Playing a semi-final at home doesn’t always guarantee a pathway to the final. This is according to FNB Maties head coach Kabamba Floors ahead of his team’s encounter against FNB UFS Shimlas in the first semi-final of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup on Monday 15 April at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch. Kick-off is at 16:45. Floors says his players will have to be mentally prepared to dig deep if they want to beat Shimlas. “Yes, playing at home makes one's preparation much easier because you don’t have to travel, and you have the crowd behind you. However, you still must make sure you perform and produce the goods on the day. “Shimlas is a well-coached team. They only lost two games. We beat them once and Ikeys won their first game against them. It's not easy playing them in Bloemfontein. They would have learnt a lot from our previous encounter, and I think that it will be a very evenly matched game.” Floors says the Maroon Machine will have to make full use of their opportunities and not give Shimlas any opportunities to play their natural game. “They are a team that challenges you by giving the ball air and moving it around the park. So, we will have to be on top of our game in the way we are going to approach it. “We strive to play with a balance between structure and giving the players the freedom to play what they see in front of them. We don’t just throw the ball around but try to stick to our structure and adapt to the situation within that structure. “We would like to think we have a good set piece with our lineouts and mauls. This gives us a solid platform if the need arises to move the ball. In the playoffs it’s all about reading the situation and game management.” If Maties manage to beat Shimlas and FNB NWU Eagles win their semi-final against FNB UCT Ikeys, Floors and his team will have to travel to tackle the defending champions on their home turf in Potchefstroom. However, if the Ikeys beat the Eagles and Maties win their semi-final, the two Cape Universities will face off in the final in Cape Town. “It will be nice to have a Cape Town final, but we will have to dig deep to win our game whilst Ikeys will get another chance to tackle the Eagles in Potchefstroom. At least we don’t have to travel to Shimlas in the Free State. So, we are happy with the situation we currently find ourselves in,” says Floors. by Adnaan Mohamed

FNB UFS Shimlas are ready and up for the challenge when they head to the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch to take on FNB Maties in the first semi-final of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup on Monday 15 April. Kick-off is at 16:45. The 2015 champions regained their confidence to a large degree on Monday night (7 April) with a 24-12 win against FNB Wits in Johannesburg in wet and tricky conditions. The first prize would have been to host a home semi-final for a third year in a row, but it was ultimately their 38-29 defeat to Maties in Bloemfontein a fortnight ago that denied them of this. Coach André Tredoux feels the way his charges bounced back as they chased the bonus point win has given them a boost and equipped them to face the five-time champions on Monday. “Having the wettest Monday of the year didn't help us in terms of trying to play our brand of rugby. In terms of defence, our boys stuck in really well, especially after being under pressure early on. Our defence was outstanding at the start of the game and that laid the platform. “I thought our ball control in the wet and slippery conditions was rather good against a Wits team that was up for the game and did put us under pressure.” Tredoux adds that playing away from Maties is always a challenge, but this will motivate his team even more. “To be honest, it's something we spoke about, sometimes it's easier for us to play away from home because the boys don't have to be in class or write tests on the day of a game. Our record is similar to the pool stages in previous years where we lost only two games. “We're looking forward to playing at the Danie Craven Stadium, which is the cathedral of student rugby in South Africa, and I'm sure the boys are going to be up for the challenge.”

A tough test is waiting for FNB UCT Ikeys when they take on defending champions FNB NWU Eagles in the second semi-final of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup on Monday at the Fanie du Toit Sports Ground in Potchefstroom. Kick-off is at 19:00. The Ikeys Tigers will go into the match still smarting from their 18-30 defeat to their opponents a week ago. Coach Tom Dawson-Squibb says this time around it will be a different story. "I think we lost the game due to the Eagles being strong at scrum time and taking their opportunities better than we did. They are a good side, very cohesive. "When I chat to all players post-game, as we do as a matter of course, I get the sense that they learnt a lot from this experience. "Going up there was a blessing for us as a dress rehearsal. I think we will come out swinging for the fences.” Dawson-Squibb admits it will be tough playing at the Fanie Du Toit Sports Ground in front of the Eagles’ supporters. "I can't predict the result of course, what is certain is it will be tough. They are a proud group, confident in themselves and Burger [van der Westhuizen] coaches them well. "I think neither team will make massive changes, but we certainly took some learnings around what to expect so will adjust accordingly.” According to Dawson-Squibb, they need to execute well on the day. "Look, we aren't the favourites, so we don't have to go in with the pressure on us. What we need to do is execute what we do more effectively. "There is always a temptation to get clever, but simplicity is genius, we just want to execute well. "Accept that it is coming. As someone said to me in the team, ‘I'd rather play in front of that than two men and a dog on a cold Wednesday night’. So we will soak it all up and play with the benefit of freedom that we as the away side get up there, what a treat." by Ayanda Frances Felem

The line-up of the semi-finals of the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield has been determined after some scintillating action in the last round-robin matches. FNB UP-Tuks host FNB WSU in Pretoria while FNB Madibaz is at home against debutants FNB Varsity College in Gqeberha. The showdowns take place on Friday 19 April. FNB UP-TUKS 66 – 24 FNB MADIBAZ FNB UP-Tuks comprehensively beat FNB Madibaz 66-24 in a top-of-the-table clash at the Tuks Stadium in Pretoria to remain the only unbeaten team in this year’s competition. The victory ensures the Stripe Generation will return to the FNB Varsity Cup competition next year. Madibaz will play FNB CUT in a promotion/relegation match next month to determine whether they will also take a step up. Tuks got off to a flaming start with Kobus Janse van Rensburg scoring a brace inside the first ten minutes. His first try came off a powerful scrum before a cheeky piece of individual play led to his second. The visitors weren’t going to hold back as they responded swiftly with a penalty try that saw Tuks’ Henry Till sent off with a yellow card. Even with a man down, the home side extended their lead through tries by Cayno February and skipper Ethan Burger. Madibaz displayed some powerful forward play and quick hands saw winger Qurin Cupido fly over in the corner before Kyle Erasmus dotted down from a relentless driving maul to close the gap. The home side, however, remained unstoppable as scrumhalf Chad-Lee Valentine flew over the try line on the stroke of half-time. The score was 35-17. Tuks picked up where they left off in the first half and cemented their dominance with back-to-back tries for Henry Till before Burger took his tally to two tries. Hayden Kemp then rubbed salt in their opponent’s wounds with his try. Madibaz finally got their first second-half try in the last minute with a brilliant run from Leon van der Merwe. SCORERS FNB UP-Tuks 66 (35) – Tries: Kobus Janse van Rensburg (2), Cayno February, Ethan Burger (2), Chad-Lee Valentine, Henry Till (2), Hayden Kemp. Conversions: Jean-Pierre Wentzel (8), Kyle Cyster. Penalty: Kyle Cyster. FNB Madibaz 24 (17) – Tries: Penalty Try, Qurin Cupido, Kyle Erasmus, Leon van der Merwe. Conversions: Kehan Myburgh. FNB Player That Rocks: Ethan Burger (FNB UP-Tuks) TEAMS FNB UP-Tuks: Ethan Lance Burger, Henry Edwin Till, Jacobus Johan Louw, Johannes Wilhelmus Mare, Roald Hattingh, Kamohelo Tlome, Cayno Douglas February, Marco Venter, Chad-Lee Valentine, Jean-Pierre Wentzel, Nqubeko Sbongakonke Mkwanazi, Kobus Janse Van Rensburg, Tharquinn Thane Manuel, Bayanda Sinele Ngubane, Kyle Edward Cyster. FNB Madibaz: Endinako Kuse, Kyle Erasmus, Sbulelo Roji, Dewald Gerber, Christopher Cikuru Kachungunu, Mzwakhe Kevin Hlupheko, Alwaba Liyema Elam Bobelo, Leon van der Merwe, Mpumelelo Solani Mavuso, Rashied Conrad, Lwando Davane, Troy Delport, Enrique Franks, Qurin Cupido, Kehan Myburgh. FNB VARSITY COLLEGE 37 – 18 FNB WSU FNB Varsity College booked themselves a place in the semi-finals in their debut season with a 37-18 victory over FNB WSU at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane. In cold and wet weather, it took 18 minutes before the first points were scored with a try by Varsity College wing Sivuyisiwe Mpendu. The visitors’ second try followed soon after when hooker Jacques Marais went over. WSU flyhalf Maxwell Klaasen was successful with a penalty before dominant forward play by Varsity College led to Abande Mthembu’s five-pointer. Klaasen was in on the action again for WSU when he crossed the whitewash and converted his try. A try by Rob Everson ensured that Varsity College went into the break 22-10 in the lead. WSU started the second half with a lot of purpose and this determination paid off when Maxwell was successful with another penalty. The WSU forward pack sought to gain equal footing with their counterparts and this determination would see them register their second try through left wing Simo Capa. A try by replacement lock Benjamin Field after a powerful Varsity College pick-and-go saw the visitors extend their lead once again. Drico Marx converted and he later added a penalty to his points tally. Varsity College repeated the pick-and-go move and it led to flank John Steyl going over and sealing the victory. SCORERS FNB Varsity College 37 (22) - Tries: Sivuyisiwe Mpendu, Jacques Marais, Abande Mthembu, Rob Everson, Benjamin Field, John Steyl. Conversions: Drico Marx (2). Penalties: Drico Marx. FNB WSU 18 (10) - Tries: Maxwell Klaasen, Simo Capa. Conversions: Maxwell Klaasen. Penalties: Maxwell Klaasen (2). FNB Player That Rocks: Mandisi Nkutha (FNB Varsity College) TEAMS FNB Varsity College: Daniel Van Huizen, Jacques Marais, Siyabonga Dube, Robert Everson, Werner Coetzee, Juan Steyl, Enzo Van Niekerk, Mandisi Nkutha, Abande Mthembu, Frederick Marx, Nkazimulo Mzolo, Macmillian Mudara, Mbasa Nkonki, Sivuyisiwe Mpendu, Tshegofatso Ramaloko. FNB WSU: Lwandile Nathi Majozi, Yandisa Myokwana, Dayton Berndt, Kamva Tetani, Lutho Mampunye, Sibulele Manyube, Kwazi Ngwaqa, Sandisiwe Mkwayimba, Lizole Papama Hebe, Maxwell Klaasen, Simosethu Capa, Aviwe Mbuli, Simthembile Zozi, Asisipho Jim, Lisolethu Valisi. FNB UFH 25 – 19 FNB TUT Relentless defending by FNB UFH in the final minutes gave them a 25-19 victory over FNB TUT at the TUT Stadium in Pretoria. In what was a must-win encounter for TUT to prevent them from finishing bottom of the log, the home side opted for points at the start of the match with scrumhalf Aswen Rademeyer kicking over two penalties. The visitors responded with a penalty of their own through Aphiwe Sidloyi’s sharp boot. Kamvelihle Fatyela then powered his way over the try line for UFH. TUT weren’t to be outdone and Sean-B Tshego responded in kind. A try by winger Okuhle Pangwa and a successful conversion by Rademeyer gave UFH a one-point lead at half-time, 17-16. In the second half, UFH started dominating and were rewarded with a try thanks to Sinalo Jivana’s quick tap-and-go. He also added a penalty. Rademeyer reduced the margin with another penalty as TUT piled on the pressure late in the match. Crucial discipline and solid defence however made sure UFH walked away with the victory. SCORERS FNB UFH 25 (17) – Tries: Kamvelihle Fatyela, Okuhle Pangwa, Sinalo Jivana. Conversions: Aphiwe Sidloyi (2). Penalties: Aphiwe Sidloyi, Sinalo Jivana. FNB TUT 19 (16) – Tries: Sean-B Tshego. Conversions: Mihlali Bam. Penalties: Aswen Rademeyer (4). FNB Player That Rocks: Lakheni Majali (FNB UFH) TEAMS FNB UFH: Mesuli Sinovuyo Samkele Nzima, Kamvelihle Fatyela, Bulela Magopeni, Cinga Nqotyana, Kamvelihle Gcweka, Anda Simanga, Mpho Kensly Jnr Ramahala, Yanga Gazi, Sinalo Jivana, Apiwe Sidloyi, Okuhle Pangwa, Ryan Kelly Maree, Lakheni Majali, Salusiwe Gxekwa, Cyril Mphatsoe. FNB TUT: Mxolisi Nzama, Jandre Van Zyl, Makhosana Junior Mashele, Thato Mopedi, Imani Mulongo Nday, Knowledge Chaira, Lutho Tom, Lwazi Dlamini, Aswen Rademeyer, Mihlali Bam, Vuyani Vanqa, Dwayne Zeeland, Sean-B Kagiso Tshego, Junior Malaza, Ayabonga Zakwe. FNB UKZN 29 – 27 FNB CPUT It came down to the wire, but in the end, FNB UKZN managed to beat FNB CPUT 29-27 at the Peter Booysen Stadium in Pietermaritzburg. It was the visitors who scored first when Wiehan Kruger fought his way over the try line and converted himself. The Impis responded with a try by Cham Zondeki taking the match to 7-7. This was to be the score until the halfway mark. It was a bumper-to-bumper second half as both teams were fighting for their lives. Jarryd Nicholls dotted down for UKZN as he ran away with the ball. For CPUT, Kruger continued his clean kicking on the night when he slotted a penalty about 10 minutes into the second half. FNB Player That Rocks Thando Cele made his way over the try line for the home team after he carved his way through the defenders to extend the lead of the home team. CPUT kept in touch with another penalty by Kruger. Yolanda Miya added his name to the board for the Impis’ final try. Kama added the conversion and later on also a penalty. For CPUT Karen Valentyn scored a brace, his second in the final minute of the match. It was however too little too late as UKZN ran out victors. SCORERS FNB UKZN 29 (7) – Tries: Cham Zondeki, Jarryd Nicholls, Thando Cele, Yolanda Miya. Conversions: Khanya Kama (3). Penalties: Khanya Kama. FNB CPUT 27 (7) – Tries: Wiehan Kruger, Karen Valentyn (2). Conversions: Wiehan Kruger (2), Jayson January. Penalties: Wiehan Kruger (2). FNB Player That Rocks: Thando Cele (FNB UKZN) TEAMS FNB UKZN: Benjamin Maseko, Qhawe Ndabezinhle Praiseworthy Nxumalo, Khanyisani Thabiso Ncube, Yolanda Miya, Sikhona Ndulini, Wela-Aphumele Mnata Takata, Tinotenda Mazhindu, Amahle Dlamini, Thando Sphesihle Cele, Khanya Junior Kama, Cham Zondeki, Russell Adrian Fick, Siso France, Singele Mihlayenkosi Mkhize, Jarryd Nicholls. FNB CPUT: Emihle Akho Benya, Lihle Lindisipho Kula, Kieran Delaan Naidoo, Ntsako Ashley Mhlanga, Lwando Woji, Duke Somila Shasha, Lungelo Lethukuthula Kubheka, Ayabulela Zono, Jaybee Hayden Filander, Wiehan Kruger, Keenan Williams, Timothy Matthew Shortles, Iwaan Bloys, Linton Shawn Maritz, Keene Munnick.

When they take to the field in Pretoria against FNB Madibaz this afternoon (Friday 12 April) at 15:00, FNB UP-Tuks only have one mission – to restore their pride and be the only unbeaten team in the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield competition. The first two boxes, reaching the knockouts and securing a home semi-final, have already been ticked. Should they beat the visitors from the Eastern Cape, the Stripe Generation will finish top of the log and will return to the FNB Varsity Cup next season. Head coach Deway Swartbooi remains confident in his side with the tasks set for them. “There is still this week’s game against a very good Madibaz team and then the semi-finals ahead, if anything credit must go to the squad, but it remains a work in progress.” According to Swartbooi, they are expecting a tough game against Madibaz. “It is going to be one hell of a game, Madibaz are quality and well-coached. I think both teams will want to achieve promotion automatically, it is the ultimate for any Shield team.” This year was the first time that Tuks competed in the Varsity Shield after being relegated from the Varsity Cup last year following their bottom-of-the-log position. Going into this year’s campaign the Pretoria side had plans set and needed to explore the depth of their squad. Swartbooi hails his side for the effort they have put in. “The boys really worked hard and there’s always room for improvement. We are still waiting for that perfect game, but we are happy as the coaching staff for the weekly improvements and efforts from our boys. “I didn’t realise the kicking depth, I think we are trying to find the right balance between the two, kicking game and running game. At one stage in the competition, we were down in the fly-half department, so we had to build some sort of depth.” by Lehlogonolo Ditshego

All eyes will be on Pretoria tomorrow (Friday 12 April, 15:00) when FNB UP-Tuks and FNB Madibaz face off to determine who will finish top of the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield log. The winner will play in the FNB Varsity Cup next season. Tuks and Madibaz are the only unbeaten teams in this year’s competition. Both have already secured a home semi-final and will know who their opponents are after the last round-robin matches on Friday. Madibaz coach David Manuel has called for an undiluted 80-minute effort from his team. He also acknowledges they will go into the contest as the underdogs. “We are ready to embrace this ultimate test. At the same time, we are excited about the challenge ahead.” Manuel says his charges are looking forward to measuring themselves against the best. “We will focus on the things that we can control and not get worried about the externals that we can’t. It will be a case of each player trying to lift his game by one or two per cent and I just want them to be warriors for 80 minutes.” Manuel, who is in his third year as Madibaz's coach, says it has taken some time to build the systems they needed to perform effectively at this level. “For example, I think we did well to handle the onslaught from Varsity College last Friday, but I still feel we lacked a bit of the killer instinct. “But that’s the sort of thing that happens with a relatively young side. I am blessed with the efforts the players have delivered this season. “We have built our defensive and attacking systems, and [know] when to kick strategically, and now it’s a matter of trying to play within those systems for as long as possible.” He is pleased with their on-field discipline, which stems from their attention to detail in all facets of the game, says Manuel. “That has been very encouraging. Every Friday afternoon there are glimpses of what they are capable of achieving.”

Ahead of next week’s semi-finals, it was all-out action in the last round-robin encounters of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup. FNB NWU Eagles were victorious over FNB UCT Ikeys while FNB UFS Shimlas navigated their way past FNB Wits. FNB Maties beat FNB CUT and FNB UJ outclassed FNB UWC. FNB NWU EAGLES 30 – 18 FNB UCT IKEYS FNB NWU Eagles secured a home semi-final following a hard-fought 30-18 victory over FNB UCT Ikeys at the Fanie du Toit Sports Ground in Potchefstroom. The Eagles started the game blazing with a try from Hennie du Randt following a brilliant run by Naiden Jaarts. Ikeys was quick to respond with a try from Ntokozo Makhaza to reduce the deficit. It didn’t take long for the home side to extend their lead with Luan Van Der Walt scoring a try from close range following long periods of Eagles’ possession. Two quick-fire penalties from Ikeys’ left wing Ntokozo Makhaza took the score to 16-13. Minutes later Chyle Van Zyl gave the Eagles a 21-13 lead heading into half-time. The beginning of the second half was slow as there were no tries scored in the first 25 minutes. Johan Lombard then gave UCT some hope with a try. It was a nervy end to the game but a try from Naiden Jaarts sealed the victory for the Eagles to finish at the top of the log. SCORERS FNB NWU Eagles 30 (21) - Tries: Hennie du Randt, Naiden Jaarts, Luan Van Der Walt, Chyle Van Zyl. Conversions: Zinedine Robinson (2), Charles Williams. FNB UCT Ikeys 18 (13) – Tries: Ntokozo Makhaza, Johan Lombard. Conversion: Ntokoza Makhaza. Penalties: Ntokozo Makhaza (2). FNB Player That Rocks: Hennie du Randt (FNB NWU) TEAMS FNB NWU Eagles: Matome Molebogeng Manyama, Chyle Van Zyl, Ntobeko Thabiso Shezi, Stephan Krugel, Franco Marais, Hennie Du Randt, Tian Van Zyl, Marvelous Mashimbyi, Aphelele Emihle Madaka, Zinedine Robinson, Naiden Jaarts, Arnoldus Christiaan Vlok, Matthew Luke Fortuin, Keano Ricardo Windvogel, Luan Jacobus Van Der Walt. FNB UCT Ikeys: Mhleli Khethuxolo Khuzwayo, Keagan Jordan Blanckenberg, Jovan Bekker, Kyle Enos Ndiao, Johan Van Rhyn, Siphumezo Dyonase, Mika Franz Schubert, Laro Delport, Asad Moos, Alexander Vermeulen, Ntokozo Sibusiso Makhaza, Rethabile Donovan Louw, Thomas Nel, Luke John Burger, Duran Ryan Koevort. FNB MATIES 26 – 20 FNB CUT FNB Maties managed to hang on for a 26-20 victory over FNB CUT in a cold and wet Bloemfontein. The tough conditions marred good attacking play throughout the night. It was the Ixias who opened the scoring through a penalty by fly-half Juan Smith and it would be Smith who stretched the host's lead to 6-0 a few minutes later. CUT made their early penalties count before conceding the game's opening try (Roland van der Heever) to the rolling maul of the Maroon Machine. The visitors repeated the trick when they scored their second similarly. Eric Basson gave Maties the lead for the first time, and Juan Mostert added the extras. Maties went into the half-time break 12-6 in the lead. Maties scored soon after the restart as substitute winger Christiaan Van Heerden-Smith scored for his side, and Juan Mostert converted once more. Player That Rocks Louw Nel added another try for the men from Stellenbosch and Mostert once again added the extras. The hosts left it late once more, scoring a point-of-origin try, dotted down by Tiaan Drotskie. The home side would score again with time already up. Asekho Marubelela going over for the hosts, who left it a little bit too late. SCORERS FNB Maties 26 (12) – Tries: Roland van der Heever, Eric Basson, Christiaan Van Heerden-Smith, Louw Nel. Conversions: Juan Mostert (3). FNB CUT 20 (6) – Tries: Tiaan Drotskie, Asekho Marubelela. Conversions: Floris Brand. Penalties: Juan Smith. FNB Player That Rocks: Louw Nel (FNB Maties) TEAMS FNB Maties: Prince Rotondwa Mulea, Siyasanga Ngubelanga, Friedrich Cornelius Weilbach, Edrich Viljoen, Matthew Andrew Gray, Eric Chris Basson, Jacobus Adriaan Louw Nel, Roland Leonard Van Der Heever, McKyle Volmoer, Juan Mostert, Matthew van Schalkwyk, Aydon Colin Topley, Ryan Marcus Manuel, Paschal Hans Uzoma Ekeji, Hofmeyr Gideon Retief. FNB CUT: Mamello Moshoaliba, Albertus Human Venter, Sisipho Nofuya, Asekho Phindile Marubelela, Kevin Strydom, Tsebane Edward Stemer, Tjaart Jurie Van der Walt, Jacobus Johannes Cloete, Raydon Swartbooi, Juan Arnold Smith, Liam Ethan de Wet, Liam Prinsloo, Zachary Bester, Adielson Gouveia, Devanito Lushan Vergotine. FNB UFS SHIMLAS 24 – 12 FNB WITS FNB UFS Shimlas claimed a vital 24-12 bonus point victory over FNB Wits at a wet Wits Rugby Stadium in Johannesburg. The game kicked off in a cagey manner with both teams playing with caution on a wet surface. It was the Witsies that enjoyed early possession, but they failed to convert it into points, often being pegged back by handling errors. Once Shimlas got into their groove, it was evident they would pose a threat to the Wits defence. First blood was drawn by the visitors, when hooker Liyema Mgwigwi dove over from close range, after playing through the phases. Flyhalf Ethan Wentzel made light work of the conversion, adding the extra 2 points to give his side a 7-0 lead. Speedster Siviwe Zondani added his name to the scoresheet after a well-worked team play that Zondani rounded off under the poles. Wentzel once again rose to the occasion and the visitors went into the half-time break 14-0. UFS managed to score again after the second strategy through fullback Michael Annies. Wits hit back shortly with Drew Bennet sliding over after receiving an incredible pass from outside centre Liyema Matyolweni. The much-needed bonus point try for Shimlas was scored by Gideon Nel, with the resulting conversion attempt striking the upright. Wits got a consolation try in the last move of the game, with flanker Kelvin Kanenungo barging his way over to see the match end 24-12 in favour of Shimlas. SCORERS FNB UFS-Shimlas 24 (14) - Tries:  Liyema Mgwigwi, Siviwe Zondani, Michael Annies, Gideon Nel. Conversions: Ethan Wentzel (2). FNB Wits 12 (0) - Tries: Drew Bennet, Kelvin Kanenungo. FNB Player That Rocks: Ethan Wentzel (FNB Shimlas) TEAMS FNB UFS-Shimlas: Ntokozo Hlophe, Liyema Mgwigwi, Francisco Dos Reis, Reinier Juan Martin Viljoen, John Raymond Stopforth, Sobe Siyambuka Nakhane Ningiza, Pierre-Raymond Freddie Uys, Kwezi Dlamini, Jandre Nel, Ethan SJ Wentzel, Siviwe Zondani, Gideon Jooste Nel, Zane Bester, Asanda Sihle Kunene, Michael Jnr Kurt Annies. FNB Wits: Elizee Kwitonda, Dewet Lottering, Sibusiso Thando Shongwe, George Lawson St Leger Devenish, Cal Smid, Kelvin Tafirenika Kanenungo, Joshua Daniel Ferreira, Lindokuhle Ncusane, Wernich Aucamp, Tireque Caleb Apolles, Lindani Dweba, Mark Dilan Snyman, Luhle Liyema Matyolweni, Dustyn Matthew Holmes, Setshaba Mohlakoane Mokoena. FNB UJ 59 – 8 FNB UWC FNB UJ ended their season on a high note outclassing FNB UWC 59-8. UJ headed into this one desperate for a victory, doing just enough to escape the relegation/promotion playoff match. UWC’s sole try came from Zinzan Magerman while Aaron Swartz added a penalty. The Orange Army dominated both halves of the game taking an early lead through Franco Schutte who was able to move the ball along the backline. Flyhalf Kurtley Kiewiet was an essential part of UJ’s scoring, being successful with four conversions. Schutte made it a brace after UJ made use of their line out. Liam Rowan ensured that the home side got another five points before the halftime break. It was Mauritz Swart who made a bold statement for UJ in the opening minutes of the second half securing a point-of-origin try. Rowan then scored his second before Maritz scored his brace, also a point-of-origin try. David Cary, Kamva Kalipa and Berwyn Bosch were the other try scorers as the Orange Army secured a much-needed victory. SCORERS FNB UJ 59 (21) - Tries: Franco Schutte (2), Liam Rowan (2), Mauritz Swart (2), David Cary, Kamva Kalipa, Berwyn Bosch. Conversions: Kurtley Kiewiet (4), Berwyn Bosch. FNB UWC 8 (3) – Tries: Zinzan Magerman. Penalty: Aaron Swartz. FNB Player That Rocks: Rowan Malgas (FNB UJ) TEAMS FNB UWC: Hlonela Qelile, James Coetzee, Franco Ceasar, Alexander-Jaco van der Merwe, Michail Kasfikis, Nicholas Chipanje, Louan De Lange, Zinzan Magerman, Wian van der Sandt, Aaron Swartz, Hlomla Ncana, Emile Silivis, Denver Van Wyk, Bevan Simons, Jean van Schalkwyk. FNB UJ: Damian Baker, Mauritz Swart, Bian Douglas Janse Van Rensburg, Marius Coetzee, Connor Van Buuren, Kamohelo Rorisang Molefe, Phillip Apea-Adu, Franco Julian Schutte, Liam Rowan, Kurtley Kiewiet, Prince Nkabinde, Likhaya Tengimfene, Sfiso Perseverance Dlamini, Boldwin Hansen, Rowan Malgas.

SA Rugby head of amateur referees Deon van Blommenstein believes the tackle law changes for school and club rugby have been well received by both coaches and players in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield competitions. The updated laws relate to the lowering of the maximum legal height at which a tackle may be made while also outlawing potentially dangerous ball-carrying actions and techniques were put into practice when the competitions kicked off earlier this year. Van Blommenstein admits there are certain things they are not able to officiate on, but they needed to find out what can be refereed and strike a balance. “We wanted to get two things right. Firstly, we did not want to kill the game by increasing the penalty count from 20 to 45 penalties because that would frighten away the people.  The second aspect was that we wanted a behaviour change in players. “When the competition started the biggest issue was the ball carrier going into contact with the head lower than the hips. That was the biggest challenge, players forget because they developed certain habits. For the referees, it was just as difficult because they looked at the tackler instead of the ball carrier. So, for them, it was also a big adjustment.” Despite teething problems, Van Blommenstein says a marked improvement in the implementation of the laws has been noticed as the competitions progressed. “In the first round, there were about 16 penalties for tackling higher than the sternum and head lower than the hips. After each round, it became less and less until we had no penalties around the new tackle laws. “The coaches have worked hard and have played a massive role in the progress. You can see it in the games. When a player gets penalised for running with his head lower than the hips, he immediately says sorry to his teammates because he or she has forgotten. “It makes a massive difference that coaches are spending time on how to tackle correctly. The outcomes are now much better. In the past, it was just about using tackle bags, but that is not how tackles work. Tackles are dynamic because players sometimes change direction. “It seems as if things are working at the moment. “We thought that we would get a backlash, but fortunately it has been well received. However, it is still early days and in the future (the head lower than the hips law) might change from a penalty to a free kick. It’s still not perfect on school and club level, but we will see how things develop and see how we can improve going forward.” by Adnaan Mohamed

FNB NWU Eagles will host FNB UCT Ikeys in Potchefstroom and FNB Maties are at home in Stellenbosch against FNB UFS Shimlas in the semi-finals of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup. Both the Eagles and Maties will seek to make it two from two against their opponents this season. Here are some of the standout players from round 7. Naiden Jaarts (FNB NWU Eagles) Naiden Jaarts delivered an outstanding performance in NWU’s victory over UCT displaying remarkable speed and dribbling skills. He also added his name to the scoresheet with a try in the second half. Jaarts ultimately contributed significantly to his team’s success on the night. High School: Upington High School Provincial representation: U18 Academy Week, Provincial U19, Provincial U20/21, Currie Cup (Premier and/or 1st Division) Juan Mostert (FNB Maties) Juan Mostert played a vital leadership role for Maties in the encounter against FNB CUT. In tough conditions, he secured the ball and ensured retention on attack. The fly-half set up several moves that culminated in line breaks, territory gain, and moved the team up the field with his tactical kicking. High School: Paul Roos Gimnasium Provincial representation: U13 Craven Week, U16 Grant Khomo Week, U18 Craven Week, SA Schools, Provincial U19, Provincial U20/21, Currie Cup (Premier and/or 1st Division), International, United Rugby Championship, Heineken Cup Ethan Wentzel (FNB UFS Shimlas) Ethan Wentzel marshalled his troops well, handling the ball with confidence in unfavourable conditions. His kicking game played, especially on the tactical front, a vital role in securing his team’s victory over FNB Wits. Wentzel was instrumental as a playmaker in commanding his team to earn a bonus point in the end. High School: Hoërskool Centurion Provincial representation: U18 Academy Week Mauritz Swart (FNB UJ) It was an impressive performance by Mauritz Swart as the Orange Army handed FNB UWC their seventh defeat of the season. He scored two tries and played a key role in UJ’s set pieces. The hooker ensured his team was able to drive strong mauls on their way to an impressive victory. High School: Strand High Provincial representation: Provincial U20/21 For the full fixture list, click HERE.

FNB UCT Ikeys are still very much in contention for the top prize in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup competition. This is according to flanker Enos Ndiao who says there is a lot at stake for the Tigers. "The team’s confidence is still high … We have secured a semi-final spot so we can take much confidence from that while remembering there’s still a long way to go with a lot of hard work. "We just feel like we need to be a bit more consistent in building pressure in the game … if we can apply pressure constantly and minimise our errors we can be dangerous." Ndiao has applauded a school rugby development for the role it played in his rugby career. The Kenyan-born, in his second season with the Tigers, was part of the Western Province team for the U16 Grant Khomo Rugby Week back in 2018 alongside teammate and fullback Duran Koevort. Ndiao says he is blessed to have gone through the national school rugby week. "Grant Khomo was a great experience and I learnt a lot from it, however not everyone who plays in the prestigious tournament ends up still playing high-level rugby years later. So, I’m blessed that my path has led me here and to have (had) other opportunities.” He is hoping and dreaming of going far with his rugby career while balancing his books at the same time, says Ndiao, in his second year at UCT and majoring in Film Studies and English. ⁠"I want to prioritise my studies while trying my best to get given opportunities to play high-level rugby after the Ikeys. "I hope to go overseas at some point in my career and play rugby there. That has been something I grew up wishing (for) and I can only do it when I am working hard." by Ayanda Frances Felem

Just one round remains for the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield before the semi-finals are set to take place on Friday 19 April. The table is set for explosive action on Friday 12 April when FNB UP-Tuks and FNB Madibaz clash to determine who will finish top of the log and claim bragging rights. Here are some of the standout players from round 6. Kyle Cyster (FNB UP-Tuks) Log leaders FNB UP-Tuks taught Tshwane neighbours FNB TUT a rugby lesson on Friday night (81-10) with Kyle Cyster producing a stellar performance. He showed what consistency matched with class is, orchestrating the backline and launching endless attacks for the Stripe Generation. The result? He claimed three tries for himself and earned himself the FNB Player That Rocks award. High School: Hottentots-Holland High School Provincial Representation: Provincial U19, Provincial U20/21 Kehan Myburgh (FNB Madibaz) Kehan Myburgh’s kicking boots were the difference in the tussle between FNB Madibaz and FNB Varsity College, with the former holding on for a vital victory. The Madibaz fullback landed some sensational penalties and conversions from all corners of the field, contributing ten points to his team’s tally. This secured them a home semi-final spot. High School: Grey High School Provincial Representation: Provincial U20/21 Ntsako Mhlanga (FNB CPUT) Despite just falling short against FNB WSU on home turf, FNB CPUT put in a solid performance against the visitors from the Eastern Cape. The home team’s Ntsako Mhlanga ticked all his basic boxes on the day and showed his versatility. The talented lock, towering over his opponents at 1.94 metres, looked good with the ball in hand and his hard work was rewarded when he got his name added to the try-scoring sheet. High School: Hoërskool Hercules Provincial Representation: Western Province 10s Kamvelihle Fatyela (FNB UFH) Kamvelihle Fatyela led from the front in the victory over FNB UKZN and was duly rewarded with the FNB Player That Rocks. The UFH captain demonstrated strength, commitment and exceptional handling skills. His solid tackles and high work rate in the scrums resulted in two of his tries. His leadership capabilities were instrumental in bursting through UKZN's defence. High School: Durban High School Provincial Representation: U13 Craven Week, U16 Grant Khomo Week, U18 Academy Week, Currie Cup (Premier and/or 1st Division) For a full fixture list, click HERE.

FNB UFS Shimlas are focusing their attention on the details and finishing ahead of today’s (Monday 8 April) important last round-robin match in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup against FNB Wits in Johannesburg. Kickoff is at 16:45. The fourth-placed Shimlas have already secured a semi-final spot. However, after leading the standings for most of the tournament, they are now in a position where they are fighting to secure a home semi-final after their 38-29 defeat to FNB Maties in Bloemfontein a fortnight ago. For the Free State outfit reaching a home semi-final is a big deal but according to captain Pierre Uys that alone is not enough to tame their desire for a second title. “We are in the semi-finals already, but that is not our goal, we are aiming for much more than that. “Monday’s games will determine which teams will have the advantage of a home semi-final, but, having said that, it’s not about where you play, but it’s more a case of which team rocks up on the day.” Uys concedes that against five-time champions Maties they were not at their best. It was the small things that let them down and they’ve worked hard to remedy that. “Against Maties we fell short with a few things and that was our attention to detail and our overall finishing. We’ve put a lot of focus and effort into that during our prep leading into the Wits game. “Monday’s match against Wits is going to be a good one, because both teams will want to prove a point, and we as the Shimlas won’t be taking this one lightly at all.” Meanwhile, what appears to be some good news coming from the Shimlas camp, influential loose-forward Kwezi Dlamini is expected to be fit and ready for action after picking up an injury earlier in the campaign.