It is safe to say that the four semi-finalists for the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup have been determined with just one round remaining before the knockout phase. Defending champions FNB NWU Eagles have returned to the top of the log with FNB UCT Ikeys, FNB Maties and former log leaders FNB UFS Shimlas rounding out the top four.
Here are some of the standout players from round 6.
Aphelele Madaka (FNB NWU Eagles)
Aphelele Madaka was industrious and allowed the Eagles to attack with momentum in their victory over FNB CUT Ixias. Wasting no time at the rucks, the scrumhalf ensured that his side was always on the front foot. He was also very instrumental on defence throughout the match and up until the point he was given a much-deserved break.
High School: Hermanus High
Provincial representation: U16 Grant Khomo Week, U18 Craven Week, Provincial U19, Currie Cup (Premier and/or 1st Division).
Dewet Marais (FNB Maties)
Dewet Marais played a pivotal role for the Maroon Machine as they outmuscled FNB UFS Shimlas. The Maties eighth-man, who grew up in Bloemfontein and was schooled at Grey College, scored a hat-trick of tries. This contribution of 15 points, laid the foundation for the Maties to win the encounter and hold onto their semi-final position.
High School: Grey College
Provincial representation: U13 Craven Week, U16 Grant Khomo Week, U18 Craven Week, SA Schools, Provincial U19, Provincial U20/21, Currie Cup (Premier and/or 1st Division).
Taariq Kruger (FNB UCT Ikeys)
Taariq Kruger put in hard yards on defence and made some telling tackles in Ikeys’ runaway victory over FNB UWC. The loose forward carried the ball with much aplomb, and it needed at least two UWC tacklers to bring him down. He was instrumental in the build-up to much of the second-half tries, which included five point-of-origin tries.
High School: Durban High School
Provincial representation: U13 Craven Week, U16 Grant Khomo Week, U18 Academy Week, Provincial U20/21
Kurtley Kiewiet (FNB UJ)
Kurtley Kiewiet is the dynamic speedster from UJ. The flyhalf scored one try and converted five to give his side an extra edge over WITS. When he was not converting or scoring tries, he was found in the backline ready to help where UJ lacked.
High School: Oakdale Agricultural High School
Provincial representation: U13 Craven Week
For the next round’s fixtures, click HERE.
