All eyes were on FNB Tuks in the first round of the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield as the Pretoria outfit began their fight to return to the Varsity Cup. Kamohele Tlome put in a sterling performance in the thrashing of FNB UFH that earned him the Player That Rocks accolade. The flanker from the Stripe Generation says rugby changed his life. His patience and resilience have finally paid off as he waited three years to make his Varsity Cup debut since joining the Tuks Young Guns in 2021. “Rugby got me out of a lot of personal situations at home and (it) allowed me to get a tertiary education. Now I am in my final year of BCom Marketing Management and everything is going well. I can’t be more grateful.” Tlome says it was his older brother who made him fall in love with rugby as he used to watch him play when he was still in primary school. “I fell in love with rugby when I was in Grade 1 because of my older brother. The age gap is 7 years and watching him play for the under-13s, I wanted to be him, and watching (the) Springboks play on SABC 2, I was like ‘This is what I want’.” Tlome’s rugby career started moving in the right direction when was chosen to play for the Griffons under-13s. His talent then landed him a scholarship with Jeppe High School for Boys where he spent his entire high school period. His career blossomed when he got to represent the Lions under-18s in the Craven Week when he was only in Grade 11. Playing for the Lions under-18 side, Tuks spotted him and Tlome says he is extremely grateful for the opportunities he’s been given. “I’ve always rated Tuks as a formidable side where my skills can develop. When I arrived in 2021 it was high pressure. They had guys like Sango Xamlashe and Hanru Sirgil setting the bar high and I did not think I would make it. I played for the Young Guns in 2021, I managed to get to the Bulls but unfortunately, I got injured in 2022. And then 2023 did not go as planned, we felt the pressure with what the team went through last year.” by Lehlogonolo Ditshego

DHL Stormers head coach John Dobson describes the FNB Varsity Cup as a superb competition that serves as a massive safety net that allows South Africa’s considerable rugby talent to be spread more equitably. ‘Dobbo’ as he is affectionately known, famously guided the Stormers to Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) glory in the 2021-2022 season. He believes he would not have been the current Stormers head coach, had it not been for the FNB Varsity Cup competition. The 54-year-old former hooker coached the FNB UCT Ikey Tigers for their first three seasons in the Varsity Cup from 2008 to 2010. He guided them to the final in the inaugural 2008 season, where they lost to Western Cape rivals FNB Maties and helped them reach the playoffs again in 2009, losing 17–19 to FNB NWU Pukke in the semi-final. He returned as a technical adviser to his former assistant Kevin Foote for the Tigers' 2011 Varsity Cup campaign, which they won for the first time, beating FNB UP Tuks 26–16 in the final. Dobbo therefore believes the Varsity Cup plays a key role in the development of players as well as coaches both locally and internationally. “Yes, when I started as coach of the Ikeys in Varsity Cup, Matthew Proudfoot (former Scotland prop and NWU coach, who became a World Cup-winning Springbok forwards coach) and I coached against each other in 2008,”  says Dobson. “For me the Varsity Cup is a massive safety net for guys who haven’t been identified at Craven Week.  You often get guys who played under 13 to under 19 at Grant Khomo and Craven Week youth tournaments. The coaches know them because they got the tracksuits. It’s quite hard for an outsider to break into the system unless the player is really good,” explains Dobson. “You get two types of players, for example a player like (Stormers centre) Sulaiman (Hartzenberg) was already earmarked to play for the Stormers while he was still at school. “Jurie Matthee (who made his URC debut for the Stormers at flyhalf against the Sharks in Durban) didn’t play Craven Week when he was at Paarl Gymnasium, so he didn’t make it at school level. “From that point of view, the Varsity Cup makes the South African ecosystem much fairer for guys who did not make it at school level. “The magic with a player like Jurie Matthee is that we would never have known about him if he didn't play Varsity Cup. Stormers lock Connor Evans is another example. “In my days coaching at UCT, there were guys like Matthew Roslee, Kyle Brown and Don Armand who were nowhere on the professional radar, but because of the Varsity Cup, they went on to bigger things. “More recently players from Maties like Neethling Fouche (Stormers captain and tight-head prop) and  Andre-Hugo Venter (hooker) were both called up to the Springbok-squad. Marcel Theunissen (loose forward) and JJ Kotze (hooker) were also not contracted when they came down here. “Western Province did not bring them here, but they came here to play in the Varsity Cup. It’s massive for WP because at UCT, UWC, CPUT and Maties you have these sorts of mini academies that help with the development of talent.” Dobson is also impressed by the current defending Varsity Cup Champions, the NWU Eagles’ (previously known as the Pukke) recruitment policy. “Pukke are such a good team. They have a policy of not contracting SA Schools or even Craven Week players. It’s so cool because it makes the spread of South Africa’s rugby talent more equitable,” says Dobson. “World Cup-winning Springbok-scrumhalf Herschel Jantjies in 2019 in Japan and Springbok-winger Kurt-Lee Arendse last year in France are perfect examples of players who both made their mark in the Varsity Cup for UWC before they became Springboks,” adds Dobson. by Adnaan Mohamed

As someone who has had his fair share of professional rugby, receiving a call-up from the Griquas to feature in the 2022 Currie Cup, FNB UJ’s Prince Nkabinde says FNB Varsity Cup has prepared him for playing in the higher leagues. “The Varsity Cup is quite an unbelievable platform for players to express themselves. It’s a short tournament, it’s semi-pro. It prepares you and is not that far from Currie Cup level.” When Nkabinde’s contract with Griquas came to an end, UJ coach Johnathan Mokenua had the foresight that his return to the Orange Army would be a great opportunity. “He gave me a call. I didn’t know what I was going to do afterwards, whether I was going to the Varsity Cup, but he gave me an opportunity. I didn’t have two minds about it, I just told him straight that ‘Ja, I’m keen on coming back’,” says Nkabinde. Having a coach of the calibre of Mokenua, who has played professionally himself, has been one of the factors that influenced him, says Nkabinde. “He played sevens professionally, has a lot of caps and coached Pukke (Eagles) in 2016 to win the Varsity Cup. I’ve learned a lot from him.” The winger says coming back to the Varsity Cup after his stint in the Currie Cup has been a seamless transition. “It was just a year of difference where I left UJ in 2021 and came back in 2023. Rugby stays rugby, it’s just a matter of differentiating if it’s semi-pro or professional. It was easy for me to adapt and coming back was just second nature for me.” by Karabo Peter

FNB UCT Ikeys captain Luthando Woji has applauded the team's leadership abilities amongst the players in the squad. Woji, who has been leading the Cape Town-based side for a few seasons, believes the team's strength has resulted in where they are now. "Pre-season was tough but necessarily so. The [opening] win was big for our confidence as a team, it was not a perfect game but the ability to win when not at your best is a good characteristic to have as a team.” Ikeys grinded out a 38-32 away win over FNB UFS Shimlas in their first match, and Woji says it was a promising start. "It is always tough to play away but the boys showed a lot of character to get a win. This team will always fight. We are looking forward to continuing our pursuit to improve as a team in our next game." Woji says having many leaders in the squad is making this easier for everyone. "⁠Modern-day teams are led by leadership groups, I couldn’t play in the first week due to injury but Johan [Lombard] stepped up and led the team superbly. "So to say that I’m the sole leader of this team is incorrect, we’ve got a strong leadership group that does very well in each of their departments. "And what  motivates me the most is trying to leave a tangible impact on the club as it has done that for me." by Ayanda Frances Felem

Despite getting their 2024 FNB Varsity Cup campaign off on a winning start against FNB UWC, FNB Wits suffered a huge loss with captain Ngia Selengbe being ruled out for the rest of the competition through injury. The leadership role has been taken over by loose forward Cal Smid who has donned the Witsies jersey for six years.  Cal brings an arsenal of experience, having already represented the Golden Lions and Tel Aviv Heat. Varsity Cup got the opportunity to catch up with the 24-year-old Smid, to chat about what the team wants to achieve in this year’s competition. What is Wits looking to accomplish this season? Wits is looking to win the Varsity Cup for the first time. How did you adapt to becoming captain, after the injury to Ngia? As one of the older heads, I brought the team in and said we have to win this game on behalf of our captain. We pulled together in a very positive manner to put together a big second half [against UWC]. What brand of rugby is Wits looking to play this season? Wits is looking to play an exciting brand of attacking rugby while being strict in our approach to the defense structures that are in place. How have the preparations been different in aiding the team in progressing further this time around? There has been assistance from different coaches in professional teams that have helped with forming a strong foundation to build upon. We have youth that is the driving force and that has created a healthy desire to work hard for one another. Any message you’d like to share with Wits supporters, especially about home games? We are an eager team and hungry to bring success to the university. All our home games are very important to us, in saying, your support as a 16th man on the field for us will help our team be successful. by S’fiso Nyawo

Round 2 of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup brought a mixed bag of results. FNB NWU Eagles dominated their encounter against FNB UWC, FNB Wits staged a dramatic comeback against FNB CUT and FNB Maties won the Cape derby against FNB UCT Ikeys. Here are some of the standout players from round 2. Prince Nkabinde  (FNB UJ) Despite a narrow loss at home against FNB UFS Shimlas, the Orange Army’s Prince Nkabinde was a real livewire for his side. He covered a lot of ground throughout the match, scoring two tries in the process and becoming the all time leading try scorer for UJ. He was also named as the FNB Player That Rocks. Setshaba Mokoena (FNB Wits) The full-back played a vital role in the Witsies’ come-from-behind victory against CUT. He was dangerous with ball in hand and this led to a fantastic try. He also contributed with the boot (three conversions and a penalty). Mokoena was also solid under the high balls the opponents lobbed his way. Keano Windvogel (FNB NWU Eagles) The winger bagged a brace and was duly named as the FNB Player That Rocks showing sheer brilliance on the field with unmatched pace and skill. His quick footwork resulted in two tries for himself and kept the UWC defenders guessing throughout. Windvogel consistently gained ground and was crucial for his team. Juan Mostert (FNB Maties) Playing in the number 10 jersey, Mostert slotted a conversion and a penalty in a tightly contested affair against UCT. His five-point contribution was the difference in the end. He shared his thoughts after the match: “We came here with a plan, and we managed to stay on that, plus we executed everything well. UCT is a great tough side, personally doing well against a team like them boosts my confidence even more.” For next week’s fixtures, click HERE.

For a player who only started playing competitive rugby in high school, FNB WSU captain Awonke Sondishe has enjoyed a significant rise over the last couple of years. A product of Port Rex Technical High School in East London, Sondishe, a second-year sports management student at the Buffalo City Campus, was handed the captain’s armband in his very first year wearing the All Blacks jersey. He looks back fondly on where it all started for him. “I fell in love with rugby by watching the older guys in my neighbourhood playing touch rugby, which was very popular. With time they eventually allowed us to play with them and I remember being taught by one of the older guys how to spin pass a rugby ball and from then on I fell head over heels in love with the sport.” Sondishe can indeed be referred to as a journeyman in the backline, owing to the number of positions he has played - from wing to flyhalf, scrumhalf, full back, before eventually settling on the outside centre position. Being somewhat of a moving piece over the years, it’s hardly surprising that Sondishe draws parallels between rugby and chess. “I love how the game of rugby is played like a strategic chess game where every touch and every move is done to break through defensive lines, one wave of attack after the other. I just simply love the artistry, physicality and flair of the sport of rugby.” Following WSU’s bonus point win over FNB UKZN in the opening week of the 2024 Varsity Shield competition, the skipper reaffirmed his sentiments earlier during the capping ceremony that the team would make their mark this season. by Thando Cezula

The first goal for the newly elected FNB NWU Eagles captain Stephan Krugel is to make sure his team successfully defend the title they won in the 2023 FNB Varsity Cup competition. Then he is shooting for the ultimate – wearing the Green and Gold. He opened up about his goal to play for the Springboks, leading the team and other challenges in rugby. How did you get into rugby and which players have inspired you? It started in primary school when I was in grade 1. In the beginning, I was doing a lot of sports but rugby just kind of stuck with me and now my life revolves around it. There have been a few that have had an impact on me, someone like Pieter-Steph du Toit is a good example. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your rugby career so far? At the current moment, it’s academics because I’m studying for a degree that demands a lot, a BSc in Agriculture in Soil Science. Rugby is also demanding a lot so it’s about finding the balance between the two and giving everything to both of them. What is your goal in rugby? For this campaign, it is to go back-to-back in winning the Varsity Cup. And my long-term goal is to play for the Springboks. I don’t know what the journey is for me to get there but I know every player has a different journey to follow and different routes to get there. How do you feel about being the captain of the team? Karl-Heinz Bertram was supposed to be the captain team but he got injured in our last warm-up match. I feel like Coach Burger and the team trust me to take on the position. I’m excited about it and I have been a captain for a few teams before in my life so I’m looking forward to the challenge. I’m also coming after Sampie and it is a huge shoes to fill because he’s a legend who was captain for many matches but I believe you should not compare yourself to other people because we bring different qualities. What kind of leadership skills do you bring to the team? I think I bring calmness in difficult situations, during heated moments I can stay calm and communicate well with the referee or my teammates which has a huge influence on how the game proceeds. I believe my communication skills can help the team as I also know how to be vocal and take the team forward. by Lesiba Dikhoba

New recruit S’bulelo Roji has had to move out of his comfort zone to forge a new one with FNB Madibaz for the 2024 Varsity Shield competition. The burly prop, who tips the scales at 127kg, had no hesitation in accepting head coach David Manuel’s offer to link up with the Madibaz after previously playing for FNB WSU. Manuel has been looking for more bulk upfront to cater for the physical demands of Varsity Shield and found just that in the 24-year-old. Roji, playing in his third Varsity Shield, says his philosophy is to improve by exposing himself to new ideas, which is why the move to the Gqeberha team made sense. “If the truth be told, as a person you need to change an environment to achieve an upgrade in your life. Luckily, I made contact with the head coach and he warmly welcomed me into the fold.” He acknowledges the role of Manuel, who guides them not only to be better players but better at life. Roji’s previous Varsity Shield experience comes with some painful memories after his erstwhile team finished runners-up to CPUT in 2021 and lost in the semis to Fort Hare the following year. The Bhisho native only found rugby as a teenager after initially spending his time on football fields and cricket ovals. “There was a year where the youth in my community was so fascinated by the sport of rugby like it was peer pressure. We mostly played touch rugby and, although I didn’t have much of a background in the sport, one thing I can say is that this exposure played a big role in bringing me to the sport.” Roji polished his game in the Sunday Rugby League at the University of Fort Hare and it was not long before getting the nod from the first team. “At that stage, I knew nothing about Craven Week or Varsity Shield and I just played for the love of the game,” he says. Mentors, such as late coach Sipho Metula who took him under his wing during his first year at WSU, began to emerge and shaped him into the player he is today. “He introduced me to a lot of things that involved rugby and the brotherhood of the sport.” Roji started as a loose forward before coach Akhona Mgijima converted him into a tighthead prop in 2021. “Since I am a big lad, I always had an edge to be a good ball carrier and I feel that I am fairly quick for my weight.”

The life of a student-athlete is not always easy but knowing that your talents can alleviate the pressure that most students face eases this challenging journey. Philip Apea Adu who stars in his fifth FNB Varsity Cup says playing in the tournament has lifted some weight off his shoulders due to a sports bursary awarded by the University of Johannesburg since his first year. “It does so much for a person knowing that you can solely focus on rugby without that stress of wondering if my fees are paid. So being able to play Varsity Cup and being on a bursary helped take that weight off my shoulders,” says Adu. “It gives me a sense that I am being looked after and supported. It’s a humbling feeling looking at the people around you and what they have to go through.” Adu’s journey in the Varsity Cup started in 2020 after his two-year contract with the Lions came to an end. “It was during COVID [lockdown] when I found out I would no longer be with the Lions. For me, it was a discouraging point in my life being young and thinking that certain things can last forever.” The following year the tournament took place in a bio-bubble. Abu says playing behind closed doors was the moment he seized the opportunity to boost his rugby career. “I took full opportunity of that platform, and it really gave my rugby confidence a boost and got me back in the full swing of things. Being able to play and train again made up for the discouragement I felt.” The towering lock finished his undergrad degree in BCom Accounting last year and is now pursuing his Honours in Internal Auditing. “Being able to complete my degree last year, was a moment where I was like I had achieved something real. If you want to continue playing rugby, Varsity Cup is an amazing platform to continue that journey while getting the benefit of studying towards a degree.” by Karabo Peter

Defending champions NWU Eagles are continuing on their winning ways in the 2024 Varsity Cup following a drubbing of newcomers FNB UWC in round 2. In other matches, FNB Wits scored a solid victory over FNB CUT, FNB Shimlas travelled to beat FNB UJ and FNB Maties won the Cape derby against FNB UCT Ikeys. FNB NWU 49 – 15 FNB UWC FNB NWU Eagles continued on their unbeaten start to this year’s competition with a dominant performance against FNB UWC at the Fanie du Toit Sports Ground in Potchefstroom. At the start of the match, Conwill Conradie failed to capitalise with a penalty for UWC and minutes later Franco Marais opened the scoring for the Eagles following a lineout and driving maul. The home side showed dominance with tries by Keano Windvogel and Calvin Clack. The Eagles’ tight-head prop Ntobeko Shezi extended the lead for his side with a try with Zinedine Robinson converting to put them 30-0 in the lead at half-time. In the second half, the home side lost Shaun-Christian Baxter, Chyle van Zyl and Tian van Zyl to the sin bin and momentum swang UWC’s way when Emile Silvis opened the scoring for his side. However, the home side showed why they’re champions with Windvogel scoring another try to make it 37-5. Late tries by Carel Van Der Verwe and Ruben Swanepoel for UWC made up some ground. But NWU wasn’t done yet as Windvogel and Marvelous Mashimbyi crossed the try line again to seal an emphatic victory at home. SCORERS: FNB NWU 49 (30) - Tries: Calvin Clack, Keano Windvogel (2), Ntobeko Shezi, Shaun-Christian Baxter (2). Marvelous Mashimbyi. Conversions: Zinedine Robinson (5), Charles Williams. FNB UWC 15 (0) - Tries: Emile Silvis, Carel Van Der Merwe, Ruben Swanepoel. FNB Player That Rocks: Keano Windvogel (FNB NWU) TEAMS FNB NWU: Matome Molebogeng Manyama, Chyle Van Zyl, Ntobeko Thabiso Shezi, Stephan Krugel, Franco Marais, Hennie du Randt, Tian Van Zyl, Calvin Clack, Aphelele Emihle Madaka, Zinedine Robinson, Naiden Jaarts, Arnoldus Christiaan Vlok, Matthew Luke Fortuin, Keano Ricardo Windvogel, Shaun-Christian Baxter. FNB UWC: Hlonela Qelile, Joshua Eras Eras, Keanuh Cameron Michaels, Michail Kasfikis, Carel Van der Merwe, Romuad Nsombamanya, Louan De Lange, Tyrone Farren Maritz, Conwill Brooklyn Conradie, Nhlamulo Emmanuel Shilubane, Hlomla Ncana, Bryan John Breda, Emile Silvis, Will Bradford Vraagom, Jean Jacques van Schalkwyk. FNB MATIES 15 – 10 FNB UCT IKEYS It was FNB Maties who walked away smiling after a gutsy win over UCT Ikeys at the Green Mile in Cape Town. Facing heavy wind, the Ikey Tigers fought hard to stop the Maties pack who held the home side tight in their 22-metre area. Both sides showed gutsy performances as the wind continued to blow at the Green Mile, something that seemed to be the difference on the field with no scores to show after 15 minutes of play. Seven minutes before half-time, the Maroon Machine finally took advantage as winger Matthew Emile van Schalkwyk ran through the Tigers’ wall to dive under the poles. The try came just a few minutes after flyhalf Juan Mostert slotted a penalty. The Cape Winelands side took a comfortable 10-0 lead as the game headed to the end of the first stanza. Ikeys Tigers winger Ntokozo Makhaza gave the home fans hope as he scored a penalty after Maties were penalised for being offside, taking the score to 10-3. Maties extended their lead to 15-3 with nine minutes left courtesy of a try by loosehead prop Vernon Matongo. Ikeys retaliated in the final minutes when Jonathan Roche scored a try and Makhaza converted. SCORERS: FNB MATIES 15 (10) - Tries: Matthew Emile van Schalkwyk, Vernon Matongo. Conversions: Juan Mostert. Penalties: Juan Mostert. FNB UCT IKEYS 10 (0) - Tries: Jonathan Roche. Conversions: Ntokozo Makhaza. Penalties: Ntokozo Makhaza. FNB Player That Rocks: Mckyle Volmoer (FNB Maties) TEAMS FNB UCT Ikeys: Mhleli Khethuxolo Khuzwayo, Keagan Blanckenberg, Bryan Justin Le Roux, Enos Ndiao, Johan van Rhyn, Siphumezo Dyonase, Reynhardt Crous, Taariq Mohammed Kruger, Riaan Genis, Joshua Boulle, Ntokozo Sibusiso Makhaza, Jonathan Roche, Rethabile Donovan Louw, Luke John Burger, Duran Ryan Koevort. FNB Maties: Prince Rotondwa Mulea, Siyasanga Ngubelanga, Friedrich Cornelius Weilbach, Matthys Jacobus Bernardus Kitshoff, Matthew Gray, Eric Chris Basson, Louw Nel, Roland Leonard van der Heever, Mckyle Volmoer, Juan Mostert, Matthew Emile Van Schalkwyk, Aydon Colin Topley, Hofmeyr Gideon Retief, Ryan Marcus Manuel, Louis Johannes du Preez. FNB UFS SHIMLAS 34 – 31 FNB UJ FNB UJ fell to their second consecutive loss when they went down to the visiting FNB UFS Shimlas at the UJ Stadium in Johannesburg. The Orange Army struck first through a try by Marius Coetzee after continued pressure. The game was interrupted in the 11th minute when heavy rain forced the players off the field. Shortly after the game resumed Michael Annies broke through the UJ defensive line to give UFS a try as they levelled the score. The Orange Army’s Prince Nkabinde broke the deadlock after overturned possession. Shimlas responded within minutes when Pierre-Raymond Uys dived over behind a driving maul. The visitors managed to score back-to-back tries when Frank Dos Reis extended their lead just before the break leaving the home side trailing 12-15. UJ came back stronger in the second half when a Likhona Finca try ensured they took a narrow two-point lead. Nkabinde scored his brace within minutes. The 64th minute was the turning point of the game when Siyambuka Ningiza went over the try line to give Shimlas the lead. A try by Siviwe Zondani ensured the visitors walked away with maximum points. The UJ bench was on the edge of their seats as Benjamin Moya’s try closed out the game, ensuring they got a bonus point in defeat. SCORERS: FNB UJ 31 (12) – Tries: Marius Coetzee, Prince Nkabinde (2), Likhona Finca, Benjamin Moya. Conversions: Rowan Malgas (2). FNB UFS SHIMLAS 34 (15) – Tries: Michael Annies, Pierre Raymond Uys, Frank Dos Reis, Siyambuka Ningiza, Siviwe Zondani. Conversions: Ethan Wentzel (2). FNB Player That Rocks: Prince Nkabinde (FNB UJ) TEAMS: FNB UJ: Roedolf Fouche Schoeman, Mauritz Swart, Heiko Peter Eugene Pohlmann, Tiaan Wessels, Marius Coetzee, Testimony Boluwatife Dodo, Philip Apea Adu, Kamohelo Rorisang Molefe, Kgothatso Sono, Rowan Malgas, Prince Nkabinde, Siphesihle Austin Nkabini, Meyer Kriel, Boldwin Hansen. FNB UFS Shimlas: William Conley Pieterse, Liyema Mgwigwi, Riaan Jacobus van der Merwe, Pierre-Raymond Uys, Katlego Khumo Lobakeng, Cornelius Hermanus Smit Volschenk, Siyambuka Sobe Nakhane Ningiza, Kwezi Dlamini, Jandré Nel, Ethan SJ Wentzel, Siviwe Zondani, Gideon Jooste Nel, Zane Bester, Kirwin Curtley Du Preez, Michael Annies. FNB WITS 34 – 17 FNB CUT FNB Wits fought back from a half-time deficit to score their second victory of the season when they beat FNB CUT in front of an excited home crowd in Johannesburg. The first half saw a slow start from both teams, as they tried to get used to the slightly wet conditions. Passes went astray and the visitors looked more comfortable early on. CUT winger Zachery Bester found himself with acres of space out wide, picking up a pass and racing to dot down within five minutes. CUT flyhalf Juan Smith was successful with the conversion but he exceeded his kicking time, and it was disallowed. He was on time with his first penalty though. The hosts, after making a few attempts, were finally rewarded with fullback Setshaba Mokoena slotting a penalty to make it 3-8. Smith added two more penalties for CUT before Wits’ captain fantastic Cal Smid crossed over for a try. The men from the Free State led 14-8 at half-time. The second half saw a different Wits running on to the pitch, scoring four tries in the process with Kabelo Mokhethi, Marno Grobbelaar, Kivon Chirwa and Setshaba Mokoena crossing the try line. CUT looked somewhat stunned, failing to keep the Witsies at bay. The visitors did however manage to add three points to their tally, through the boot of Smith. SCORERS: FNB WITS 34 (8) - Tries: Cal Smid, Kabelo Mokhethi, Marno Grobbelaar, Kivon Chirwa, Setshaba Mokoena. Conversions: Setshaba Mokoena (3). Penalties: Setshaba Mokoena FNB CUT 17 (14) - Tries: Zachery Bester. Penalties: Juan Smith (3). FNB Player That Rocks: George Devenish (FNB Wits) TEAMS FNB Wits: Ronan Dutton, Marno Grobbelaar, Sibusiso Shongwe, George Lawson St Leger Devenish, Cal Smid, Kelvin Kanenungo, Dewet-Grant Fourie, Lindokuhle Ncusane, Mogamad Hassiem Pead, Kabelo Mokhethi, Kevon Nathan Simphiwe Chirwa, Mark Dilan Snyman, Liyema Matyolweni, Dustyn Matthew Holmes, Setshaba Mohlakoane Mokoena. FNB CUT: Albertus Human Venter, Tokelo Oratile Ntaopane, Sisipho Nofuya, Asekho Phindile Marubelela, Kevin Strydom, Tjaart Jurie Van der Walt, Tsebano Edward Stemer, Jacobus Johannes Cloete, Triveno Swartz, Juan Arnold Smith, Zachery Bester, Septimus Dercksen, Liam Prinsloo, Adielson Gouveia, Natanael Young.

The opening round of FNB Varsity Shield saw newcomers Varsity College make a statement with a shut out win over the TUT Vikings while former Cup champions FNB Tuks started slowly and then overpowered UFH in Alice. Here's the matchday wrap. FNB WSU 35 – 21 FNB UKZN FNB WSU used their home-ground advantage at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium to get a solid victory over FNB UKZN. After leading 21-11 at halftime, they added 14 more points to walk away with the maximum. WSU would draw first blood after 15 minutes thanks to a classic rolling maul converted try by hooker, Mangaliso Zixesha. UKZN would quickly hit back with a penalty converted by UKZN flyhalf Minentle Mfanelo Ngcamu-Ngcamu before the All Blacks scored again through another converted try by captain, Awonke Sondishe. Zixesha would get his brace in the 27th minute from a lineout maul, but the UKZN forward pack would also prove immense as Wela-Aphumelele Mnata Takata, crossed the whitewash thanks to a ferocious rolling maul in the 33rd minute. The home team would add another try to their tally as speedy fullback Lukhangele Tshayi cantered under the posts following a sweeping move from the All Blacks backline. Following a red card for a dangerous tackle by WSU eight man, UKZN immediately took full advantage as they hit back in the 58th minute with a try by Tinotenda Mazhindu. The topsy-turvy affair would continue as All Blacks right winger Simthembile Zozi crossed the whitewash once again to take the score to 35 – 16 before a desperate break by UKZN would see the visitors score the last try of the match to see the score finish at 35 – 21 on the night. SCORERS: FNB WSU 35  (21) - Tries:  Mangaliso Zixesha (2); Awonke Sondishe; Lukhangele Tshayi; Simthembile Zozi. Conversions & Penalties Maxwell Klaasen FNB UKZN 21 (11) - Tries: Wela Takata; Tinotenda Mazhindu; Singele Mkhize. Penalties & Converstions: Minentle Ncamu FNB Player That Rocks: Mangaliso Zixesha (FNB WSU) TEAMS: FNB WSU: Sinethemba Zwelonke, Mangaliso Zixesha, Ayabonga Spelt, Lutho Mampunye, Kamva Tetani, Khanya Solani, Hlomla Mihlali Payi, Esethu Zenani, Esenam Mniki, Maxwell Klaasen, Bulelani Amyoli Nondlwana, Hlumelo Zitha, Awonke Sondishe, Simthembile Zozi, Lukhangele Tshayi. FNB UKZN: Mumbo Nzama, Qhawe Nxumalo, Ulrich Walker, Mthomboyolo Buzani, Nhlakanipho Mathonsi, Wilhelm Fenske, Wela Takata, Tinotenda Mazhindu, Zak Smith, Minenhle Ngcamu, Kwandile Mthethwa, Russell Fick, Singele Mkhize, Ntobeko Mhlongo, Cham Zondeki. FNB UFH 0 - 36  FNB UP-Tuks In a commanding display, FNB Tuks dominated the encounter against FNB UFH, securing a comprehensive 36-0 victory. The Pretoria-based team wasted no time making their mark as they opened their Varsity Shield account in the 9th min with Keane Galant blazing past the home sides’ backline to get the ball rolling. The visitors scored their second try in the 30th minute with a fantastic inside out by Hilton Gie and the score line remained that way at the break with UFH unable to find a way through. The second half saw Tuks maintain their momentum with hooker Allister Williams picking up a brace from the back of aggressive mauls. With a bonus point in the bag the Stripe Generation showed no signs of letting up as Ethan Burger crossed the line from a scrum at close range, securing the team's fifth try. The former FNB Varsity Cup champions showcased their authority and skill, shutting out FNB UFH with a dazzling second-half display to begin their campaign with a convincing away win. SCORERS: FNB UFH 0  (0) - Tries: None FNB UP-Tuks 36 (14) - Tries: Keane Galant, Hilton Gie, Allister Noel Williams (2), Ethan Burger FNB Player That Rocks: Kamohelo Tlome (FNB Tuks) TEAMS: FNB UFH: Mesuli Nzima, Kamvelihle Fatyela, Mbasa Babele, Mpho Ramahala, Cinga Nqotyana, Anda Simanga, Kamvelihle Gcweka, Yanga Gazi, Sinalo Jivana, Apiwe Sidloyi, Okuhle Pangwa, Lakheni Majali, Ryan Maree, Salusiwe Gxekwa, Cyril Mphatsoe, Bunono Jamani, Buhlebethu September, Bulela Magopeni, Liyema Tonjeni, Chulumanco Boya, Cwenga Makwati, Lukhanyo Ntontela, Sibusiso Javu FNB UP-Tuks: Ethan Burger, Allister Williams, Dian Coetzee, Johannes Marè, Roald Hattingh, Kamohelo Tlome, Hilton Gie, Marco Venter, Chad-Lee Valentine, Jean-Pierre Wentzel, Nqubeko Mkwanazi, Keane Galant, Zander Reynders, Bayanda Ngubane, Tharquinn Manuel, Henry Till, Bambolunye Dlamini, Jacobus Louw, Cayno February, Jonathan Smit, Daimon O’Connell, Kyle Cyster, Kobus Janse van Rensburg. FNB CPUT  7 - 21 FNB Madibaz A clinical and all-around disciplined performance by FNB Madibaz saw them edge FNB CPUT, 7-21, in the opening round of the FNB Varsity Shield in Bellville. The Cape side were at disadvantage early on when hooker, Lihle Kula, got red carded for a dangerous tackle in the opening quarter of the match. Kehan Myburgh brought his kicking boots and slotted four of his five first-half attempts at goal. He converted Kyle Erasmus' 15th minute try, which handed Madibaz a 0-13 lead as the halftime approached. The sides headed into the sheds following a third penalty conversion with the visitors firmly in the lead, 0-16. CPUT came out firing on all cylinders in the second half, Timothy Shortles scored the home side's first and what proved to be only try of the encounter. Myburgh added to kicking success by scoring his side's second try taking his tally to 16 points and extended the Madibaz lead. Despite concerted efforts, the two-time Varsity Shield champions could not penetrate the Madibaz's defensive resolve as they picked up an important away 7-21 victory against the formidable CPUT. SCORERS: FNB CPUT 7 (0) – Try: Timothy Shortles Conversion: Oyintando Maseti FNB Madibaz 21 (16) – Tries: Kyle Erasmus, Kehan Myburgh Conversion: Myburgh Penalties: Myburgh (3) FNB Player That Rocks: Kehan Myburgh (FNB Madibaz) TEAMS: FNB CPUT: Emihle Benya, Lihle Kula, Kieran Naidoo, Lwando Woji, Keanan Rolosi, Duke Somila Shasha, Lungelo Kubheka, Ayabulela Zono, Jayson January, Oyintando Maseti, Keenan Williams, Timothy Shortles, Iwaan Bloys, Linton Maritz, Keewan Titus, Kéran Valentyn, Nkosephayo Ngema, Milokuhle Ntusikazi, Ntsako Mhlanga, Lathitha Ratsibe, Armondo Hoogbaard, Wiehan Kruger, Danielle Padiachy FNB Madibaz: Endinako Kuse, Kyle Erasmus, S'bulelo Roji, Dewald Gerber, Christopher Kachungunu, Mzwakhe Hlupheko, Alwaba Bobelo, Leon van der Merwe, Mpumelelo Mavuso, Raashied Conrad, Buhlebemvelo Fipaza, Troy Delport, Lwando Davane, Kehan Myburgh, Henry Kruger, Tlhalefo Moleko, Imibongo Mvuleni, Andries Flemming, De Wet Goedhals, Mekyle Solomon, Marthinus Strydom, Bryce Collins, Janco van der Walt. FNB Varsity College 27 – 0 FNB TUT FNB Varsity college announced their arrival into the FNB Varsity Shield with a strong performance on their first game ever in the competition. The first 10 minutes of the game began tight with both sides have got nothing to show an physicality being the order of the game. FNB Varsity College drew first blood 14 minutes into the game after a strong maul in the far corner was finished off by Jacques Marais. The home side continued their dominance as Marais completed his brace right before the first strategy break to make it 10-0. Fly-half Frederick Marx failing to convert both tries. The Comets extended their lead following a sweet chip from flyhalf Marx for centre MacMillan Mudara to dot down in the corner. It was rinse and repeat when Marx chipped again and once more Mudara was on the receiving end. Marx redeemed himself and successfully converted both kicks taking the home side 24-0 into the break. 10 minutes into the second half it was Frederick Marx once again on the scoreboard as he slotted a beautiful drop goal from around the middle of the park stretching the home teams lead to 27 to nothing from the away side. SCORERS: FNB Varsity College 27  (24) - Tries:   Jacques du-toit Marais (2), MacMillan Mudara (2) FNB TUT  0 (0) - Tries: None FNB Player That Rocks: Frederick Marx (FNB Varsity College) TEAMS: FNB Varsity College: Daniel Van Huizen, Jacques Marais, Sonwabo Maseko, Garren Müller, Werner Coetzee, Juan Steyl, Enzo Van Niekerk, Mandisi Nkutha, Abande Mthembu, Frederick Marx, Tshegofatso Ramaloko, Michael Ngwenya, Macmillian Mudara, Philani Khoza, Mbasa Nkonki. FNB TUT: Lawrence Nong, Jandre van Zyl, Mxolisi Nzama, Lwazi Dlamini, Clinton Ngomane, Knowledge Chaira, Lutho Tom, Athenkosi Jack, Olwethu Prence, Jamie Felix, Josh Robinson, Mauritz Maritz, Sipho Malaza, Vuyani Vanqa, Ayabonga Zakwe, Lungelo Mvelase, Phathutshedzo Sidimela, Makhosana Mashele, Thato Mopedi, Kgomotso Maribana, Buhlebuyeza Ndunakazi, Mihlali Bam, Shandon Botha