Progress’ hopes of clinching a berth in the EPRU Grand Challenge Top 12 club rugby competition were left hanging in the balance after they were pipped 33-31 by Harlequins on Saturday.
The narrow win enabled Harlequins to retain their unbeaten home record at the Adcock Stadium and entrenched their position at the top of the log with only one round of league matches remaining before the quarterfinals on September 5.
The powerhouse EP side are facing a crucial game on Saturday against struggling Hankey Villagers at the Central Field in Kariega that could decide their fate.
There are, however, doubts the match will take place after Villagers said they could not travel to Alexandria to face Trying Stars on Saturday because of financial constraints.
In a letter to EP Rugby, Villagers said: “On behalf of Hankey Villagers, we would like to express our sincere appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the 2026 Top 12 Grand Challenge competition.
“It has been a privilege for our club to be part of this prestigious tournament.
“Unfortunately, due to severe financial constraints currently facing our club, we regret to inform you that we are unable to travel to Alexandria to fulfil our scheduled fixture against Trying Stars on Saturday, August 22.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly.
“Regrettably, our outstanding debt with our transport service provider has reached a level where transportation services can no longer be provided without upfront payment, which the club is presently unable to accommodate.
“We deeply regret the circumstances and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this situation may cause to EPRU, Trying Stars Rugby Club, match officials, supporters, and all other stakeholders involved.
“We respectfully request that EPRU consider the exceptional financial challenges facing our club and not interpret this unfortunate situation as a deliberate abandonment of the fixture.
“Our commitment to rugby and our participation in EPRU competitions remain unwavering, and we remain hopeful that our financial position will improve to allow us to continue competing effectively.
“We appreciate your understanding and consideration during this difficult period.”
The top eight clubs qualify for the playoffs, and Progress are locked in a battle with Brumbies and Joubertina to make the cut.
The log with matches played in brackets is: Harlequins 59 (15), Kruisfontein 53 (15), Gardens 51 (15), Trying Stars 46 (15), Park 43 (14), Jeffreys Bay 41 (15), Joubertina 37 (15), Progress 37 (14), Brumbies 37 (13), NMU Madibaz 35 (15), Hankey Villagers 14 (14), Star of Hope 13 (15).
Brumbies boosted their playoff hopes when they beat bottom of the log Star of Hope 34-17 in Makhanda on Saturday.
Kruisfontein United retained their place at No 2 on the log when they drew 21-21 against champions Gardens at the Derrick Ferreira Stadium in Kariega.
Park stayed on track for a playoff berth thanks to a crucial 26-5 win over Joubertina United at Londt Park.
Another team heading for the quarterfinals are Jeffreys Bay, who beat the NMU Madibaz 36-33.
On the joint table, drawn up to include both groups, the eventual quarterfinal lineup will be: No 1 v No 8, No 2 v No 7, No 3 v No 6 and No 4 v No 5.
Saturday’s fixtures (all 3.30pm kickoffs):
Top 12 (odd numbers): Brumbies v Park, Kruisfontein United v Star of Hope, Joubertina United v Gardens. Top 12 (even numbers): NMU Madibaz v Trying Stars, Progress v Hankey Villagers, Harlequins v Jeffreys Bay.
Middle 12 (odd numbers): African Bombers v Kwaru, Despatch Oostelikes v Kirkwood, Born Fighters v Spring Rose. Middle 12 (even numbers): Motherwell v Evergreens, United Barbarians v Suburban, Central v Missionvale.
Bottom 12 (odd numbers): Klipfontein v Adelaide Rangers, Middelburg Eagles v Police-Crusaders, Kareedouw Tigers v Helenvale. Bottom 12 (even numbers): Windvogel v Middelburg Excelsior, Orlando Eagles v Despatch, Lily White v St Marks.
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