Week 6 Preview: Unbeaten Haagsche vs Gooi and Dukes vs Eemland Headline a Thrillers
As we approach Week 6 of the 2025 Ereklasse season, the Dutch rugby scene is buzzing with anticipation. With only five rounds completed, the table is beginning to take shape—but this weekend promises fireworks, upsets, and perhaps a first crack in the armour of the unbeaten teams. Leading the headlines is the titanic clash between Haagsche RC and RC ’t Gooi, a fixture that could very well determine the momentum of the title race. But don’t sleep on the secondary marquee clash of the weekend: RC The Dukes vs RC Eemland, another key battle with high stakes.
The Big One: Haagsche RC vs RC ’t Gooi
Saturday’s showdown at Haagsche is already being dubbed the game of the weekend. Both Haagsche and Gooi enter this clash unbeaten, carrying the maximum 24 points from five wins. Haagsche, the defending champions, have started the season in imperious form, scoring 258 points and conceding just 37—a testament to their clinical attack and rock-solid defense. But for Haagsche, this match is more than just another weekend fixture it’s personal. Two seasons ago, RC ’t Gooi denied them glory in the final, and the champions have been eager for revenge ever since.
RC ’t Gooi, meanwhile, are no pushovers. With 229 points scored and 78 conceded, Gooi’s opening five rounds have been a statement of intent. They’ve shown a balanced game, mixing power and skill, and they have proven difficult to break down. The question on everyone’s lips: can Gooi steamroll past Haagsche on their home turf, or will the champions defend their fortress and settle old scores?
Given both sides’ current form, someone is guaranteed to drop points this weekend, and the pressure is squarely on both packs to perform under what promises to be an electric atmosphere.
Secondary Headliner: RC The Dukes vs RC Eemland
While Haagsche vs Gooi grabs the headlines, RC The Dukes vs RC Eemland is a clash that could define the top of the table in a subtler, but equally important way. The Dukes sit third, still unbeaten with 23 points, and are showing consistency in both attack and defense. Eemland, fourth with 14 points from three wins and two losses, will be looking to prove they belong among the elite and are capable of toppling one of the big three.
The Dukes will rely on structured play, strong set-pieces, and precision in execution, while Eemland’s attacking flair and willingness to take risks could see sparks fly. This match isn’t just about points—it’s about staking a claim for the championship in the long term.
Other Fixtures to Watch
- BRC 1 vs RRC 1 (15:00, Sportboulevard Wisselaar): BRC are struggling near the bottom, while RRC are mid-table. Expect a tight contest where every tackle and turnover could be decisive.
- RFC Oisterwijk Oysters 1 vs RC DIOK 1 (15:00, Sportpark de Wolfsputten): A crucial clash for mid-table pride. Both teams are hovering around the middle of the table, making bonus points particularly valuable.
- CAS RC 1 vs AAC 1 (15:30, Sportpark Wouterland): The battle at the bottom of the table. Both teams are desperate for a win to boost morale and lift themselves from the cellar.
Log Standings Snapshot
Here’s how the Ereklasse table looks heading into Week 6:
| # | Team | GW | W | V | G | Pnt | GW | GT | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Haagsche RC 1 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 24 | 258 | 37 | 221 |
| 2 | RC ’t Gooi 1 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 24 | 229 | 78 | 151 |
| 3 | RC The Dukes 1 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 242 | 79 | 163 |
| 4 | RC Eemland 1 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 14 | 124 | 90 | 34 |
| 5 | RFC Haarlem 1 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 12 | 168 | 128 | 40 |
| 6 | RRC 1 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 10 | 166 | 156 | 10 |
| 7 | RC DIOK 1 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 10 | 138 | 145 | -7 |
| 8 | RFC Oisterwijk Oysters 1 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 9 | 89 | 133 | -44 |
| 9 | RC Hoek van Holland 1 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 5 | 84 | 143 | -59 |
| 10 | CAS RC 1 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 5 | 138 | 205 | -67 |
| 11 | BRC 1 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 4 | 69 | 281 | -212 |
| 12 | AAC 1 | 5 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 40 | 270 | -230 |
The top four—Haagsche, Gooi, The Dukes, and Eemland—are clearly setting the pace, each with aspirations for the title. The middle and lower table sides are battling for survival, meaning the weekend will be full of tension, intrigue, and potentially season-defining results.
What to Expect This Weekend
Haagsche vs Gooi: Tactical, high-intensity rugby. Haagsche will assert dominance in the forwards and aim to control the tempo, while Gooi will look to exploit any defensive lapses with fast, direct running.
The Dukes vs Eemland: Expect structured play from The Dukes, but Eemland will not back down. This clash could see pivotal tries and crucial turnovers that decide the top-four dynamics for the season.
Mid-table clashes (Oisterwijk vs DIOK & BRC vs RRC): Gritty, hard-fought encounters where small details will swing results.
Lower table battles (CAS vs AAC): Vital points up for grabs. A win could provide a huge morale boost for either side.
The Ereklasse continues to deliver gripping rugby action, with rivalries, revenge stories, and unbeaten streaks on the line. With two headline clashes—Haagsche vs Gooi and Dukes vs Eemland—this weekend promises to define momentum for the remainder of the season.
Who will rise, and who will falter? All eyes will be on the top four, but don’t underestimate the fireworks elsewhere on the pitch.
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