the delays, the two teams managed to produce a competitive game which ended with the scores level at 5-5.
The match was also an important opportunity for players from the two towns to gain experience and strengthen rugby development in the region.
