Ereklasse Round-Up: Semi-Finals Confirmed After Thrilling Final Weekend
📅 17 May 2025 – The final round of the Ereklasse Men’s competition delivered drama, dominance, and a clear picture of who’s heading to the playoffs.
Despite rotating their squad, RRC (Rotterdam) finished the regular season with a perfect record, coming from behind to defeat a determined RC Eemland side 41-33 on the road. It was a statement win and reinforced Rotterdam’s dominance this season—22 wins from 22 matches and a staggering +909 point differential.
🟢 Ereklasse Semi-Final Line-Up – 24 May 2025:
- RRC 1 (1st) vs RC Eemland 1 (4th)
- Haagsche RC 1 (2nd) vs RC The Dukes 1 (3rd)
Each matchup brings its own storyline, with all four clubs capable of lifting the trophy. Here’s what to expect from each side:
🔥 RRC – Rotterdam Rugby Club (1st, 107 pts)
Undefeated. Unshaken. Unrelenting.
Rotterdam have gone the full season unbeaten, showcasing incredible depth and cohesion. Their forward pack has been a cornerstone of their success, consistently providing clean ball and setting the tone physically. Even when without star player Will Maddocks, their backs have gelled impressively. Whether dominating up front or spinning it wide, RRC are the team to beat.
⚫ Haagsche RC (2nd, 80 pts)
Last year’s finalists are back with vengeance.
Haagsche have navigated a tough season with injuries and player rotation but still finished second. With a bruising forward pack and some key players returning to full fitness at just the right time, they are peaking when it matters. Expect them to be physical, structured, and motivated to go one better after last year’s heartache against RC ‘t Gooi.
🟣 RC The Dukes (3rd, 80 pts)
The dark horses of the playoffs.
What Andy and his team have done in recent seasons is nothing short of exceptional. The Dukes bring high energy and well-drilled rugby, making them dangerous opponents. They comfortably handled BRC this past weekend with a 36-6 victory and carry strong momentum into the semis. In knockout rugby, belief and momentum can go a long way.
🔵 RC Eemland (4th, 76 pts)
Experienced, explosive, and ever-dangerous.
Eemland might have lost their final round clash, but they’ve proven their playoff credentials before. With game-breakers scattered throughout their lineup and a sharp coaching setup, they have the ability to turn any game on its head. Don’t be surprised if they find another gear in the knockout rounds.
🏉 Final Round Results – 17 May 2025
| Time | Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14:00 | AAC 1 | RFC Oisterwijk Oysters 1 | 22 – 22 |
| 15:00 | RC DIOK 1 | Cas RC 1 | 53 – 24 |
| 15:00 | RC ‘t Gooi 1 | RFC Haarlem 1 | 53 – 26 |
| 15:00 | BRC 1 | RC The Dukes 1 | 6 – 36 |
| 16:00 | RC Eemland 1 | RRC 1 | 33 – 41 |
| 16:30 | Haagsche RC 1 | RC Hoek van Holland 1 | 43 – 26 |
📊 Final Standings – Ereklasse 1e Fase (as of 18 May 2025)
| # | Team | Pld | W | D | L | Pts | PF | PA | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | RRC 1 | 22 | 22 | 0 | 0 | 107 | 1235 | 326 | +909 |
| 2 | Haagsche RC 1 | 22 | 16 | 1 | 5 | 80 | 1026 | 420 | +606 |
| 3 | RC The Dukes 1 | 22 | 17 | 0 | 5 | 80 | 821 | 448 | +373 |
| 4 | RC Eemland 1 | 22 | 15 | 1 | 6 | 76 | 734 | 400 | +334 |
(Complete standings visible in attached image.)
🗓 Mark your calendars – 24 May 2025 promises to deliver high-octane semi-final rugby across the Netherlands. Will Rotterdam complete the perfect season, or will one of the chasing pack topple the kings?
Let us know your predictions and follow all the playoff action at Dutch Rugby Magazine.
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