Ixias will go up against the Orange Army of the University of Johannesburg in the opening match of the tournament.

The side from Bloemfontein was one of the surprise packages in the tournament last year, and they expect more of the same.

The coach of the Ixias, Pieter Bergh, told OFM Sport that due to the nature of this years’ tournament there will be upsets.

“This year with three games in a week, a few days off, three more games, and so on for a total of nine games in the space of five weeks is going to be challenging for the players and coaches.

“I expect a lot of close games, I expect one of two upsets because I don't think that it is possible to be at your best in every match. Especially if you start rotating players, lose continuity and you start getting injuries.”

The Ixias and UJ lock horns at 17:00 on Sunday afternoon.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport