Discipline key for defending champs in FNB Varsity Cup Women semi-final

The FNB UFH Women’s team have their sights set on reaching a second consecutive FNB Varsity Cup Women’s final but must go through FNB Tuks Women in one of the semi-finals on Friday.

It’s been a positive campaign for the ladies from Alice who picked up two wins in three matches and defeated FNB UJ 54-22 in their last outing.

With that win, they booked themselves a home semifinal against Tuks, and head coach, Ntyatyambo Mkhafu believes working as a unit will be crucial if they are to reach another final.

“I think if the girls are more disciplined and take instructions for us, as the coaching staff, things will go smoothly for us,” he said.

“Another important thing is for us to convert when we enter the green zones. We must play as a unit, and that way, we’ll achieve our goals.”

Mkhafu’s side defeated the same opponents in the last four last year. The only difference this time around is that they’ll have home ground advantage at the Davidson Stadium.

Mkhafu believes a big turnout could inspire his side.

“Playing against Tuks won’t be easy. We played against them in the semifinals last year, and we know they want revenge, and they want to go to the final.

“That’s why I think having our home crowd will be crucial for us. We would like for our fans to come out in full numbers. I think that would encourage the girls a lot.”

When asked what they are expecting from Tuks, the coach said: “We are expecting a tough and physical match.

“They have big and good players. The scrums will be crucial, and they are good defensively, but we’ve also worked on those areas, and we want to limit them,” he ended.

The semifinal clash between FNB UFH Women and FNB Tuks Women kicks off at 15:00.

Starting XV:

Ifikile Solontsi, Mila Wawa, Eyam Ngalo, Siphosethu Purity Ngogodo, Masie Mathangane, Thokozani Sikela, Aphiwe Nqana, Rose Haka, Sindisiwe Mbonja, Pinkie Touto, Sinekhaya Tywaleni, Lilitha Vakalisa, Siyolise Mbilase, Litha Tofu, and Inga Qongi.

Replacements:

Asemahle Mseswa, Nontlahla Cukula, Qaqamba Ndzondana, Siphelele Dlamini, Simamnkele Jolingana, Anam Jikijela, Lilitha Sapo, and Sibabalwe Jobo.

By: Avuyile Sawula