FNB Varsity Cup
FNB UFS Shimlas are confident they have sharpened aspects of their game that needed to be addressed ahead of the 2023 FNB Varsity Cup.
This after topping the log after the round-robin matches but stumbling when it mattered the most in the semi-final against FNB UP Tuks who went on to be crowned the 2022 Varsity Cup champions.
2022 season - Played 10, Won: 7, Lost: 3. Log position: 1st / Lost in semi-final to FNB UP Tuks (21-29)
UFS coach André Tredoux says they learned a lot from their experience last year. “The takeaway from last year is that we want to be a bit more adaptable in terms of tactics. The players need to be able to adjust to any circumstances.”
Shimlas have lost several key players, but the team will be able to count on the valuable experience gained by influential captain Thabang Mahlasi and fleet-footed fullback Litha Nkula after they signed contracts with the Cheetahs.
While neither enjoyed game-time at the professional outfit, a lot was learnt and both are still eligible to play in the Varsity Cup.
There is always room for improvement and Tredoux feels that it’s the finer details that needed a bit of honing. He says better communication and decision-making is important.
“We've also been working hard on our principal five and six, in terms of our decision-making and communication. The players are keen to get going and we are looking forward to a great competition.”
The FNB UFS Shimlas kick-off their season in the opening game of the tournament against the defending champs FNB Tuks on 20 February and will no doubt be looking for revenge.
