Progress start as favourites in Super 12 final against Gardens

AFTER eight weeks of fighting it out for the Eastern Cape Super 12 club rugby title, Progress will lock horns with Gardens for top honours and bragging rights at the Uitenhage Central Fields tomorrow.

Both sides started the season on a good note and managed to qualify as group winners.

While Gardens lost one game in Group A, Progress go to the encounter with a 100% record.

This is Progress' second consecutive final after their hopes were dashed last season by Harlequins who stole the final with a late penalty.

They will go into the game as favourites after dispatching every side they clashed with.

They will be hoping to go all the way this time around, but Gardens will not be bullied and will fight until the 80th minute.

Unlike in last season's campaign – when Gardens were far from convincing – they have really come to the party this season with some polished all-round performances.

The 3.30pm clash promises to be a thriller as Gardens have previously lost against Progress.

However, Gardens will be looking to stun Progress at their home ground.

Past results will count for nothing and there will be everything to play for.

African Bombers will go to war with East London Police for third place.

Police who finished third last season should be in a foul mood after missing out on qualifying for the final for a second year in a row.

They will be looking to vent their frustration on Bombers, but the Zwide side will also be looking to improve on last year's standing and claim the bronze medals.

Bombers will be aiming to make sure all the medals remain in Nelson Mandela Bay to continue with EP teams' dominance over their Border counterparts.

Meanwhile, Cell C Community Cup defending champions Gap Despatch will be looking to increase their lead at the summit of Pool A when they welcome Mossel Bay Barbarians at the WJ de Wet Stadium at 4pm.

After starting their title defence with an unconvincing victory against Spring Rose, Despatch will be looking to build on last weekend's perfect display against Bridgton.

Last weekend's 54-7 win must have given the side a much-needed confidence boost and they will be looking to continue with their winning ways as they hope to successfully defend the prestigious national title. - Mkhululi Ndamase