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It was mission accomplished for FNB Varsity College who have already secured their qualification for the FNB Varsity Cup 2026 season after finishing the group stages on top of the log, but the Comets have now turned their focus to the FNB Varsity Shield playoffs and finishing the campaign as champions.   Leading his charge, the calm and collected coach Jeremy McLaren made a name for himself and his team as they became the first team from KZN to host a home semi-final in the FNB Varsity Shield and qualify for the FNB Varsity Cup.   “It’s such a big honour to be able to qualify for FNB Varsity Cup. I don’t think it has really sunk in for all of us,” said McLaren.   “For the first time in history there’s a (FNB Varsity Shield) home semi-final in KZN.”   The focus for the FNB Varsity Cup bound Comets has now shifted to regrouping for a strong finish to the season, this beginning with a semi-final clash against FNB CPUT in Durban.   McLaren has cautioned his troops on complacency, stating his concern that the Comets should not be their ‘own worst enemies’.   “The reality for us is that now we need to play like a (FNB Varsity) Cup side.   “The only concern is that we might be our own worst enemies with regards to beating them in Cape Town and thinking the same will happen,” said the FNB Varsity College coach.   “We are only as good as our last game. So, we can never go and think that because we’ve beaten them (FNB CPUT) in Cape Town we just have to arrive.   “The focus should definitely be to try and be at our best and get ourselves going. We have to keep doing what we have been doing in the last few weeks” he added.    Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By Mpendulo Letsoalo

Bustling FNB Madibaz hooker Kyle Erasmus achieved a long-cherished goal when he was named the FNB Player that Rocks for the first time in his career after scoring a hat-trick. The 22-year-old, who debuted for FNB Madibaz in the Varsity Cup of 2022, was pivotal in the team’s 38-28 victory over FNB SPU at Madibaz Stadium in Gqeberha.   Despite crossing the whitewash on three occasions, Erasmus emphasised that his success had been the result of a team effort that realised six tries in all.   “Rugby is a team sport, and the team always comes first but winning the award has been a long time coming,” the forward, who was chuffed with his role on the evening, said.   “When I heard my name being announced, you couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. My family and friends were also thrilled for me.”   “My tries resulted from a series of penalties, allowing us to kick for touch and set up mauls. We gained ground steadily, giving me the opportunity to cross the line.”   He was pleased with his overall performance in which his physicality on attack and in defence created more than just a few headaches for the opposition.   “I had some good steals at the rucks and our lineouts and scrums functioned well. However, there’s always room for improvement.”   The victory extended FNB Madibaz’s winning streak to five games after their opening-round loss to FNB Varsity College.   Erasmus, a fourth-year radiography student, credits the team’s success to discipline and adherence to their game plan.   “We thrive on structured play. That’s how we train,” he explained. “Following our game plan allows us to execute effectively.”   With the Gemmies known to capitalise on loose play, FNB Madibaz had to use their set pieces wisely, playing in their opponents’ half and converting their chances.   Erasmus added that the loss to FNB Varsity College did not define their campaign.   “After that, we came together, believed in ourselves and committed to a process that has given us the confidence to work as a unit towards our goals.”   There is a strong bond in the team – that much is evident – and the aim is clearly to keep on improving while tackling each challenge as it presents itself.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By: Jesica Slabbert

FNB UWC are dealing with the setback of having not achieved their initial goals in the FNB Varsity Shield – of gaining promotion to the FNB Varsity Cup – by focusing their attention on the playoffs. The former FNB Varsity Shield champions lost two regular season matches which left them in third place on the log, behind FNB Madibaz and FNB Varsity College who were promoted to the FNB Varsity Cup next season. Head coach Paul Treu described his feelings about the ongoing season as “mixed emotions”.   “The results speak for themselves. We started so well, and we obviously lost against Madibaz and we lost against CPUT,” Treu said. “That was a bit unexpected.” With promotion to the FNB Varsity Cup now out of reach, they are still eyeing the FNB Varsity Shield title. In order for that to happen the side will have to improve their discipline, according to Treu.   “If we want to do well for the rest of the campaign to go to a final and hopefully to win it, we will have to improve our discipline,” Treu said.   “And also those unforced errors of losing the ball in contact that was disappointing because those are things that we can control. But, you know, there’s still a chance. And then obviously the semi-final is something to look forward to.” “We knew what our goal was that we set at the start of the season,” FNB UWC skipper Romauld Nsombamanya said. “But due to certain results we didn’t manage to achieve our goal.   “It’s a thing that we have to take on the chin as a team. We take responsibility for things that didn’t work, now we just need to reroute our focus on the playoffs.”   FNB UWC will take on FNB Madibaz in Gqeberha on Friday evening looking for vengeance after going down 27-24 earlier in the season at the same venue.   “We need to understand that they’re a team that never gives up,” Nsombamanya said about Friday’s opposition.   “The lesson we learnt from the last match is that if we’re going to put them away, then we need to put them away properly.   “We need to bury them from the first half because if we give them an inch, they can come back.” Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE

FNB CPUT is set to face FNB Varsity College in Durban on April 4th in a high-stakes FNB Varsity Shield semi-final. Despite setbacks, the Blue Wave has remained resilient, using every challenge as fuel to push forward. Now, with a place in the final on the line, they are ready to rise to the occasion. This season has tested the team’s character adding two tough losses along the way, however, those setbacks have only strengthened their side. Head Coach Alistair Theys highlighted the team’s ability to bounce back, praising their resilience, growth, and improved chemistry. “Resilience is in our DNA, with the squad learning from mistakes, staying mentally tough, and trusting their preparation,” said Theys. “It’s about how you respond, and I’m proud of how the players have stepped up, now it’s about delivering our best performance when it matter most.” Assistant coaches Jongi Nokwe and Ramone Samuels have worked tirelessly to prepare the team. Nokwe, focusing on the backs, emphasised precision, smart decision-making, and seizing opportunities. “We know what we’re capable of, and the players have worked hard to improve with each game,” Nokwe said. “Now, it’s about staying composed, making the right decisions, and executing our game plan.” Samuels, reinforcing the team’s physicality and mental toughness, noted that their underdog status has been an advantage. “I am incredibly proud of how these young men have risen to the occasion, leading the log for five consecutive weeks,” Samuels said. “As we prepare for this titanic battle, we are commited to ensuring the forwards are not only physically prepared but mentally sharp and unified as a team.” FNB CPUT remains focused and determined, their season has been defined by resilience, learning, and relentless effort. As they step onto the field in Durban, they do so with confidence ’controlling the controllables’, knowing they have the ability, structure, and mindset to fight for a place in the final.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE By: Mihlali Maraule

The round robin stages of the FNB Varsity Cup have ended and the semi-finalists have been decided in dramatic fashion as defending champs FNB UFS showed their pedigree by beating FNB Tuks in Pretoria. The Shimlas win with a bonus points puts them in 4th spot just one above the Eagles who absolutely crushed the Ixias in Potch, but fail to advance to the playoffs in 5th.  FNB Maties cruised past FNB Wits to claim top spot on the log and a home semi-final while the loss sees the Witsies stay bottom of the log to be automatically relegated to the FNB Varsity Shield. FNB UCT Ikeys triumphed over FNB UJ in a highly competitive and exciting match. The Cape side end the group stage in 3rd and will face the Stripe Generation who finished 2nd in Pretoria . The Orange Army end their campaign in 7th and will go into the promotion relegation playoff against Madibaz on the 5th May. Playoffs: Semi-final 1: FNB Tuks vs FNB UCT, 7 April, 4:45pm at Tuks Stadium Semi-final 2: FNB Maties vs FNB UFS Shimlas, 7 April, 7pm at Danie Craven Stadium. Round 7 match day wrap: FNB UJ 31-49 FNB UCT Ikeys FNB UCT Ikeys triumphed over FNB UJ in a highly competitive and exciting match, securing a 49-31 victory in what was a thrilling encounter.   The match began with FNB UCT Ikeys striking first, capitalising on a penalty after FNB UJ conceded from a dropped scrum. Winger Ntokozo Makhaza slotted the ball through the posts to give the visitors an early lead. Ikeys quickly built on this momentum, and in the 15th minute, Danio Botha spotted a gap in the UJ defense. The conversion was successful, and Ikeys extended their lead.   However, FNB UJ wasn’t discouraged. The home side responded positively within a minute when Reuven Ferreria found space on the outside and powered through the Ikeys defense to score a try. The conversion followed, and UJ began to close the gap.   Leading to halftime, UJ had narrowed the deficit to just one point, with the Ikeys leading as the teams headed into the break.   The second half saw FNB UJ come out determined to take control. Bian Janse van Rensburg found a gap in the Ikeys defense and crossed the line to score another try for UJ, keeping the game tight. The conversion was good, and UJ trailed by just three points.   But FNB UCT Ikeys quickly regained the upper hand as Alex Vermeulen carried over the line to score, extending their lead. Despite a solid response from UJ, Ikeys remained clinical in their finishing.   With minutes remaining, Ikeys were awarded a penalty, and Duran Rayn Koevort made no mistake, slotting the ball through the posts to secure the win for the visitors. Watch highlights HERE. SCORERS: FNB UJ:  31 (19) Tries: Sifiso Dlamini, Coun-lee Koekman, Berwyn Bosch, Reuven Ferreira, Bian Janse Van Rensburg. FNB UCT Ikeys: 49 (20) Tries: Rethabile Louw, Danio Botha, Ntokozo Makhaza, Alex Vermeulen, Monray Daars. FNB Player that Impressed: Monray Daars (FNB UCT) TEAMS: FNB UJ: Damian Baker, Francois Prinsloo, Bian Janse van Rensburg, Jaden Ballie, Kamo Molefe, Siyemukela Ndlovu ©, Thabo Mashigo, Dylan Viljoen, Berwyn Bosch, Michail Damon, Ughan Africa, Reuven Ferreria, Sifiso Dlamini, Okwan Oavane, Oela Biaauw. FNB UCT Ikeys: Matthew Beckett, Keagan Blanckenberg ©, Zachary Porthen, Enos Ndiao, Danio Botha, Aiden Norris, Connor Jack Gordon, Aden Da Costa, Monray Daars, Alex Vermeulen, Ntokozo Makhaza, Thomas Nel, Kian Davis, Rethabile Louw, Durran Rayn, Koevort. FNB NWU Eagles 117-19 FNB CUT FNB NWU Eagles secured a convincing victory against FNB CUT Ixias at the Fanie du Toit Sportsground on Monday night, but it wasn’t enough to earn a semi-final spot. FNB CUT Ixias opened the scoring through Zachery Bester, taking a 5-0 lead, but the Eagles quickly responded. Tian van Zyl’s try leveled the score at 5-5 before Ntobeko Shezi and Luan van der Walt’s double extended their advantage to 26-5. Matthew Fortuin, Indiphile Tyeda, and Sean Roulston piled on the points. CUT’s Kevin Strydom scored late to make it 52-12, but the Eagles’ dominance was clear by halftime as they went into the break with a commanding 52-12 lead. FNB NWU Eagles continued their dominance in the second half, quickly extending their lead through Matthew Fortuin and Chyle van Zyl. CUT responded with a try from Raydon Swartbooi, but the Eagles remained relentless, with Guhan du Bois, Luan van der Walt, and Naiden Jaarts adding to the tally. By the 65th minute, the Eagles had reached 100 points, leaving CUT struggling to keep up. Indiphile Tyeda and Tian van Zyl added late tries before Stehan Heymans sealed the emphatic 117-19 victory with a last-minute penalty. SCORERS FNB NWU Eagles:  117 (52) Tries: POR try: Luan Van Der Walt (3), Naiden Jaarts (2), Tian Van Zyl (2), Chyle Van Zyl (2), Mathew Fortuin (2), Ntobeko Shezi, Indiphile Tyeda, Guhan du Bois, Sean Roulston, Sanele Zungu. FNB CUT: 19 (12) Tries: Zachery Bester, Kevin Strydom, Raydon Swartbooi.   FNB Player that Rocks: Ntobeko Shezi  (FNB NWU Eagles) TEAMS FNB NWU Eagles: lethwa Buthelezi, Chyle Van Zyl, Ntobeko Shezi, Tsepo Tlaka, Stephan Krugel, Guhan du Bois, Tian Van Zyl, Sean Roulsto, Sanele Zungu, MJ Mostert, Joubert Shoeman, Isrome Phatudi, Matthew Fortuin, Naiden Jaarts, Luan Van Der Walt. FNB CUT: Mamello Moshoaliba, Tokelo Ntaopane, Sisipho Nofuya, Asekho Marubelela, Kevin Strydom, JT Van Der Walt, Hope Seyaga, Francois Bester (C), Raydon Swartbooi, Matthys Cornelius Malan, Zachery Bester, Jean Swart, Liam Prinsloo, Clive Hartzenberg. Devinto Vergotine. FNB Wits 7-47 FNB Maties FNB Wits were sent packing by a dominant FNB Maties team, who worked hard to secure a commanding 49-7 victory at Wits Rugby Stadium on Monday evening. The visitors delivered a brilliant defensive effort in the first half, keeping Wits scoreless while racking up a 21-0 lead to the disappointment of the home crowd. Despite their best efforts, FNB Wits couldn’t put any points on the board, as the men from Stellenbosch ran rampant. Maties’ first half tries came courtesy of a brace from CJ Erasmus and an incredible solo effort from outside centre Grant de Jager. Inside centre CJ Marx was in fine form with the boot, converting all three tries for the Maroon Machine. The second half saw FNB Maties pick up where they left off, scoring immediately from the kickoff. Scrumhalf Mckyle Volmoer charged down a Wits clearance kick to dot down. The visitors continued to dominate the physical exchanges, making life difficult for Wits. However, the hosts refused to roll over and tested the Maties’ defense, which held firm. FNB Wits were once again guilty of too many errors, which kept them pinned in their own half. Maties hooker CJ Erasmus completed his hat-trick in the second half, while Wits finally got on the board at the death through replacement loose forward Risima Khosa, with Tireque Apolles adding the conversion. By the time the final whistle blew, it was the Maroon Machine who walked away with their heads held high after a resounding 49-7 victory. SCORERS FNB Wits: 7 (0) Tries: Risima Khosa. FNB Maties: 47 (21) Tries: CJ Erasmus (3), Grant De Jager (2), Mckyle Volmoer, Carel van der Merwe. FNB Player that Rocks: Carel van der Merwe (FNB Maties) TEAMS: FNB Wits: Ricardo Brandao, Dagan Meuwese, Sibusiso Shongwe, Thomas Beling, Hayden Munnery, Joshua van Vreden (VC), Luke Cannon, Christopher Kachungunu, Drew Bennet, Matthew Coetzee, Kevon Chirwa, Setshaba Mokoena (C), Ngia Selengbe, Dustyn Holmes Lindani Dweba. FNB Maties: Prince Mulea, CJ Erasmus, Jason Johnson, Zuko Poswa, Carel Van Der Merwe, Fortune Mpofu, Luan Botha, Ethan Snyman, Mykyle Volmoer, Christiaan Van Heerden-Smith, Dylan Miller, CJ Marx, Grant De Jager, Jean-Marc Trichard, Elridge Jack. FNB UP-Tuks 35-48 FNB UFS Shimlas FNB UFS Shimlas had the last say as they claimed a 48-35 victory against FNB UP-Tuks at Tuks Stadium.  The visitors struck first as Jacobus Bezuidenhout opened the scoring from close range and Giddy converts. It didn’t take long as FNB UP-Tuks’ Edwin Till dropped down over the whitewash levelling the score 7-7. At 25 minutes, Shimlas hit back immediately after Nkoka Ngobe dived over for the point of origin try which was converted by flyhalf Bradley Pierre Giddy. Kirwin du Preez silenced the Tuks fans and the Shimlas stretched their lead to 23-7 after 35 minutes. The match went on to the end the first stanza with the visitors leading 23-7. In the second half, the hosts managed to compose themselves and at 44 minutes Hayn Kemp dragged his side bag into the game. After a great support line from his forwards Kemp got the lucky bounce to score a point of origin try for the Stripe Generation, taking the score to 16-23. A back-to-back try for the Stripe Generation, Bayanda Ngubane scored for the log leaders as he cut down the deficit. But Shimlas was not going to sit back as Ben Pitout widened the gap once again. The visitors and defending champions showed why they won the title last year and walked away with all the points at the Capital securing a semi-final spot.   SCORERS FNB UP-Tuks: 35 (7) Tries: Edwin Till, Haydn Kemp, Bayanda Ngubane (2), Ambesa Zenzile. FNB UFS Shimlas:  48 (23) Tries: Jacobus Bezuidenhout, Ben Pitout, Siviwe Zondani, Nkoka Ngobe, Kirwin du Preez, Ramon Uys. FNB Player that Rocks: Ramon Uys (FNB UFS Shimlas) TEAMS: FNB UP-Tuks: Barnard Nortje, Edwin Till, Bom Louw, JW Mare, Roald Hattingh, Kamohelo Tlome, Cayno February, Haydn Kemp, Chad-Lee Valentine, JP Wentzel, Bayanda Ngubane, Keane Galant, Tharquinn Manuel, Ambesa Zenzile, Jandre Burger. FNB UFS Shimlas: Ntokozo Hlope, Jacobus Bezuidenhout, Ben Pitout, Reinier Viljoen, HJ de Beer, Ramon Uys, Marno Stopforth, Liam Shamburg, Hlumelo Klaas, Bradley Pierre Giddy, Siviwe Zondani, Freddie Dreyer, Nkoka Ngobe (c), Kirwin du Preez, Regan Izaks Playoffs: Semi-final 1: FNB Tuks vs FNB UCT, 7 April, 4:45pm at Tuks Stadium Semi-final 2: FNB Maties vs FNB UFS Shimlas, 7 April, 7pm at Danie Craven Stadium.

The round robin stages of the FNB Varsity Cup have come and gone as semifinal spots are confirmed. Defending champions FNB UFS Shimlas marched on to the semis after showing their strong ability by beating FNB UP-Tuks 48-35 in Pretoria. Robbie Fleck's chargers, FNB UCT Ikeys triumphed over FNB UJ after 49-31 in Johannesburg. Despite punishing the Ixias 117-19, FNB NWU Eagles fell short in qualifying for the final four teams' while FNB Maties cruised past FNB Wits to claim the top spot on the log and a home semi-final after a convincing 47-7 win.  Here is our selection for the FNB Players That Impressed during round 7. Ramon Uys (FNB UFS Shimlas) The FNB UFS Shimlas maestro has been vital in the defending champs recent victories, as he did last night against FNB UP-Tuks. Among the try scorers and named the FNB Player that Rocks for the third time for his side, Uys showed resilience and courage, putting his team into the semi-finals.    Ntobeko Shezi (FNB NWU Eagles) Ntobeko Shezi was a powerhouse for FNB NWU Eagles, dominating in both attack and defense. He scored a crucial try, carried the ball strongly, and provided a key offload for Sean Roulston’s try. His physicality and presence in the scrums kept FNB CUT Ixias under pressure.   CJ Erasmus (FNB Maties) Three tries for Maroon Machine hooker CJ Erasmus who was the go to man in the FNB Maties rolling mauls. His line-out accuracy was outstanding and he was often the catalyst of the Maties attack.   Ntokozo Makhaza (FNB UCT Ikeys) The FNB UCT Ikey winger was once again instrumental in their victory, showcasing exceptional composure with his kicking, especially during crucial penalty opportunities. His accuracy from the tee helped maintain the Ikeys’ momentum and keep control of the game. Not to mention, he also secured a try and continues to be heavily involved in playmaking decisions and marshalling the Cape sides attack. Semi-final fixtures HERE .

The final round robin matches of FNB Varsity Cup 2025 are upon us, bringing decisive clashes that will shape the road to the semi-finals and the battle for top-flight survival. By the end of round 7 the top four teams will secure their spots in the semi-finals, edging closer to championship glory. Meanwhile, there are three teams in the relegation hot seat with the Ixias, Orange Army and Witsies all looking to avoid automatic relegation by finishing bottom of the log or finishing in 7th and having to go into a relegation playoff against FNB Madibaz on 5th May to determine their fate. Here are the most crucial outcomes that will determine the semi-final positions and who will host: UP-Tuks and Maties are already guaranteed semi-final spots regardless of Round 7 results. UCT Ikeys are in a strong position on 21 points. They qualify for the semi-finals with: A win or draw, or A losing bonus point (if they lose by 7 or fewer), or A try bonus point (if they score 4+ tries in a loss) Shimlas, currently on 17 points, must win to stay in contention. A win puts them on 21 or 22 points and into the top 4 (depending on bonus points). A draw only brings them to 19 points, this is not enough if NWU wins their match. NWU, currently on 16 points, must win to have a chance: A win with no bonus puts them on 20 points, enough to leapfrog Shimlas if Shimlas don’t win. A win with a bonus point moves them to 21 points, potentially even overtaking UCT if UCT loses without any points. If Shimlas win and UCT gets a point, NWU is out regardless of their result. If all three (UCT, Shimlas, NWU) end up tied on 21 or 22 points, the final semi-final spot(s) will be decided by point difference: NWU and UCT are in a strong position with +77 and +75 Shimlas are at a disadvantage with -22, so they would likely lose a tie-breaker. Shimlas drawing and NWU winning is a particularly important scenario: Shimlas finished on 19 points, NWU on 20 or 21. In this case, NWU qualifies and Shimlas are eliminated. FNB Varsity Cup Relegation Permutation Summary WITS, currently on 5 points, are in 8th and in the automatic relegation zone. To survive, they must: Win their final match (vs Maties), a tough task against a top team. A bonus-point loss or draw is unlikely to be enough unless other teams lose badly. Even if WITS wins, survival depends on how UJ and CUT perform. UJ, currently on 8 points, sit in 7th, which would put them in the relegation playoff if the log stays as is. A win vs UCT would take them to 12 points and almost certainly secure 6th place, keeping them safe. A loss, especially without bonus points, could allow WITS to overtake them if WITS win. Bonus points could be crucial if teams end on equal points, UJ has a better point difference than WITS, but worse than CUT. CUT, currently on 11 points, are in 6th and relatively safe but not immune: A loss vs NWU keeps them at 11 points. If UJ wins and CUT loses, UJ moves to 12 and CUT drops to 7th (relegation playoff). If WITS wins and CUT and UJ both lose badly, CUT could mathematically drop to 7th depending on bonus points and point difference but this is less likely. Point difference will be the tie-breaker if teams finish on equal points: CUT: -72 UJ: -85 WITS: -132 This gives CUT an edge, and puts WITS at a major disadvantage in any tie. Don't miss the round 7 action to find out who advances to the semi's and who faces relegation! FIXTURES AND LOG HERE.

Rhyno Smith's rugby journey, which began in the FNB Varsity Cup, has been a remarkable rise from the university ranks to playing professionally in Europe. Born in Paarl, Western Cape, Smith’s talent quickly caught the eye when he joined FNB NWU for the 2014 FNB Varsity Cup. Although he started only two games that season, his clutch performance in the semi-final, where he kicked a last-minute penalty to secure a 19–18 win over FNB Madibaz, marked his arrival on the national scene. Reflecting on that pivotal moment, Smith says, “I remember the pressure of that penalty. It was a turning point in my career and helped me gain confidence. The Varsity Cup gave me that platform to prove myself, even when I wasn’t a starter.” In 2015, Smith’s role at FNB NWU grew significantly, and he firmly established himself as one of the top players in the competition. Starting all nine matches, he finished the season as the top scorer with 101 points, including a try that was later nominated as the try of the season. Despite the Eagles falling short in the final, Smith’s stellar performances earned him a spot in the FNB Varsity Cup Dream Team and the FNB Player That Rocks award. “Playing in the Varsity Cup was a huge step for me,” Smith admits. “It showcased my versatility and helped me mature as a player, both mentally and physically.” Smith’s impressive performances led to stints with the Free State Cheetahs, the Sharks, and the South African Sevens team in 2018. In 2021, he made the move to Italian club Benetton Treviso, where he has since played over 50 games in the United Rugby Championship. From his humble beginnings in the FNB Varsity Cup to his international success, Rhyno Smith’s story is a testament to the power of the competition in shaping the future of South African rugby.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE By: Adnaan Mohamed.

Defending champions, FNB UFS Shimlas, have shifted their mindset to knockout rugby ahead of their crucial final-round game against the FNB UP-Tuks in the capital city on Monday. The equation is simple for the team from Bloemfontein—win with a bonus point or go home. That’s why they are treating this game as a quarter final. The Shimlas need to earn five points to advance to the semi-finals, or the North-West University Eagles could snatch the last playoff spot. Their 40-26 defeat to the FNB UCT Ikeys in Cape Town on Monday at the Green Mile was certainly a setback, but they can take confidence from securing a crucial bonus point. Coach André Tredoux said that despite the danger of seeing their title defence come to an end on Monday, the team remains upbeat, confident, and determined not to surrender. “I must say, the character of the Shimla boys really stood out towards the end of that game because they had to score three tries in the last 20 minutes to secure that bonus point,” said Tredoux. “Otherwise, we would probably not have had our fate in our own hands. So, the boys are really pumped after getting that four-try bonus point down at Ikeys because now our destiny is in our own hands.” Tredoux admitted that they weren’t at their best, making too many errors and being somewhat caught off guard by the conditions. However, he emphasised that these are the controllable aspects they need to focus on. “We are the Shimlas—we obviously play a quality brand of running rugby. The boys are really excited because they know what’s at stake,” Tredoux added. “The next three weeks are championship weeks, so we’re going to give everything to make them the best possible three weeks. “Basically, we have to win with a bonus point, and then NWU can’t catch us. To keep it in our own hands, we need to win with a bonus point and score four tries. And when the Shimlas play well, we can score four tries.” Monday night’s game in Pretoria is sure to be a thriller, with two of the top sides going head-to-head.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE

FNB UCT Ikeys’ path to FNB Varsity Cup glory is still very much a clear one as the final round of fixtures roll around.  The men from Cape Town currently sit in third place on the standings and still harbor hopes of a home semi-final, although their destiny on that front doesn’t lie in their own hands. The Ikey Tigers travel to eighth placed FNB UJ in the early kick off and have the chance to reach a third successive semi-final, should they leave Joburg with maximum points. One man who’ll be key to their cause is electric scrumhalf, Asad Moos. The 21-year-old Social Sciences student has been in fine form this season, helping his side to a 100% record at the Green Mile. Moos represented the Junior Boks in last year’s World Rugby U20 Championship, an experience that increased his appetite to become a professional. “I learned valuable lessons not just as a player but off the field as a person as well and what it takes to play at the highest level. It was a massive privilege to play for the Junior Boks and it just gave me a taste of what professional rugby is about and made me want more of it.” The dynamic half-back admitted he “enjoys” the pressure of being expected to perform. “⁠There’s always going to be pressure to perform – I think it comes with the job but I enjoy that challenge of knowing that I’m expected to perform at a high level whenever I step onto the field,” said Moos. The belief in the UCT camp is at an all-time high that they’ll get the job done at the third time of asking. “⁠I can’t imagine losing three finals in a row, so I’d like to think third times a charm as you said but I don’t want to jinx anything. At the moment, we just looking to take it one game at a time and not looking too far ahead but I do believe we have what it takes”. Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE By: Kieryn Thompson

The spirit in the FNB CUT Ixias camp remains high and upbeat despite the Bloemfontein-based team fighting for their survival in the FNB Varsity Cup. The Ixias started their campaign like a house on fire, securing back-to-back wins against UJ (29-13) and UCT Ikeys (23-19) in the first two rounds. However, injuries and suspensions to key players took their toll, causing the wheels to come off somewhat. Despite a win against FNB Wits last week the Ixias remain in a position where they may have to contest the relegation play-off should they lose to the Eagles on Monday and UJ win their fixture. Ixias coach Randall Modiba admitted that the loss to their city rivals was a setback, but he has seen plenty of positives from his team, which gives him confidence. “The positive is that we are improving as a group of players, as a team, and in our combinations. The spirit in the camp is very high, and we are looking forward to Monday's game." “We are disappointed that we let down our fans, who showed up in numbers at UFS on Monday. A good result was really on the cards, but I am so proud of the boys. Considering what they’ve been through, and even in the build-up to the game, they responded incredibly well.” Despite the setbacks caused by injuries, the Ixias may have unearthed a gem in their new flyhalf, MC (Matthys) Malan. He has taken charge of the backline like a seasoned pro, despite not being a pivot and having only recently been converted to the position. His performances have already caught the attention of Cheetahs coach Frans Steyn. Modiba believes the youngster has a bright future ahead of him, and this is another one of the positives. “A guy like MC Malan is a versatile player, and that’s why we picked him to fill the massive boots left by Juan Smith. “MC is a brilliant rugby player. There are still a lot of work-ons, and he understands that. Playing flyhalf is new for him – he prefers outside centre, wing, or fullback. But he is so versatile and has such great vision for the game that we backed him and showed confidence in him.” On Monday, the Ixias face FNB NWU away in must-win encounter for both teams in Potchefstroom. The Eagles need a win to remain in contention for a semi-final spot while FNB CUT want to steer clear of the relegation zone playoff match if they finish in 7th spot on the log.     Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE

Last round of FNB Varsity Shield had semi-finalists decided as the FNB Varsity College Comets secured their promotion into the FNB Varsity Cup with a 41-29 FNB WSU win against FNB WSU. FNB Madibaz secured a semi-final place after a 45-27 victory over FNB CPUT and booked a spot in the FNB Varsity Cup promotion-relegation match. FNB UWC left until the last minute to defeat the Gemmies 57-40 while FNB UKZN Impi finished bottom of the log and will have to decide their fate in a relegation playoff against the top USSA side later in the year after losing to FNB UFH 36-17.   Here is our selection for standout players from round 7.   Lwando Davane (FNB Madibaz) The FNB Madibaz centre was a tower of strength in the midfield. Time and time again he stopped FNB CPUT’s runners dead in their tracks, whether in the tight loose or when the backs tried to spread the ball out wide. He will be a big player for his side come semi-final time and beyond.   Romauld Nsombamanya (FNB UWC) Romauld Nsombamanya, led an incredible comeback. His patients led him and his team to victory. Scoring four tries, he led by example and clinched victory as well as the FNB Player That Rocks award.   Sinalo Jivana (FNB UFH) Sinalo Jivana kicked his team into victory. The backs of the Blues were really good. They completely shut down the FNB UKZN with beautiful defending. He earned the FNB Player That Rocks award for his efforts.   Frederick Marx (FNB Varsity College) Drico Marx   has been a consistent performer for the Comets and once again played a beautiful match to marshall his team to victory and secure promotion to the FNB Varsity Cup next season. He scored a try, netted four conversions with one penalty under his belt on the night to sink FNB WSU.