FNB Emeris produced a commanding performance in the FNB Varsity Cup promotion/relegation playoff, defeating Walter Sisulu University 47-22 to secure their place in the 2027 competition. The Durban-based Comets set the tone early and never looked back, racing into a commanding halftime lead before shutting the door in the second half. Emeris struck first in the 2nd minute following a slick attacking sequence, with Chris Horak slicing through the defence to score under the poles. The conversion was added to give the Comets a 7-0 lead. They doubled their advantage just three minutes later, capitalising on their forward dominance as a powerful driving maul saw Jacques Marais cross for the first of his two tries. With the conversion successful, Emeris were firmly in control at 14-0. The pressure continued to mount and in the 25th minute Chijindu Okonta delivered a moment of individual brilliance. A sharp inside step followed by a perfectly weighted grubber set up his own try, extending the lead to 19-0 despite the missed conversion. Emeris’ forwards continued to assert themselves late in the half, with another driving maul resulting in Marais grabbing his second try of the match. The successful conversion pushed the score to 26-0. There was still time for one more blow before the break, as Edward Sigauke finished off a rapid counter-attack in the final moments of the half. The conversion was added to give Emeris a commanding 33-0 lead at halftime. WSU showed improved intent after the break and were rewarded in the 47th minute when Sosulwe Mqonci crossed under the poles following a quick tap and slick handling move. However, a missed opportunity to add extras kept them trailing at 33-5. Momentum briefly swung their way, and five minutes later Ahlule Zokoza finished off a turnover move with a strong run to the line. The successful conversion reduced the deficit to 33-12 and hinted at a possible comeback. Emeris, however, quickly regained control. In the 60th minute, Christian Els went over after a well-worked offload in the build-up, with the conversion stretching the lead to 40-12. The Comets continued to pile on the pressure returning to their most effective weapon as a driving maul from a line-out resulted in Christoff Etzebeth crossing the tryline. Walter Sisulu had the final say just before the hooter as Sipho Hobosch broke from the lineout to score. WSU opted for the tap and Sipho Hobosch scored again to get the extra points. The result ensures that FNB Emeris retain their place in the FNB Varsity Cup while FNB WSU will look to regroup after falling short in their promotion bid. Scorers: FNB Emeris: (33) 47 Chris Horak , Jacques Marais (2), Chijindu Okonta, Edward Sigauke, Christian Els, Christoff Etzebeth FNB WSU: (0) 22 Sosulwe Mqonci, Ahlule Zokoza, Sipho Hobosch (2) FNB Emeris: Thabo Njapha, Jacques Marais (C), Nathi Ntuli, Garren Muller, Kuhle Mthimkhulu, Thando Luthuli, Meno Barnard, Juan Orde Steyl, Abande Mthembu, Frederick Marx, Edward Sigauke, Mambo Mkhize, Chris Horak, Denilo Jordaan, Chijindu Okonta, Andrew Davis, Christoff Etzebeth, Soso Maseko, Sinelifa Ncwana, Robert Everson, Joshua Aissing, Jayden Fortuin, Christian Els. FNB WSU: Mihlali Nohoyeka, Sokhana Pampila, Yoyisa Mahobe, Luvo Zindela, Sinentlahla Kesa, Qhayiya Makhalima, Khanaye Mbakaza, Sipho Hobosch (V), Thembela Folo, Lukhangele Tshayi (C), Sosulwe Mqonci, Bulelani Nondlwana, Axola Mtalana, Ahlule Zokoza, Isiphe Mbini, Khanyiso Mncono, Inathinkosi Mhlakaza, Buhlebenkosi Kedama, Siya Ncapayi, Lizole Hebe, Sinethemba Buhlungu, Pasco Mokoena, Sandisiwe Mkwayimba.

FNB UFH Baby Blues produced a stunning second-half comeback to edge FNB UWC 24-21 in a thrilling 2026 FNB Varsity Cup Women’s final, overturning a 14-point halftime deficit. After trailing at the break, the Baby Blues responded with renewed intensity, scoring key tries through Litha Tofu, Lilitha Ngwenze, and a late match-winner by Siphokuhle Vakele after UWC were reduced to 14 players.   FNB UWC 21-24 FNB UFH FNB UFH staged a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat FNB UWC 24-21 in a thrilling FNB Varsity Cup Women’s final at Bellville Stadium, overturning a 14-point halftime deficit to claim the title. The match began with high intensity, as both sides looked to assert early dominance. After sustained pressure, it was the Caracals who struck first, crossing over for the opening try. The Baby Blues responded with intent just minutes later, as Mila Wawa powered over for a crucial try, successfully converted to give the visitors a narrow lead. FNB UWC, however, regained control in the latter stages of the first half, with Jada Davids crossing the line and the successful conversion pushing the hosts ahead. Momentum firmly shifted when captain Amber Beukes produced a brilliant try, converted and registered as a point-of-origin score, extending the lead even further at halftime. With FNB UWC in control, the second half required something special from FNB UFH and they delivered. The Baby Blues struck early after the restart through Litha Tofu, reducing the deficit. The pressure continued to mount as Lilitha Ngwenze finished off a strong attacking passage, with the successful conversion narrowing the gap to just two points. The turning point came in the dying minutes of the game when suffered a yellow card and FNB UFH capitalised almost immediately, with Siphokuhle Vakele crossing for the decisive try to give the Baby Blues a lead. Despite late pressure from FNB UWC, FNB UFH held firm in the closing stages, showcasing resilience and composure under pressure to secure a memorable victory. At full-time, FNB UFH emerged as champions with a 24–21 win, completing a stunning comeback in a final defined by momentum swings and clutch moments. SCORERS   FNB UWC:  (21) 21 Tries:  Jada Davids; Amber Beukes (POR); Ivanche Gerritsen   FNB UFH Women : (7) 24 Tries:   Mila Wawa; Litha Tofu; Lilitha Ngwenze; Siphokuhle   FNB Player of the Match: Thokozani Sikela (FNB UFH Women)   TEAMS FNB UWC Women:   Sange Makhwezela; Jada Davids; Jessica Mare; Mivuyo Pawuli; Ivanche Gerritsen; Samukelisiwe Mjweni; Yanelisa Plaajie; Akhona Nkosi; Fatouma Yalcoue; Marli George; Asiphe Mayaba; Ronecia Gordon; Davedine March; Lee-Amber Beukes; Nandile Mvandaba. FNB UFH Women:   Mila Wawa; Aphiwe Nqana; Eyam Ngalo; Siphelele Dlamini; Qaqamba Ndzondana; Thokozani Sikela; Simamkele Jongilanga; Rose Haka; Sinekhaya Tywaleni; Inga Qogi; Cwenga Joni; Lilitha Vakalisa; Siyolise Mbilashe; Siphokuhle Vakele; Litha Tofu.

FNB UWC booked their place in the final against the UFH Baby Blues on home turf this Friday, setting up a high-intensity clash where execution and composure will be key. Heading into the final, FNB UWC have taken a measured and disciplined approach to their preparation, choosing consistency over disruption. Head coach Mervano Da Silva says the sense of normality underscores a team’s intent on not being intimidated by the occasion, the emphasis remains on shared responsibility and a clear, unified purpose. “The message has been clear; we all need to sacrifice something to help this team achieve its collective goal.” Their journey to the final has been built on consistency and mental discipline, something the coach believes has been crucial in keeping the squad grounded. “The ladies have been really good at getting back to zero and staying grounded after every match, it’s business as usual.” The coach acknowledged FNB UFH Women for their physicality and direct style of play. “You can always expect a physical encounter right till the end. They have strong ball carriers that we’ll be challenged to match for the full 80 minutes.” Rather than relying on individual brilliance, the Caracal’s strength has been rooted in collective effort, with the squad consistently improving across key moments in matches. As is often the case in finals rugby, control will be decisive, the team is fully aware of the areas that could determine the outcome. This week the atmosphere reflects a team embracing the occasion without losing focus. “The mood in the camp has been positive and focused; everyone is relishing the opportunity.” Leadership has also played a pivotal role in guiding FNB UWC Women to this point, with the captain stepping up when it mattered most. FNB Varsity Cup Women 2026 final: FNB UWC vs FNB UFH at 5pm, UWC Stadium, live on SuperSport. Get tickets HERE .   By: Mihlali Maraule

The FNB Varsity Cup Women 2026 final is set for an exciting clash as the Fort Hare Baby Blues take on the UWC Caracals this Friday following their impressive away semi-final victory over the unbeaten FNB UP-Tuks. FNB UFH Women head coach Ntyantyambo Mkhafu described the season as challenging from the outset but noted a key turning point during their round-robin clash against Tuks. It was in that match, he said, that players began to fully understand and execute the team’s style of play. Looking ahead to the final, the coach emphasized that previous fixtures served as preparation for this decisive encounter. He highlighted defence as the area that will determine the outcome. “Defence will be vital,” he said, stressing the need for improvement in that department. UFH are preparing for a tough contest against a strong UWC side known for their attacking style, particularly their dangerous backline. The coach acknowledged the threat, saying his team must be ready for a fast, running game. Despite the pressure, morale in the UFH camp is high. Reaching the final was the team’s objective from the beginning of the season, and the players are excited to have achieved that goal. Their journey reflects both determination and growth. A major strength for UFH this season has been unity within the squad. Even after losing three matches in the round-robin stages, the players remained committed to each other. The coach highlighted moments of support off the field, including players sharing boots when needed, as a sign of the strong bond and “sisterhood” within the team. For UFH to lift the trophy, discipline will be crucial. The coach emphasized the importance of being clinical in both attack and defence, limiting mistakes, and making the most of scoring opportunities, particularly from penalties. Victory in the final would be significant for the team, especially with a squad that includes many young players. It would not only validate their efforts this season but also provide valuable experience for the future. UFH will head into the final away from home determined to secure their second title, having fallen short in the 2025 final. From the start of the season, their mission has been clear, bring the trophy back home and make their supporters proud. FNB Varsity Cup Women 2026 final: FNB UWC vs FNB UFH at 5pm, UWC Stadium, live on SuperSport. Get tickets HERE .   By: Thembela Tangana

With the women's final taking place on Friday, 17 April where FNB UWC and FNB UFH will go head-to-head to see who will be crowned champions it's that time of the tournament where we cast the spotlight on the outstanding players who made their debut this season and have been nominated for the Suzuki Rookie of the Year  award! To qualify as a rookie, a player must have made their debut in the 2026 Varsity Cup Women tournament. The coaches of all 8 teams were asked to nominate three players who had the most impressive debut this season. The nomination process is weighted with first position worth three points, second position two points and third position one point. The votes were then added up and the three players with the most points are now being put to a public vote. Here are the three players who received the most nominations from the coaches for the Suzuki Rookie of Varsity Cup Women 2026. The public can now cast their votes and the winner will be the nominee with the most votes at the deadline. UPDATE: VOTING IS NOW CLOSED AND THE RESULTS OF THE POLLS AS OF 2PM ON 15 APRIL WILL DECIDE THE WINNER. Voting closes on Wednesday 15 April at 2.30pm The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the FNB Varsity Cup Women final on the 17 April where they will receive a cash prize from Suzuki. Let us know in the comments who you voted for!

With the FNB Varsity Cup Women’s 2026 final taking place on Friday 17 April it’s time to recognise the standout performers of the season. The coaches have made their selections and now the decision shifts to the public to vote for the winners of the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup Women’s Player That Rocks award, as well as the Back That Rocks and Forward That Rocks categories. With the 2026 tournament structure changing to a full season this is the first time that a public voting process has been included after all eight head coaches were invited to nominate three players per category. No coach could select a player from their own team. The nominations were ranked, with first choice earning three points, second choice two points, and third choice one point. These scores were then tallied, and the top three players in each category have been shortlisted for the public vote, which will ultimately decide the winners. The players who receive the highest number of votes by the deadline will be crowned the winners in their respective categories. Below are the finalists for the FNB Varsity Cup Women’s Overall Player of the Tournament award. The winner will receive a R10 000 cash prize, powered by FNBy. Here are the nominees for the FNB Forward That Rocks who will receive R7 500 from FNBy. Here are the nominees for the FNB Back That Rocks who will receive R7 500 from FNBy. UPDATE: VOTING IS NOW CLOSED AND THE RESULTS OF THE POLLS AS OF 2PM ON 15 APRIL WILL DECIDE THE WINNER. Voti ng closed on Wednesday 15 April at 2pm and the winners will be announced after the FNB Varsity Cup Women final on 17 April where they will receive their awards and a cheque powered by FNBy. Cast your vote in the polls above and let us know who you voted for in the comments!

FNB UP-Tuks secured their record sixth FNB Varsity Cup title with a dominant 31-3 victory over FNB NWU Eagles in the 2026 final. The season’s showpiece came down to a clash between the top two sides on the log, as FNB UP-Tuks hosted second-placed FNB NWU Eagles in a rain-soaked and fully packed Tuks Stadium. Rising to the occasion, the home side delivered a commanding performance to outclass their opponents and cap off an outstanding campaign in style. As anticipated the two titans produced a tightly contested affair from the whistle blow. It was the visitors who looked stronger, putting an early pressure on the home side. Eagles seemed to be flowing smooth in the wet turf of Tuks. Their efforts were awarded as they registered the first points on the board. MJ Mostert slotted home from the spot to grab the lead in the 18 th  minute. The Stripe Generation responded swiftly from the boot of Divan Du Toit also a three pointer. The Pretoria outfit unleashed their solid forwards and piled pressure on the NWU. The intensity paid off as Tuks were awarded a penalty try and taking the lead for the first time. The visitors had a chance to reduce the deficit on the stroke of halftime, however Mostert’s effort went wide. Tuks taking a seven-point cushion at the break. The second stanza depicted a one-sided contention as Tuks squeezed on the NWU defence and scored back to back tries to extend their tally. Andile Myeni produced a brilliant solo run to score a point of origin try before Jean Fourie pushed through the line. Both conversions missed by Divan du Toit. The experienced flyhalf redeemed himself with a 50m penalty to take Tuks to a 22-point lead. Divan du Toit went on the boot in two more kicks from the spot to seal the victory for Stripe Generation.   FNB Varsity Cup 2026 HIGHLIGHTS SCORERS   FNB UP-Tuks:  (10) 31 Tries:  Penalty try, Andile Myeni POR, Jean Fourie.   FNB NWU Eagles:  (3) 3   FNB Player of the Match:  Andile Myeni (FNB UP-Tuks)   TEAMS FNB UP-Tuks:  Buhle Mpaka, Jean Fourie, Jayd Austin, David Engongo, Duncan Blignaut, Abel Pretorius, Oelof De Meyer, Dillon Smith ©, Akha Mjawule, Divan Du Toit, Munashe Dukuswa, Christiaan Vlok, Kobus Janse van Rensburg, Andile Myeni, Hopewell Ntshangase. FNB NWU Eagles: Alethwa Buthelezi, Jordan Mcloughlin, Jason Oosthuizen, Stephan Krugel ©, Raniel Turner, Ricardo Fourie, Guhan Du Bois, Sean Roulston, Zack Serfontein, MJ Mostert, Logan Janeke, Leejay Petersen, Matthew Fortuin, Luyolo Doyi, Luan Van der Walt

VOTING IS NOW CLOSED AND THE RESULTS OF THE POLL WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE JUDGES WHO WILL COMBINE THE VOTES WITH THEIR SCORING TO DETERMINE THE WINNERS. The entries are locked in, the pom-poms have been fluffed and now it’s your turn to get involved because voting is officially OPEN for the 2026 Cheerleaders That Rock competition! The competition once again showcases the incredible energy, talent and spirit of cheerleading squads from universities competing in the FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield. Now it’s up to you to help decide which team rises to the top. While public voting adds to the excitement, it forms only part of the final score. The winners will be determined through a combination of fan votes and professional judging in collaboration with the South African Majorettes and Cheerleading Association (SAMCA). The top 3 teams will win cash prizes: 1st Place: R10 000 2nd Place: R5 000 3rd place is R2 000 Below are the university cheerleading squads that have submitted official entries. Watch their performances and cast your vote for the squad you believe deserves the title. Be sure to click “See All Options” to view the full list of universities in the poll. UWC Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry CUT Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry Emeris Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry Madibaz Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry Maties Cheerleaders That Rocks Competition Entry NWU Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry SPU Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry Tuks Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry UCT Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry UFH Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry UFS Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry UJ Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry Wits Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry WSU Cheerleaders That Rock Competition Entry UPDATE: VOTING HAS ENDED AND SCREENSHOTS OF THE RESULTS TAKEN AT 5PM ON 13 APRIL WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE JUDGES TO DECLARE THE WINNERS. With Varsity Cup and Shield fixtures having taken place nationwide, the competition remains fully virtual allowing all teams to participate equally, regardless of location, while maintaining a consistent judging standard as the competition continues to grow. Each team has submitted a high-energy cheer video, which is being assessed by a SAMCA judge. The final result will be based on a combination of judging scores and public votes. Show your support, represent your university and back the squad that brings the most energy to the sidelines. Drop your thoughts in the comments too… who’s bringing the loudest spirit this year?

The FNB NWU Eagles will face FNB UP-Tuks in the FNB Varsity Cup 2026 final on Monday at Tuks Stadium in Pretoria, following their semi-final win over FNB Maties in Potchefstroom this week. The Eagles now turn their focus to a Tuks side that finished top of the log in this year’s Varsity Cup season and will have a home advantage. The NWU rugby team goes into the final carrying confidence from their last meeting with Tuks, where they claimed a 30–22 win over them. NWU Eagles head coach Burger van der Westhuizen says his team’s approach remains unchanged despite the magnitude of the occasion. “Our preparations are no different. It’s been the last four weeks that we’ve done exactly the same, and nothing is changing that,” he said. The Eagles have been stronger at home this season, but Van der Westhuizen is not concerned about playing the final game away, even though their results on the road were inconsistent this season. “Playing the final away in Pretoria doesn't change the approach that we've had,” he said. “We just need to go there and play the best brand of rugby that we can.” Van der Westhuizen admitted that his team had faced challenges away from home earlier in the campaign but believes those matches offered valuable lessons. “We had four away games. We weren't successful, but hopefully we've learnt things on the road,” he said, adding that playing in Pretoria is “a privilege” and that Tuks “earned the right to play on their home grounds.” Looking ahead to the final, Van der Westhuizen told Varsity Cup that lifting the trophy would be a special moment for the entire NWU community. “It will mean a lot for us to lift the trophy. That's what you're working for,” he said. “It will mean a lot to the town, to the North-West University, friends and family. It's just amazing.” By: Sibusiso Edward Moledi

Frans Steyn made the jump from high school rugby (at Grey College in Bloemfontein) to the green and gold jumper of the Springboks in the space of a year. Steyn is an enigmatic, once-in-a-generation type player, but not everyone is as gifted as the Bloemfontein boytjie . Some players have to take the long road to the top and now in his new role as head coach at the Cheetahs, Steyn is looking for exactly those types of players to help his side get back to where they believe they belong.   Pic: Cheetahs Rugby on Youtube In his search for upcoming talent, Steyn has added the FNB Varsity Cup as an option to try to build his side with the Cheetah’s most impressive acquisition this year being Ntokozo Makhaza, the former UCT Ikey winger who impressed so much during his time at the Green Mile that he was called up to a Springbok alignment camp by head coach Rassie Erasmus.   Steyn believes with the current structures of the competitions in the South African rugby ecosystem, the importance of the FNB Varsity Cup will only continue to grow.   “With the junior competitions we have at the moment – like the under 20s – I think the Varsity Cup will even get bigger,” Steyn said.   “There’s going to be a lot of players that’s going to sit without opportunities, like the unions won’t be able to carry players as long.   “It’s massive at the moment, for us, the Cheetahs, we really focus on the Varsity Cup and the guys in the Varsity Cup.   “We want a lot of that talent that’s there. It takes them a while to get through. Like Mackie, Makhaza, who hasn’t played a lot.”   According to Steyn, Makhaza has had some trouble with minor injuries as well as the current wingers Michael Annies and Cohen Jasper.   “He has been struggling with a little bit of niggles here and there,” Steyn said about Makhaza. “But Prince (Nkabinde, former UJ wing) was the same. Neels Volschenk (former Shimlas loose forward) was the same when he just arrived and it just takes them a bit of time to adapt.   “But then look at Prince now and Neels, all the guys that we contracted over the last couple of years have really come through nicely.”   The transition between Varsity rugby and the next level, which when playing for the Cheetahs could be the Currie Cup, SA Cup or EPCR Challenge Cup, is still big, according to Steyn.   “It takes them a couple of months,” he explained. “It’s just physicality-wise, it’s another level up.   “You go from schoolboy to, say, Young Guns and then from Young Guns to the Cup and then from there it’s a little bump up. You need to adapt. It’s just a little bit harder than normal.”   Despite the massive jump in skill level, the talent and hard work is prevalent in all the players that come through the ranks and end up at the Cheetahs.   “All of them, we haven’t had trouble with any of them,” Steyn said. “All the guys we contracted are hard-working and have the right attitude, so we’re very happy with that. “They get proper coaching at Varsity Cup level as well so, when they get to us, they’re really professional. They look after themselves.”   The professionalism of the Varsity Cup has increased exponentially over the years. It has more eyes on it than ever before and this is aided by the fact that almost every match is televised, this has incentivized playing for a senior professional contract from one of the unions in the country.   “It’s because the Varsity Cup is well-broadcasted,” Steyn explained. “They know they get airtime on the TV and that they need to perform, and then as well, discipline-wise, they need to do well in their studies to play. So, it teaches them a lot.”

The 2026 FNB Varsity Cup has come down to the final two, following eight rounds of amusing rugby. FNB UP-Tuks are set to lock horns with their biggest hurdle of the season in a shape of FNB NWU Eagles at the Tuks stadium. The clash will be a repeat of Round 5 where Eagles came up on top being the only side to defeat the Pretoria outfit this season. Deway Swartbooi and company are on a hunt for a record sixth Varsity Cup title while their counterparts looking for their third trophy. Tuks head coach Deway Swartbooi has retaliated that his side will fight to the end. “We do not want to get ahead of ourselves; it is another game another final. Proud of the boys they showed grit and character throughout. We had a rollercoaster of a season, but we are still looking for that perfect game. It will be good being part of another final with Tuks. Akha our scrumhalf got player of the match and he came on as backup for our injured scrumhalf Chad-Lee Valentine. We have a lot of positives with the collective of our players stepping up whenever we need them to,” said Swartbooi The Stripe Generation coach admits to starting slow in games as something to fix ahead of the main showpiece. “We want to make a better account of ourselves when it comes to set-piece and our forwards. I know coach Kobus is there and taking care of things, he probably not going to sleep this week. We need our set-piece to fire like they normally do, we got a final now and it shows we are not a one strategy team.” UP-Tuks will collide with NWU Eagles to determine the last man standing in this campaign. “Firstly, it is a privilege to play a home final again. We worked hard and wanted to get a home semi-final and now we got a home final. The one team that we lost against this campaign, I know they will be up for it but this is Tuks, this is our house and we will come here to defend our house.   By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

The UFH Baby Blues secured their place in the FNB Varsity Cup Women final with an impressive victory over log leaders FNB UP-Tuks while the Caracals produced a disciplined and balanced performance to defeat FNB UKZN 34-17, turning early pressure into a dominant second half showing in an entertaining encounter.   FNB UP-Tuks Women 30-45 FNB UFH Women FNB UFH Women booked their place in the final after a hard-fought 45-30 victory over FNB UP-Tuks Women in their FNB Varsity Cup Women semi-final clash at Tuks Stadium on Friday. The home side started brightly, with prop Nomzamo Nimorundsini crossing early to give Tuks a 5-0 lead. However, UFH responded well as Siphelele Dlamini powered over, with the conversion handing the visitors a 7-5 advantage. The Baby Blues grew in confidence, and centre Lilitha Vakalisa added a try before the break, helping UFH take a 21-14 lead into halftime. Tuks came out strong in the second half, with Mokatse Thandi scoring to level matters at 21-21. But UFH quickly regained control, with Vakalisa proving unstoppable as she completed a superb hat-trick to extend the lead. A late penalty further cemented UFH’s dominance, as they managed the closing stages well to secure a 40–30 win. Flyhalf Inga Qogi delivered an influential performance and was deservedly named Player of the Match, guiding UFH into the final with composure and control.   Semi-final HIGHLIGHTS: FNB Tuks vs FNB UFH SCORERS:   FNB UP-Tuks Women:  (14) 30 Tries: Nomzamo Nimorundsini, Thandi Mokatse, Erin Prins, Tesmeque Maritz.   FNB UFH Women:  (21) 45 Tries: Lilitha Vakalisa X3, Cqwenga Joni, Inga Qogi, Siphelele Dlamini.   FNB Player of the Match:  Inga Qogi (FNB UFH Women)   TEAMS FNB UP-Tuks Women: Nomzamo Nimorundsini, Aphiwe Masuku, Ox Xholi, Itumeleng Malala, Mbali Ndlovu, Thandi Mokatse, Candice De Wet, Gugu Mncwabe, Erin Prins, Lerato Tshabalala, Anele Mgwazele, Abigail De Jager, Lidene Kruger, Tesmeque Maritz, Kwanga Majebe. FNB UFH Women: Milla Wawa, Aphiwe Nqana, Eyam Ngalo, Siphelele Dlamini, Qaqamba Ndzondana, Thokozani Sikela, Simamnkele Jolingana, Rose Haka, Sinekhaya Tywalani, Inga Qogi, Cwenga Joni, Lilitha Vakalisa, Sibabalwe Jobo, Siphokuhle Vakele, Litha Tofu.   FNB UWC Women 34-17 FNB UKZN Women FNB UWC produced a strong all-round performance to secure a 34–17 victory over FNB UKZN in an entertaining Varsity Shield encounter, marked by early intensity and a clinical second-half display. The visitors struck first, with Zanele Hlongwane crossing over in the opening minute to give FNB UKZN lead after a missed conversion. However, FNB UWC responded almost immediately, as Davedine March finished off a well-worked team try to level the scores within the opening exchanges. Both sides showed attacking intent, but it was the Caracals who began to take control midway through the first half. A point-of-origin try from Ronecia Gordon, successfully converted, pushed the hosts ahead. Momentum continued to build as FNB UWC added another try through their following a brilliant phase of play, extending the lead even further. The Impi refused to back down, with Sandulelo Nyawose powering over for a try in the to reduce the deficit. The second half saw the Caracals assert further dominance, with Jessica Mare added three points from a penalty early on, before Fatouma Yalcoue crossed the line for a converted try, stretching the lead. FNB UKZN showed resilience once again, with Sphesihle Fihlela scoring a well-taken try, successfully converted to bring the score closer, however, FNB UWC maintained control, adding another penalty to take the score even further. Despite continued effort from both sides, FNB UWC emerged as deserved winners with a 34–17 victory, combining attacking efficiency with disciplined game management.   Semi-final HIGHLIGHTS: FNB UWC vs FNB UKZN SCORERS   FNB UWC Women:  (19) 34 Tries:  Davidine March, Ronecia Gordon (POR), Qaqamba Ngqabalala, Jessica Mare, Fatouma Yalcoue.   FNB UKZN Women:  (10) 17 Tries:  Zanele Hlongwane, Sphesihle Fihlela, Sandulelo Nyawose   FNB Player of the Match: Davedine March (FNB UWC Women)   TEAMS FNB UWC Women : Sange Makhwezela; Jada Davids;  Mivuyo Pawuli; Ivanche Gerritsen; Samukelisiwe Mjweni; Yanelisa Plaajie; Akhona Nkosi; Fatouma Yalcoue; Nandile Mvandaba; Qaqamba Ngqabalala; Abongwe Vilane; Ronecia Gordon; Lee-Amber Beukes; Davedine March. FNB UKZN Women:   Sandulelo Nyawose; Landelizwi Dlamini; Siphokuhle Mdletshe; Zama Mbeje; Lulama Cele; Athiphile Njiyela; Avela Gwala; Hlekane Baloyi; Asanda Mnyandu; Snethembe Mzimela; Charmaine Dimpo Mogashoa; Teddy Gatyana; Mahlogonolo Nkoane; Zanele Hlongwane; Sphesihle Fihlela.