The grand finale of the schoolboy rugby season brings us one of the most anticipated matchups in South African rugby: Paul Roos versus Grey College. This rivalry is more than just a game—it’s a tradition steeped in history, pride, and passion.

Paul Roos, known as the “maroon machine,” last celebrated victory over Grey College in 2022 on their home ground. As they prepare for the 2024 encounter, the anticipation in Stellenbosch is palpable. The town comes alive as old boys return from all corners of the globe, eager to relive the camaraderie and competition that define this storied event. From the golf courses to the pubs, the spirit of rivalry infuses every corner of the weekend.

The festivities begin with a prestigious auction and dinner on Thursday night, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable few days. Although both teams will be missing key players due to the SA Schools setup, the depth of talent ensures that those stepping into the spotlight will carry the same level of pride and determination.

This game is the final outing of the season for both teams, and the players are prepared to give their all in pursuit of victory. Every moment on the field will be charged with emotion as they push themselves to the limit, knowing this is their last opportunity to make a mark.

Since their first meeting in 1967, Paul Roos and Grey College have faced each other 38 times. Grey College has claimed 29 wins, while Paul Roos has secured 9 victories. In 57 years, there has never been a draw, highlighting the fierce competition that defines this rivalry.

As the teams take to the field at Markotter, the excitement among the Stellenbosch faithful is palpable. Will they see the “Jolla Bolla” celebration return after another hard-fought Grey College game? One thing is certain—this match will leave a lasting impression, capping off a season filled with unforgettable moments.

Get ready for a rugby experience that goes beyond the game itself, where history, pride, and passion come together in a battle for glory. This is Paul Roos versus Grey College—schoolboy rugby at its finest.

Results down the years:

 

Year Grey PR
1967 22 3
1974 24 0
1977 20 10
1988 16 9
1989 28 7
1990 17 9
1991 3 20
1992 20 6
1993 8 28
1994 29 31
1995 21 10
1996 18 10
1997 8 12
1998 23 15
1999 29 26
2000 42 13
2001 15 6
2002 19 8
2003 18 17
2004 24 23
2004 18 21
2005 16 11
2006 11 16
2007 40 14
2008 47 15
2009 3 9
2010 41 29
2011 36 35
2012 33 23
2013 40 8
2014 25 20
2015 12 19
2016 34 32
2017 30 28
2018 28 26
2019 51 28
2022 19 34
2023 28 20
Avg Score
24 17

 

Paul Roos Season So Far:

 

Date Opp For Against
2024/03/16 HTS Drostdy 73 10
2024/03/23 Affies 30 25
2024/03/26 Waterkloof 47 24
2024/04/13 Rondebosch 38 17
2024/04/20 HJS Paarl 25 10
2024/04/27 Grey PE 21 7
2024/05/02 Monument 29 27
2024/05/04 Maritzburg College 48 0
2024/05/11 SACS 28 10
2024/05/18 Paarl Gim 23 17
2024/05/25 Wynberg BHS 50 25
2024/07/20 Bishops 42 7
2024/07/27 Stellenberg 23 3
2024/08/03 Boland Landbou 59 20

 

Paul Roos is enjoying one of their best seasons in recent years, remaining undefeated in all 14 games so far. They’ve claimed victories over top-tier teams like Affies, Paarl Gim, and Paarl Boys, and now have their sights set on Grey College to complete an unbeaten season.

 

Grey College Season So Far:

 

Date Opp For Against
2024/02/24 Trio 40 3
2024/03/02 Welkom Gim 52 5
2024/03/22 KES 51 16
2024/03/25 Jeppe 19 22
2024/04/13 Outeniqua 92 3
2024/04/20 Paarl Gim 29 27
2024/04/27 Selborne 36 7
2024/05/02 Maritzburg College 46 0
2024/05/04 Garsfontein 38 10
2024/05/11 HJS Paarl 40 28
2024/05/18 Affies 31 27
2024/05/25 Monument 87 19
2024/07/20 Grey PE 41 27
2024/08/03 Oakdale 31 22

 

Grey College faced a minor setback early in the season with a loss to Jeppe, but they quickly bounced back, delivering a crushing 92-3 win against Outeniqua the following weekend. Their only significant challenges since then came from Paarl Gim and Affies, while they comfortably secured victories in their other matches.

 

Catch all the action live from the Markotter Field in Stellenbosch on SuperSports Schools Channel 216 (DSTV) or the SuperSport Schools App. Kickoff is at 15:00.

 

Netball

Bloemhof vs Oranje at 11:10, 3 August, on SuperSport Schools Channel 216

 

ENDS

MEDIA RESOURCE:

Issued by Terras Communications on behalf of the Sportsmans Warehouse Premier Interschools.

Lauren Terras

+27 (0)82 785 2644

lauren@terrascomms.com

www.terrascomms.com

TOURNAMENT RESOURCE:

Robert Blair

Chief Operating Officer: Premier Interschools Pty Ltd.

T+27 (0)79 588 3703

robbie@premierinterschools.co.za

About The Tournament:

Premier Interschools is a series of 12 rugby & netball matches, which feature the highest profile and most traditional interschool rivalries from South Africa’s top rugby & netball schools, which are broadcast live on SuperSport from April to August.

 

School sport has served as one of the cornerstones of the South African sporting landscape dating back more than a century, and true to its slogan “Honouring Heritage. Playing for the Future”, Premier Interschools is about history, heritage and tradition. The series, now in its eleventh year, is expected to grow even stronger.

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