FNB TUT have their backs against the wall in their quest to advance to the knockout stage of the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield competition.
Captain Jandré van Zyl says his side will need to fight to stay in contention.
“The season hasn’t been going according to plan, there were a few bumps in the road but I feel our biggest work so far is being able to execute better. We are creating chances but we just can’t get over the try line.
“(Reaching) the playoff is in our hands and (we can) not rely on other teams to lose some games. At this point, we are focusing on what we can control and that is the next three games.
“I am confident that the guys will go out and fight because that is what we need to do now to keep the playoff hopes alive. We have to fight so we won’t be in the uncomfortable talks about relegation.”
The Vikings are currently occupying the sixth spot on the log, level on points with fourth-placed FNB WSU, fifth-placed FNB UKZN and FNB CPUT in seventh place.
TUT still have games left against log-leaders and Pretoria neighbours FNB UP-Tuks, FNB Madibaz and former champions FNB UFH. Van Zyl says there is still a lot left to play for.
“Madibaz and Tuks are good, but this week’s preparation has been really good and confidence in the camp is solid. The playoffs are reachable and that’s what we are preparing for, we need that execution. My eyes are on the Madibaz (on Friday), we don’t want to look too far in the future. I feel comfortable and confident about Friday.”
by Lehlogonolo Ditshego
