Ixias out to upset rivals Shimlas in Bloem derby

The FNB CUT Ixias are determined to claim their first win of the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup on Monday night and in doing so, cause an upset against their bitter city rivals, the FNB UFS Shimlas. The Ixias have endured a tough start to their campaign, suffering a home defeat to the NWU Eagles before being heavily beaten by defedning champs the Ikey Tigers in round 2.

That said, when it comes to facing the FNB UFS Shimlas, no extra motivation is required. The Ixias always back themselves against their “big brothers” - a team they have beaten before as the underdogs.

Captain and hooker Tokelo Ntaopane said one thing his side certainly possesses is character, and he believes that will come to the fore.

“It was definitely a tough start for us as a group, especially in those two games against the Eagles and UCT. But the team has a lot of character,” said Ntaopane.

“What excites me most about this team is the fight. We’ve got a young squad with a real hunger to learn and plenty of room for improvement. The character each player shows and the willingness to keep coming back for more is special.”

“We fight for one another, for the team, and especially for the CUT community. No matter what has happened in previous seasons, the supporters keep showing up in numbers - that’s no lie.”

Looking ahead to Monday’s clash, Ntaopane added that the Ixias are eager to rock the boat and create their own legacy in front of their passionate home crowd.

“The gents are excited for the Bloem derby. It’s a big one. From the start of the year, we’ve spoken about making history, and with what we’ve learned and been through, the boys are ready.

“Playing at home with our crowd and the support from management and the CUT community makes it even more exciting. It’s going to be a great game.”

Monday night’s derby between the FNB CUT Ixias and FNB UFS Shimlas - which promises to be a humdinger at the CUT Stadium - kicks off at 19:00.

Tickets and log HERE.