FNB UCT Ikeys will have to dig deep as taking on FNB UFS Shimlas in the final of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup on Monday 22 April in Bloemfontein won’t be an easy task. Kick-off is at 19:00.
This is according to fullback Duran Koevort.
"I think you can expect much of the same from us as in the semi-final (against FNB NWU Eagles), our willingness to play and go at it for the full 80 minutes.
"I think we all know the game against Shimlas will be a tough one and now playing them in a final and away from home will make it that much tougher, but Ikeys will be well prepared and come out fighting on Monday night."
This is a back-to-back final appearance for the Cape Town-based side, losing in last year’s final against the Eagles. In 2021 they stumbled at the last hurdle against FNB UP-Tuks.
Ikey Tigers’ leading points scorer Ntokozo Makhaza says the team will play to the best of their abilities.
"I wouldn’t say it will be a repeat (of last week) because Shimlas is a different team to the Eagles. We’re excited for the game. Last week was a good performance, but we think we can play better, and we want to do that on Monday."
Flanker Enos Ndiao adds that the team has done its homework and can match the standard of Shimlas.
"We have a lot of respect for them and what they’ve done in this competition. They’ve got a really good pack and quick backs so I’m sure they’ll plan well for us. We’ll look to remain patient with the ball in hand and stop their set piece.
"We just believe we’ve gone on this journey of a lot of highs in the past few years for some players and others this season. The main thing for us is although we’ve had our highs, we haven’t reached the peak which is lifting the trophy.
"Ultimately it’s been the goal, and it would be so special for us to do it this year. We know it’s not just about us but about our families, supporters and coaches and it's going to fuel us come Monday."
by Ayanda Frances Felem
