Ereklasse Weekend Round-Up: Rotterdam Dominate as Haagsche Get Revenge on ’t Gooi

It was a weekend of high drama in the Ereklasse, with reigning champions ’t Gooi suffering a crushing defeat at the hands of Haagsche, while Rotterdam continued their rampant form with yet another demolition job. Elsewhere, Oisterwijk and Diok played out a tightly contested match, and Breda fell agonizingly short against Castricum.

Haagsche Get Their Revenge in Style
Last season’s Ereklasse final was a different story, but Haagsche RC made sure there was no repeat of ’t Gooi’s triumph as they ran riot in a stunning 55-12 victory. From the outset, Haagsche dominated the collisions, controlled possession, and turned pressure into points with ruthless efficiency. ‘t Gooi, so often the architects of their own success, simply had no answers as Haagsche played near-perfect rugby to lay down a serious marker for the rest of the season.

Rotterdam Ruthless in 75-Point Rout
If anyone doubted that Rotterdam RC are the team to beat this season, their 75-12 thrashing of Haarlem should put those doubts to rest. Rotterdam were relentless from the kickoff, running in try after try with a clinical display of attacking rugby. Haarlem, to their credit, never stopped fighting, but they were completely outclassed by a Rotterdam side that is looking every bit like potential Ereklasse champions.

Diok Edge Past Spirited Oisterwijk
Oisterwijk RC and Diok RC played out one of the most closely contested games of the weekend, with Diok coming out on top 25-13. Both teams were eager to play expansive rugby, but in a game where fine margins mattered, Diok showed the maturity and execution needed to get over the line. Oisterwijk had their moments and kept the scoreboard ticking, but Diok’s ability to convert pressure into points ultimately secured them the win.

Breda Fall Short in Nail-Biter Against Castricum 
In the closest game of the round, Castricum RC scraped past Breda RC 15-14 in a match that could have gone either way. Breda had chances to take control but lacked the finishing touch at crucial moments, while Castricum held their nerve to see out the narrowest of victories.

Eemland Power Past AAC
Eemland RC were in no mood for mercy as they dismantled AAC RC 41-5 in a one-sided affair. From the outset, Eemland controlled possession, dominated the breakdown, and took full advantage of AAC’s defensive lapses. The hosts managed a solitary try, but it was nothing more than a consolation as Eemland cruised to a commanding win.

The Dukes Prove Too Strong for Hoek van Holland 
The Dukes RC put in a dominant second-half display to overcome Hoek van Holland RC 41-21. Hoek van Holland started brightly and made The Dukes work hard for every point, but as the game wore on, the home side’s superior fitness and structured play made the difference. The Dukes ran in a series of late tries to put the game beyond doubt and take home a deserved win.

With Haagsche proving a point, Rotterdam looking unstoppable, and Diok showing their credentials, the Ereklasse is heating up as teams start to jostle for position in the league standings. Next weekend’s fixtures will be crucial as teams look to build momentum—can anyone stop Rotterdam?