Marlborough grassroots rugby kicks off on Saturday, with seven teams signed up to do battle in the senior A competition.
The tussle for the top spot in what was previously known as division two is likely to be closely-fought.
The Renwick ‘Mud Dogs’ have taken out the title in the previous two seasons, downing Waitohi on both occasions, in Picton in 2023 and at home in Renwick last year.
The Tohis, stung by consecutive tumbles at the final hurdle, are motivated to change the pecking order in 2025.
They have put together a solid mix of experience and youth, luring a few former premier players into the fold with a view to producing some silverware for the seaside club.
“The Green Machine” will have other ideas though. Renwick are a formidable unit, possessing a solid core of seasoned players who are well versed in winning big matches. As with most of the grassroots teams, they will rely considerably on their vociferous hometown support to get them through the close matches.
And it won’t be just Waitohi who are hunting down the reigning champs.
Awatere have also put together a handy unit and are intent on making “Car Horn Valley” a particularly tough place for visiting teams to succeed at. Consistency will be the key for the Tussocks.
Harlequins have picked up a few new players and will be keen to make a strong start and avoid injuries to key players, thereby building confidence and maintaining momentum throughout the season.
The Central Blues have been close over the past few seasons, their predominantly youthful side always a threat at home or away.
Pelorus had a tough time last year, forced to default at one stage, but have better numbers this time around and the Bojacks will be hoping to spring an upset or two.
Moutere are an unknown quantity. The Magpies struggled for numbers in the lead-up but have called in some former players, plus a few youngsters, and will be as competitive as usual.
The first-round draw sees a Lansdowne Park No 1 double-header, Harlequins hosting Waitohi in the early game at 1.15pm, then Central welcoming Moutere at 3pm.
The other match sees Renwick travel to Havelock to take on Pelorus, with a 2pm kick-off. Awatere have the first-round bye.
