There were a number of surprises in school matches this past weekend and some interesting contests to come as the season enters the final straight. THEO GARRUN reports.

Paarl Boys’ High beat Paarl Gimnasium 24-21 in the Paarl interschools derby which went against most predictions. Gimmies had had the more successful season heading into the game and were expected to end Boishaai’s three-match winning streak in the fixture.

But, in the nature of big derbies, things didn’t go according to plan and Boishaai streaked into a 24-7 lead before Gim came back strongly to close the gap to three points and then had Boishaai hanging on in the end.

REPORT: Boishaai win thrilling Paarl derby

There was almost a big upset in Durban when Glenwood hosted Grey College in a showdown between the No 2 and 3 teams in the land. It ended in a 25-25 draw, with Glenwood missing the late conversion that would have given them victory.

The stage is now set for the season-decider when Grey host Paul Roos Gimnasium on 18 August. Paul Roos beat Boland Landbou 15-3 at the weekend to remain unbeaten.

REPORT: Glenwood almost upset Grey College

Perhaps the biggest shock was at Parktown Boys’ High where the hosts handed Jeppe a 38-24 defeat, only Jeppe’s third of the year (they also lost to Selborne and Affies). Jeppe were without their talisman captain, SA Schools centre Muzi Manyike, who is injured, but Parktown were highly motivated and fully deserved the win.

The semi-finalists in the North Vaal Virseker Cup competition were decided at the weekend. Helpmekaar beat Monument 28-17 to finish top of the log and they will face Transvalia, who earned the bonus point they needed in their 22-20 loss to Garsfontein. Garsfontein will host Monnas in the other semi this Saturday.

REPORT: Helpmekaar hold off Monument