Mid Canterbury Combined face off with Christchurch Boys High School in the UC Championship today. Photo Robyn HoodThe hallowed turf of one of the country’s perennial rugby powerhouses awaits Mid Canterbury Combined today.

However both players and coaching staff are excited rather than daunted of the challenge ahead for the Combined 1st XV.

The side come face to face with Christchurch Boys’ High School on its number 1 ground today in their UC Championship round 11 matchup.

Despite only registering the one win this season, there had been plenty of positives to glean for head coach Shane Enright.

A fortnight ago they pushed competition leaders St Andrew’s to the brink, conceding a try late to go down by five.

They were well in the fight again last week against Shirley Boys before fading in the second half to lose 43-7.

“We’re still probably getting beaten on the outside,” Enright said.

“When it comes down to it, it’s probably still fitness and for us it’s just keeping those heads up.”

As far as opposition goes, it does not get much bigger for Combined than taking on Christchurch Boys in their backyard.

The school had produced dozens of professional players over the years with a total of 46 Old Boys going on to play for the All Blacks.

Combined captain Michael Hennings said the team was champing at the bit for the challenge.

“Looking forward to this one.

“Christchurch Boys have a high reputation so we’re just going to go there and give our best shot.”

Enright said it was going to be a great occasion for his troops in which none of the group had stepped foot on the revered school grounds.

“Not many people get to play on the 1st XV field,” he said.

“They’ve got a 400 man stand and it’s a great school with tradition.

“It will be a great experience.”

Schoolboy rugby will again be played behind closed doors with one spectator per player admissible.

“It’s a shame we won’t be able to go inside and have a look at the trophies and the sportspeople,” Enright said.

“That’s what you talk about when you think about culture and what history is about.”

Boy’s High remains in second spot on the UC ladder with just the two losses to STAC and Christ’s College this season.

Combined are in 12th spot ahead of Roncalli Aoraki Combined and Lincoln Combined.

Kick off at Christchurch Boys’ High is from midday.

By Adam Burns © The Ashburton Guardian - 28 August 2020