FNB UFH searching for turnaround to finish tough 2026 campaign with pride

It has been a difficult campaign so far for the University of Fort Hare Rugby Team in the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield season, with the side currently sitting at the bottom of the standings after a challenging start to the competition.

The UFH Blues have lost four matches so far - three at home and one away - leaving them without points on the log. Despite the results, the team has shown moments of promise, particularly in their home clash against FNB UKZN Impi where they delivered one of their strongest performances of the season but were ultimately unlucky not to come away with a victory.

With only three fixtures remaining, FNB UFH will be hoping to finish their campaign on a positive note. Two of those matches will be away from home, while their final home game will be against FNB CPUT.

The road ahead will not be easy for the Blues. Their remaining opponents are teams pushing for a place in the next round of the competition, meaning UFH will have to raise their level if they hope to collect valuable points before the end of the season.

Throughout the campaign, the Fort Hare side has continued to compete and give their best effort in every match, but they have struggled to find the consistency and rhythm needed to secure results.

One of the most anticipated fixtures still to come will be their clash with long-time rivals Walter Sisulu University Rugby Team. Rivalry matches often carry a different intensity, where form and log positions sometimes matter less than pride and determination.

When two rivals meet, the battle is often about restoring dignity and proving who wants the victory more. For UFH, that encounter could provide an opportunity to turn their season around and give supporters something to celebrate.

Before that, however, the Blues face another tough assignment when they travel to take on Sol Plaatje University Rugby Team on Friday. The match presents another chance for UFH to try and collect their first points of the campaign.

While it has undoubtedly been a frustrating season for the Fort Hare side, it has also been one filled with valuable lessons. With three games still to play, the Blues will be determined to keep fighting and finish the season with pride.

By: Thembela Tangana