The 2023 FNB Varsity Cup has reached the business end of proceedings and at this stage, it looks like FNB NWU Eagles and FNB Maties are on their way to hosting a semi-final each. Who they’ll be playing against, is still up for the taking as only three points are separating the next four teams on the log.
Here are our standout players from round 5.
Grant de Jager (FNB Maties)
While Maties are brimming with confidence, FNB UP-Tuks are in the doldrums with the defending champions now out of the 2023 title race. Outside centre Grant de Jager, who received the Player That Rocks award, was on fire in the middle of the field. His attacking abilities led to a point-of-origin try after a 70-metre run down the field.
Matthew Fortuin (FNB NWU Eagles)
The Eagles took a big step towards reaching the playoffs for this year’s Varsity Cup, in part thanks to an inspirational performance by Matthew Fortuin against FNB CUT. The inside centre was lethal on attack and was rewarded with two well-crafted tries.
Jooste Nel (FNB UFS Shimlas)
After being expected to be on the sideline for the entire season, Jooste Nel returned to the field to put in a stellar performance against FNB UJ. Had the big Shimlas centre crossed the whitewash he would certainly have been named the Player That Rocks. He had strong ball carries, and he was also good in contact situations.
Ntokozo Makhaza (FNB UCT Ikeys)
In a comprehensive victory over FNB Wits, Ikeys’ Ntokozo Makhaza was a standout.
The winger was a thorn in the opposition’s side with his contribution of a try and five conversions, for a total points tally of 15. No wonder he felt extremely proud of his performance, saying afterwards that “my goal is to make it to the professional level”.
