FNB NWU Eagles locked in for home semi-final showdown against Maties

The FNB NWU Eagles are sharpening their focus as they prepare for a crucial FNB Varsity Cup semi-final against Maties at the Fanie du Toit sports ground on Monday.

The Eagles earned the home tie after a strong win over FNB UCT Ikeys in their final log fixture on Monday. Unbeaten at home this season, they now return to familiar ground where crowd energy has played a key role in their campaign.

Head coach Burger van Westhuizen revealed team is keeping things calm and controlled despite the pressure of knockout rugby.

“There’s work to be done and we need to prepare as well as we can. If you’re well prepared, it’s easier to handle a semi-final,” he said.

Rather than getting caught up in emotion, Van Westhuizen wants his players to embrace the occasion.

“It’s something they must enjoy and understand they are part of something big that not every player gets to experience.”

The mood in the Eagles camp remains upbeat, with the squad working to fix small issues identified earlier in the week.

“We’ve worked hard on a few things and the guys are looking forward to it. Preparations are going well, analysis done, sessions lined up, all ready to go,” he said.

Captain Stephan Kruger says excitement is building but insists the team is not getting ahead of itself.

“We are excited for the semis, but as a team I still feel that there is a lot we need to work on,” he said.

With confidence high and home support behind them, the Eagles will be aiming to turn preparation into performance and take one step closer to the final.

By: Sibusiso Edward Moledi