Home advantage key as FNB Wits hunt first FNB Varsity Shield win

Home ground advantage in the FNB Varsity Shield can either be a gift or a curse, but FNB Wits will be hoping it works in their favour on Friday night. The Wits Blues will return to action after playing out to a pulsating 27-27 draw with FNB WSU during round one in East London.

The boys, led by coach Hugo van As, were far from their best and had to play second fiddle for most parts of the match.

“We weren’t great for the first 40 to 50 minutes, but we started well, and allowed them back in the game,” van As shared.

“They scored an intercept and a penalty try, and that put us under pressure. We had to fight our way back, and the team showed character and will.”

Wits were among the teams that benefited from the new “Tap or kick” rule after using it when they scored one of their tries.

However, it’s an innovative law that they’re still getting used to.

“It’s an interesting one, in the Varsity Cup, a couple of teams used it, and others didn’t. You have to be sensible about when you want to use it. You have to understand that it takes a lot from the team, but in the same sense, we believe we are fit, and we can handle it."

Their first home game of the season will see Wits welcome FNB UFH to town at the Wits Rugby Stadium.

Van As has identified areas they need to improve on to give their supporters something to smile about.

“We have to start better, and stay in the fight,” he added.

“With the new power play rule, you can’t allow teams to get away because you’ll play catch-up. Starting a bit better and using our opportunities is key in the coming games.”

When asked about the dangers that FNB UFH possess, the coach said: “I must be honest, from the little I have watched on them, they are a good side.

“They’ve got a good attacking play, and transition – if we are cheap with possession, they will punish us, but we just need to make sure we tick our boxes, and we should be fine.”

The clash will kick off at 19:00 at the Wits Rugby Stadium.

Log and upcoming fixtures HERE.

By: Avuyile Sawula