Gemmies playing for pride and aim to go down fighting

Following a bruising 61-34 defeat to FNB UFH at Sukuzi Stadium, FNB SPU now turn their attention to a daunting away fixture against log leaders FNB Wits, a clash that could define how their 2026 FNB Varsity Shield campaign is ultimately remembered. The Kimberley side are currently bottom of the log without a win and face a relegation playoff if they remain there.

The loss to FNB UFH exposed both the fragility and youthfulness within the Gemmies setup. After a blistering start that saw FNB SPU race into an early lead, the match quickly unravelled under sustained pressure, defensive lapses, and costly individual errors.

The University of Fort Hare was clinical in their execution, and they were able to capitalise on the big momentum shifts within the game.

This was highlighted when we witnessed one of the tries of the Varsity Shield when FNB UFH’s fullback Ukho Nomsatha dotted down after a mesmerising run from a missed placed kick to find touch, the kick landed in his hands and as the saying goes “the rest was history”.

Despite the loss, SPU left wing Raees Sahabodien remained honest but hopeful. He admitted that team morale is “at an all-time low,” but believes this moment could help the team reset and come back stronger.

“When the chips are down, that’s when the dog is at its most dangerous,” he said. “We see this as a chance to reset and move forward.”

His comments reflect a squad in transition. A youthful roster, with many players fresh out of high school, has brought energy but also inconsistency. The inexperience has manifested in decision-making under pressure, particularly in defensive structures and breakdown management.

Compounding this has been a spate of injuries in key positions, further destabilising continuity.

Yet there are clear positives. When SPU stick to their attacking style, they’ve shown they can play exciting, high-quality rugby. Their strong start against UFH is proof of their potential.

The challenge now is translating that potential into sustained performances something they will need in abundance against a Wits side currently in peak form. Playing away adds another layer of complexity, with Wits boasting both confidence and cohesion at this stage of the competition.

Still, Sahabodien remains defiant:

“For us, it’s about showing up and wanting it more,” he said

For SPU, this match is about more than just points it’s a chance to show character, fight, and growth and as sport often proves, a wounded team can be a dangerous one.

By: Bradford Petersen