Sydenham and Marist Albion meet in Metro Club Rugby Showpiece

Sydenham and Marist Albion will battle for club rugby supremacy on Sunday, as the two sides meet in this year’s Canstaff Metro Premier final.

Marist Albion are on the lookout for back-to-back titles, while Sydenham have the chance to break a dry run that stretches back to 1999, the club’s last title. 

The men from the foot of the Cashmere Hills have certainly given themselves the best possible chance, securing The Canstaff Cup as top team after round robin.  

Following a loss to Lincoln University in the first preliminary final, Sydenham have turned to grinding out wins on their way to the decider, defeating HSOB in an extra time thriller in the rain and working their way past New Brighton at Rawhiti Domain. 

It’s a winning mentality that Head Coach Ben Rhodes believes will set his side up well ahead of this weekend’s final test. 

“We had a few close calls throughout the regular season and we continued to be able to get past those,” said Rhodes. “The boys rallied together both then and subsequently in the playoffs and we’ve bounced back really well each time under pressure” 

“The close games the last couple of weeks have certainly provided the lads with some confidence and belief in their abilities as a group before we head into the weekend.” 

That confidence and belief has swept through the club too, with a large contingent of ‘old boys’ set to be on the bus this weekend, with the club putting on transport from their clubrooms at the Cashmere Club. 

“The excitement has been building at the club over the last few weeks, firstly with the Cup and now this finals run. Not a lot of people have experienced this before so we’re certainly looking forward to it.” Rhodes said. 

Marist Albion on the other hand is becoming regular campaigners, with this weekend’s final set to be their third in a row.  

Captain Elliot Smith is one of those to have played in the last two finals and is proud of where the club now sits. “We’re super proud of making the final this year and the last few years. Some players don’t get to make a final, so to make three in a row is pretty special and a great testament to what everyone in the club has been through.” said Smith. 

“Sydenham are obviously a quality side, finishing on top of the round robin, so we know how dangerous they can be. They’ve got a very talented squad from 1 to 22 and they’ll be gunning for the result on Sunday.” 

“We’ve been on both sides of the coin, winning one and losing one over the last couple of years, but we’re looking forward to getting out on Rugby Park and ideally getting the job done, which has been a goal of ours all year.” Smith added.  

“Rugby Park is a special place to play with a great atmosphere, so we’re excited to get back out there on Sunday!” 

Refereeing the final is George Haswell, who will be assisted by Daniel Moore and Richard Mortimer. Kick off is scheduled for 2:45pm, with the match to be livestreamed on the Canterbury Rugby Facebook page.