If history is anything to go by then FNB CPUT duo Kieran Naidoo and Wiehan Kruger could have their names added to the countless players who have gone onto higher honours. They come from good stock. Naidoo and Kruger have been standout performers for the two-time FNB Varsity Shield champions in the opening rounds. It is indeed a testament to a great foundation that has helped them hone their natural skills and talent. Both are former Western Province Rugby Academy (UXi) players. Three formidable former UXi Academy players include Springbok Kurt-Lee Arendse, livewire Sharks scrumhalf Grant Williams and the recently capped Blitzbok inspiration, Ricardo 'Tricky Ricky' Duarttee. Arendse was part of the UXi Academy in 2016 before joining FNB UWC. The speedster helped UWC gain a historic promotion to the FNB Varsity Cup in 2019. He would only play one match - against FNB Ikeys - before being selected for the Blitzboks team. Arendse made his debut for the Springboks in 2022. Williams, who has earned one test cap for South Africa, and Duarttee graduated from the UXi Academy in 2015 and 2021 respectively. Kruger picked up the FNB Player That Rocks award in the first match against FNB UKZN, contributing 15 points with his kicking boot. He has since picked up an injury but coach Alistair Theys is confident the inside centre will make a speedy recovery. Naidoo has been nothing short of impactful when introduced off the bench. The front rower was instrumental for CPUT in their 36-21 victory over FNB UFH. His work rate off the ball has been a troubling sight for the opposition. by Lyndon Julius

FNB CPUT 35 FNB MADIBAZ 32 The match between FNB Madibaz and FNB CPUT at the Madibaz Stadion will go down as one of the most classic encounters in the history of the Varsity Shield. In the end, it was the visitors who turned a 19-point deficit at halftime into a 35-32 victory over the home team. When Madibaz got off to a near-perfect start against CPUT thanks to three unanswered tries in the first 20 minutes, it looked as though it might be a long afternoon for their visitors from the Cape. Umna Tokwe, Leon van der Merwe and Endinako Kuse all crossed the whitewash to the delight of the home fans. But CPUT, neck and neck on the log with Madibaz before this game, showed why they are an outfit to be reckoned with in the competition and through a slick backline move put Caine Stadler in for their first try. It proved to be just what CPUT needed as they were a changed unit in the second half. Front-rower Soyama Ngceke was particularly strong and got just a reward with his two tries. Madibaz refused to take it lying down though and brought the match back on a knife edge thanks to a try by replacement Kyle Erasmus. Towards the end, it was anyone’s game for the taking, but Keenan Williams’ late try for CPUT put the result beyond doubt in an absolute humdinger. FNB Madibaz: 32 (26) – Tries: Umna Tokwe, Leon van der Merwe, Endinako Kuse, Kehan Myburg, Kyle Erasmus. Conversions: Chadwyn November (2). Penalties: Chadwyn November (1) FNB CPUT: 35 (7) – Tries: Caine Stadler, Soyama Ngceke (2), Roland van der Heever, Keenan Williams. Conversions: Oyintando Maseti (4), Ryan George (1). FNB Player That Rocks: Kehan Myburg. FNB Madibaz: 15 Myburg Kehan, 14 Bophi Khakalethu Alivadon, 13 Franks Enrique Linley, 12 Delport Troy, 11 Maku Liyabona, 10 November Chadwyn Ronaldo, 9 Mavuso Mpumelelo Solani, 8 Van der Merwe Leon, 7 Solomon Mekyle, 6 Hlupheko Mzwakhe Kevin, 5 Kachungunu Christopher Cikuru, 4 Tokwe Umna, 3 Kuse Endinako, 2 Dladla Yolisa, 1 Nortje Marco. FNB CPUT: 15 Stadler Caine Martin, 14 Hartogh Heinrico Keastin, 13 Tole Sicelo, 12 Maseti Oyintando, 11 Williams Keenan, 10 Alexander Darren, 9 George Ryan Me-Kyle George, 8 van der Heever Roland Leonard, 7 Solomons Keanan Matteo, 6 Zono Ayabulela, 5 Woji Lwando, 4 Salman Anenceba, 3 Mafenyana Masivuye, 2 Shasha Duke (Shakes), 1 Ngceke Soyama. FNB UWC 47 FNB WSU 12 Three tries in the opening 20 minutes ensured a solid 47-12 for FNB UWC over FNB WSU at UWC Sports Stadium. The men from Bellville raced to a substantial 28-0 lead at halftime courtesy of four tries by Will Vraagom, Riaan van der Merwe, Zhaun-Jacques Brynard, and Elkan Willemse. Conwill Conradie was successful with all the conversions. UWC was running rampant with players like Conradie, Willemse, and flank forward Romuald Nsombamanya gaining quality ball for the home side. The team from East London had very little possession in the opening 40 minutes. It was much of the same in the first quarter of the second half, with UWC exploiting the gaps in the WSU defensive lines. Simthembile Zozi and Lisolethu Valisi got the only points for WSU minutes before the second strategy break. Valisi succeeded with one of his conversions. With the victory, UWC has consolidated their position at the top of the log while WSU remains winless after four games. FNB UWC 47 (28) – Tries: Will Vraagom, Riaan van der Merwe, Zhaun-Jacques Brynard, Elkan Willemse, Mauritz Swart, Bilaal Moerat, Matthew Stephens Conversions: Conwill Conradie (6). FNB WSU 12 (0) – Tries: Simthembile Zozi, Lisolethu Valisi. Conversion: Valisi. FNB Player That Rocks: Liam Tattersal (UWC) FNB UWC: 15 Mynhardt Tasriq, 14 Vraagom Will, 13 Brynard Zhaun-Jacques, 12 Breda Bryan John, 11 Ncana Hlomla, 10 Willemse Elkan, 9 Conradie Conwill Brooklyn (Bolla), 8 Magerman Zinzan, 7 Moerat Bilaal, 6 Kuilders Almore, 5 van der Merwe Carel, 4 Tattersal Liam, 3 van der Merwe Riaan Jacubus, 2 Swart Mauritz, 1 Lamprecht Christian Johan. FNB WSU: 15 Tshayi Lukhangele, 14 Nondlwana Bulelani Amyoli, 13 Sondishe Awonke, 12 Jali Lisolethu, 11 Zozi Simthembile, 10 Klaasen Maxwell, 9 Ngcetane Lithemba, 8 Mkwayimba Sandisiwe, 7 Mandes Pernell Mervian, 6 Solani Khanya, 5 Tetani Kamva, 4 Mampunye Lutho, 3 Adonisi Sithembiso, 2 Zixesha Mangaliso, 1 Spelt Ayabonga Masivuye. FNB UFH 45 FNB RHODES 0 FNB UFH got the defence of their Varsity Shield title back on track with an emphatic 45-0 victory over FNB Rhodes at the Davidson Stadium. The result will no doubt boost the confidence of the Blues to make the playoffs and contest for a second successive crown. Even though they dominated most facets of the play, it was slow going in the first half for the home team. A penalty from Merlin du Plessis opened the scoring before a try by Kamvelihle Gcweka, converted by Du Plessis, took the score to 10-0 at halftime. UFH threw down the gauntlet in the second half with Rhodes playing catchup. Jodwana Lathi-Tha Jodwana’s yellow card didn’t help and the Blues took full advantage. It started raining tries for the defending champions with Ayabulela Xhosana, Du Plessis, Salisiwe Gxekwa (2) and Khonaye Mbakaza crossing the line. Du Plessis was successful with all the conversions and was deservedly named the Player That Rocks. FNB UFH 45 (10) – Tries: Kamvelihle Gcweka, Ayabulela Xhosana, Salisiwe Gxekwa (2), Khonaye Mbakaza, Merlin du Plessis. Conversations: Du Plessis (6). Penalties: Du Plessis (3) FNB Rhodes 0 (0). FNB Player That Rocks: Merlin du Plessis (UFH) FNB UFH: 15 Sidloyi Apiwe, 14 Bathu Mziyabulela, 13 Maree Ryan Kelly, 12 Baleni Yonela Sibusiso, 11 Mdladlana Lilitha M. Lunika, 10 Wannies Ru-Ché, 9 du Plessis Merlin 8 Xhosana Ayabulela, 7 Gcweka Kamvelihle, 6 Tosholwana Lukhanyiso (Jiji), 5 Nqotyana Cinga, 4 Moyo Walter Benjamim, 3 Mbasa Babele, 2 Fatyela Kamvelihle, 1 Nzima Mesuli S. Samkele. FNB Rhodes: 15 Momberg Callum, 14 Kandengwa Tatenda, 13 Sonanze Ethan, 12 Maisela Samkelo, 11 Ngantweni Simamekele, 10 Mabodla Siyolise, 9 Goliath Ethan, 8 Jodwana Lathi-Tha, 7 Makalima Sonqoba Magaliso, 6 Hermanus Jadé, 5 Jako Qhama, 4 Dambuza David Junior Sibuvile, 3 Ralo Sinolwazingekamvalakhe, 2 Isaacs Loyiso, 1 Nene Kwanele. FNB TUT 50 FNB UKZN 10 After last week’s drubbing by FNB UWC at home in Pretoria, FNB TUT scored an impressive 50-10 away win over FNB UKZN in Durban. The visitors didn’t waste any time to get on the scoreboard as fullback Jamie Felix finished off a beautiful move for the first of his two tries. The home team responded immediately through Juan-Daniels McArthur with Jarred Nicholls converting. Nichols also added a penalty. Tries by Olwethu Pence and Jandre Van Zyl, and Felix’s second, stretched TUT’s lead at halftime to 26-10. Having identified UKZN’s weakness in physicality and line-out distributions, TUT were on fire in the second 40 minutes with Van Zyl dotting down two more times and Joseph Kaunda and Sandile Robinson also getting their names on the scoresheet. An inconsistent conversion rate didn’t matter much for the visitors as they completed a successful demolition of UKZN. FNB UKZN 10 (10) – Tries: Juan-Daniels McArthur. Conversion: Jarred Nicholls. Penalty: Nicholls. FNB TUT 50 (26) – Tries: Jamie Felix (2), Olwethu Prence, Jandre Van Zyl (3), Joseph Kaunda, Sandile Robinson. Conversion: Dieter Groenewald (5). FNB Player That Rocks: Dieter Groenewalt (TUT) FNB UKZN: 15 Ngcamu Minenhle Mfanelo, 14 Zulu Zamakuhle, 13 Coetzee Trent, 12 Mkhize Singile, 11 Adendorf Devandre Sivuyiseni, 10 Nicholls Jarryd, 9 Cele Thando Sphesihle, 8 Mazhindu Tinotenda, 7 Watkins Damien, 6 Bishop Merlyn Joshua Bishop, 5 Goliath Bevan, 4 Mathonsi Ntlankanipho, 3 Walker Uli, 2 Ndimande Siphosethu Siyanda, 1 Maseko Benjamin. FNB TUT: 15 Felix Jamie, 14 Mene Lutho, 13 Langa Malcolm, 12 Groenewald Dieter, 11 Robinson Joshua Sandile Robinson, 10 Koza Ayabulela, 9 Prence Olwethu Munga Prence, 8 Skosana Rowane Ntokozo, 7 Franse Danel, 6 Mapungwana Kokutenda, 5 Turner Raniel Andrew, 4 Kibongo Guy-Flaury, 3 Mokone Goabaona, 2 van Zyl Jandre, 1 Nong Lawrence.

FNB Wits narrowly lost to the FNB Shimlas(25-26) on Monday evening in Bloemfontein during the third round of the 2023 FNB Varsity Cup. It was the first loss of this year’s competition for the Witsies, with the loss keeping them in the second spot on the log standings. The Johannesburg team have been without one of their seasoned forwards, Jason Cloete. The prop suffered an ACL injury in a warm-up game that has seen him sidelined for several weeks. He has been part of the Wits rugby set-up since leaving King Edward VII School in 2018, playing for the Young Guns before getting the call-up to the Varsity Cup squad in 2020, where he has made himself a regular member of the team. Varsity Cup caught up with Cloete to get a feel of what goes on behind the scenes when a player is injured during a Varsity Cup season. What motivated you to start playing rugby? I think I just always wanted to play, my school didn’t have rugby until grade 4 so it was just a long time coming and when I got to play it, I loved it. What’s it been like being side-lined because of the injury? Being side-lined isn’t the nicest thing in the world. I think the worst part is probably just not being able to do much in terms of helping the team on the field, but they have put on a show so far. I’ve still been attending the training like usual, I just get my program. On match day I just help wherever I can. We’ve only had one game at home so far, so not too much of that just yet. How have you managed to keep mentally strong through your injury? I understand it’s part of the game and these things happen. Not that it’s easy, I just know it’s kind of what I signed up for, so I do my time in rehab and recover properly, then look to get back on the pitch stronger. What advice would you give to young players looking to play Varsity Cup? Firstly, study hard gentlemen, because you can’t play if you don’t pass your modules. Then I’d have to say work hard on and off the pitch to be as fit as you can be. It’s a fast game and even these big lads you see out there are, moving kind of fast nowadays. by S’fisoNyawo

The FNB Varsity Cup has long provided a platform for aspiring Springboks to enjoy their craft on the rugby field while at the same time being in the fortunate position of getting an education at one of the many fine institutions that play in the prestigious competition. FNB UFS Shimlas’ Tyreec Liedeman is no exception, with being a Blitzbok and a Springbok firmly in his sights. Rugby runs deep in the Liedeman family with his grandfather being the former Protea and Boland player, Japie Liedeman. Last year, the loose-forward was still playing club rugby for Wesbank RFC in Malmesbury in the Western Cape. He made such an impression during the Boland Top 12 competition, that he was named the forward player of the tournament. He was spotted by the Shimlas and the rest, as they say, is history. Liedeman says his journey to playing in the Varsity Cup started at 3rd team level for Wesbank RFC and he is now living the dream. “I started in the 3rd team and played a few games there and was moved up to the 2nd team where I played three games. I was noticed by the forward coach of the 1st team, Emgee Fredericks. I was also part of the Top 12 team of Wesbank that made it to the semi-finals. Despite not making it, I was voted as the forward of the tournament in the Top 12. “I am very grateful for all the opportunities that have come my way and attribute my success to our Heavenly Father, all the praise and honour goes to God. I never thought that I would find myself in the Varsity Cup competition, and that has always been one of my dreams. I am also very grateful to Shimlas who allowed me to play rugby at a higher level and to get to study. “I would like to work hard, give my best for the Shimlas and also complete my studies. My dreams are big, but I know that it takes hard work and am willing to put in all of that work.”

After three successive losses, defending champions FNB UP-Tuks are in desperate need of a miracle in the 2023 FNB Varsity Cup. Tonight’s fourth-round clash against log leaders FNB NWU Eagles at home in Pretoria is therefore of critical importance. Centre Pierre Fourie says he still believes they can turn it around. “We have our backs against the wall at this stage but there are a lot of good things we did, however, small errors cost us the games. I think our work rate needs to pick up a bit and the belief in the team as well.” The former Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool alumni did not have much game time last season, but he recalls one of his best moments was when he was called in at the last minute to play in the final against Maties. “One of the highlights in my rugby career was when I donned the Affies jersey at Loftus Versfeld in my matric year. But the biggest would be winning the 2022 Varsity Cup, it was the best feeling ever. I wasn’t in the starting line-up until Sunday afternoon when one of our players got injured and they brought me in. Now I am seeking to win it again.” Fourie believes his team can still turn things around for back-to-back titles in what is his last year of Varsity Cup. He says pursuing rugby on a professional level is his main aim. “It is my final year, I want to make a statement, I want to win it again. “I am happy with my performance. We strive to be better every day, we have come a long way and worked hard for this. It is a privilege to wear the Tuks jersey, looking at everyone that came through the Tuks ranks.” by LehlogonoloDitshego

FNB UCT centre Lyle Hendricks says coming from a big sporting family, he always knew he wanted to play rugby. Not that it was necessarily an easy decision, as cricket was also in the mix for the 24-year-old new Ikey Tigers recruit. The former Paul Roos Gymnasium learner has joined UCT for the current FNB Varsity Cup season after spending a few seasons at FNB UWC. "The culture and environment created by the players and coaches here make it easy for someone coming in to fit easily into the system without any problems," says Hendricks. Looking back on growing up, Hendricks says his family was all he could ask for in terms of support as he managed to make the right decisions. "Funny enough I had to choose between rugby and cricket in school. I attended Paul Roos Gymnasium and coming from a particularly strong sporting family, I decided to go with rugby. "My brother Liam also is a rugby player who represented Western Province and is currently playing in France. "My brother and dad have had a big impact on the player I am today. They are my biggest supporters and my biggest critics, and I appreciate the guidance and support they give me daily." Hendricks says he has been a huge supporter of his brother's career but the player he looks up to the most is the former All Blacks great Sonny Bill Williams. "As a player, I see myself in a professional set-up again where I have played for the Western Province and the Stormers. I would like to get there again and be at a union in South Africa or overseas. "The player I always looked up to is Sonny Bill Williams, because he plays a similar game to me, entertaining, creative, physical and skilful." by Ayanda Frances Felem

FNB MATIES 56 FNB WITS 54 It went down to the wire, but in the end, FNB Maties secured an import 56-54 victory over FNB Wits in Johannesburg with flyhalf Jurie Matthee kicking the match-winning penalty in the final seconds. The game was played in front of a small crowd as supporters were restricted from coming to the stadium due to ongoing protests on the Wits University campus. The first half saw Wits registering the first score through flanker Mark Snyman before Maties took a 10-7 lead courtesy of a penalty and a try from Matthew van Schalkwyk. Then the visitors ran Wits ragged to race to a 40-19 lead at the break. In the second half, it looked as if the Witsies would launch a comeback and find their way back into the game. But a lack of discipline let them down with unnecessary penalties during crucial parts of the game. Matthee was in fine form at flyhalf for Maties, making sure his team remained in the fight, in moments when it looked like Wits would claim a famous victory. Wits scored four tries in the second half, while the visitors only managed one. A last-gasp penalty was unfortunately the undoing of the Witsies' hard work. FNB Wits 54 (19) – Tries: Mark Snyman, Azi Afrika (2), Lindo Mcusane, Wernich Aucamp (2). Conversions: Gerswin Mouton (1). Penalties: Mouton (1). FNB Maties 56 (40) – Tries: Matthew van Schalkwyk, Grant de Jager, Waqar Solaan, Siyabonga Ngubelanga (2), Maselino Pooe. Conversions: Jurie Matthee. Penalties: Matthee (4). FNB Player That Rocks: Grant de Jager (Maties) FNB Wits: 15 Lwandile Mapuko, 14 Willem Johannes de Lange, 13 Luhle Matyolweni, 12 Setshaba Mokoena, 11 Gershwin Mouton, 10 Mokhethi Kabelo, 9 Aucamp Wernich 8 Ziyanda Msipha, 7 Lindokuhle Ncusane, 6 Mark Snyman, 5 Cal Smid, 4 Gouws Hendrik Theunis, 3 John-Kelly Okonkwo, 2 Mulea Prince Rotondwa, 1 Banele Mthenjane. FNB Maties: 15 Rousseau Jacques Guillaume, 14 Van Schalkwyk Matthew Emile, 13 De Jager Grant, 12 Solaan Waqar Bradwell, 11 Pooe Maselino Alberto Neo, 10 Matthee Jurie Johannes, 9 Volmoer Mckyle, 8 Marais De Wet, 7 Miller Simon, 6 Matanda Siyabonga, 5 Beukes Juan, 4 Van Rhyn Marco, 3 Burton Moegammad Anmaar, 2 Ngubelanga Siyabonga, 1 Marais Gert Erasmus. FNB NWU EAGLES 26 FNB UP-TUKS 22 The nightmare is continuing for FNB UP-Tuks as they suffered their fourth consecutive defeat this season, with log leaders FNB NWU Eagles beating the defending champions 26-22 in Pretoria. The halftime score was 21-15. The home side started on a high note when hooker Allitser Williams dotted down from a driving maul inside the first 10 minutes. After missing a conversion Walter Visser redeemed himself when he scored a penalty to make it 8-0 after 13 minutes of action. Tries by Tino Swanepoel and Keano Windvogel put the Eagles on the board as they edged past Tuks to lead 14-8. The visitors continued their rampage when Theuns Pretorius barged through the Tuks' defence for his try. The home team got one back when captain Lincoln Daniels crossed over for the hosts’ second try of the evening. The Eagles’ Swanepoel completed his double two minutes into the second half. Ethan Burger reduced the deficit when he tapped the ball and crossed over the NWU try line. Tuks looked rejuvenated in the last 20 minutes of the match as they were desperately seeking a much-needed win to remain in contention, however, their questions remained unanswered. FNB UP-Tuks: 22 (15) – Tries: Allister Williams, Lincoln Daniels, Ethan Burger. Conversions: Walter Visser (1). Penalties: Visser (1) FNB NWU Eagles: 26 (21) – Tries: Tino Swanepoel (2), Keano Windvogel, Theuns Pretorius. Conversions: Zinedine Robinson (2). Player That Rocks: Tino Swanepoel (NWU) FNB UP-Tuks: 15 Lewis Clyde Alfurdo, 14ZenzileAmbesa, 13Daniels Lincoln Liam, 12Fourie Pierre Arno, 11NgubaneBayandaSinele, 10Visser Walter, 9Cloete Rowan, 8Venter Divan, 7Gie Hilton, 6 SChoonees Dian Antonie, 5Meiring Dawid H. Lukas (Louis), 4 Kabasele Justice, 3 Geldenhuys Werner, 2 Williams Allister Noel, 1 Van der Merwe. FNB NWU Eagles: 15 Swanepoel Tino Santino , 14 Windvogel Keano Ricardo, 13 Pretorius Theunis Gerhardus, 12 Phatudi Isrome, 11 Jaarts Naiden, 10 Robinson Zinedine, 9 Hassien Sylvester, 8 Erlank Gustav Zacharias, 7 Bertram Karl-Heinz Henlein, 6 Posthumus Arminn, 5 Nel Wihan, 4 White Junior, 3 Shezi Ntobeko Thabiso, 2 Paulo Vernon, 1 du Plessis Ruben. FNB CUT 54 FNB UJ 12 After a competitive first half, FNB CUT kicked into higher gear for a comprehensive 54-12 victory over FNB UJ in Johannesburg. It was the Orange Army who scored the first try of the game through Peter Polhmann, who was set up brilliantly by his teammates. Jonathan Viljoen made no mistake with the conversion, giving UJ an early 7-0 lead. CUT however fought back strongly and managed to score three tries before the end of the first half. Zachary Bester was the star of the show for the visitors, scoring two brilliant tries from long range. Ricoman Titus also got on the scoresheet with a team effort, giving the visitors a 30-12 lead at halftime. The second half started similarly, with CUT extending their lead through a penalty. And then the tries started raining, first Matthew Sekele, followed by Jacobus Cloete and Titus who dotted down for his hat trick. It was a disappointing result for UJ, who will need to regroup and work on their defence ahead of their next game. For CUT, it was an excellent performance and a valuable win on the road. FNB UJ: 12 (12) – Tries: Peter Polhmann, Prince Nkabinde. Conversions: Jonathan Viljoen (1). FNB CUT: 54 (30) – Tries: Zachary Bester (2), Ricoman Titus (3), Jacobus Cloete, Matthew Sekele. Conversions: Tyler Sefoor (6). Penalties: Sefoor (1). FNB Player That Rocks: Jacobus Johannes Cloete (CUT) FNB UJ: 15 Malgas Rowan Hafeni, 14 Nkabinde Prince, 13 Radebe Nkondlokamthimkhulu, 12 TyedaIndiphile, 11 Tengimgene Likhaya, 10 Viljoen Jonathan Joshua, 9 Kubheka Mpho Vincent, 8 Qaba Buhlebenkosi, 7Pretorius Francois Christiaan, 6 Kanenungo Kelvin, 5 Apea-Adu Philip, 4 Bali Sinovuyo Sibabalwe, 3 Pohlmann Heiko Peter Eugene, 2 Osuagwu Darnell Jerry-Fred, 1 Kiewit Kayden Nicklo. FNB CUT: 15 Titus Ricoman, 14 Gouveia Adielson Gouveia, 13 Botha Lesley, 12 de Beer Jandré, 11 Malumane TsepoSiphosethu, 10 Sefoor Tyler, 9 Swartbooi Xavier Alister, 8 Bester Francois Johannes, 7 Stander Ulrich Stephan, 6 Cloete Jacobus Johannes, 5 Sekele Matthew M. Maboe, 4 Marubelela Asekho Phindile, 3 Augustyn Zéan, 2 Drotske Tiaan, 1 Venter Albertus Bernard Human. FNB UCT 29 FNB 12 UFS SHIMLAS FNB UCT restored their dignity with a 29-12 win over FNB UFS Shimlas in Cape Town. Having lost their away match last week against FNB UJ, the Ikey Tigers were hoping to fix what went wrong. The home side broke the deadlock in the early stages of the game through winger Rethabile Louw with Ntokozo Makhaza adding the extras making it 7-0 after seven minutes. It wasn’t long before Tom Dawson-Squibb’s side scored their second try through prop Brian le Roux. Kyle Lamb went over for UCT’s third just before halftime, taking the score to 24-0. As expected because of the heavy wind at the Green Mile Stadium, the visitors showed up at the start of the second half putting more pressure on the Ikey Tigers. Shimlas used UCT scrumhalf Asad Moos’ yellow card to their advantage when8th man Kwezi Dlamini dotted down. Frank de Reis added another, but it was a case of too little too late for the visitors. FNB UCT 29 (24) – Tries: Rethabile Louw, Brian le Roux, Kyle Lamb, Lezane Davis. Conversations: Ntokozo Makhaza (3). Penalties: Makhaza (1). FNB UFS Shimlas12 (0) – Tries: Kwezi Dlamini, Frank de Reis. Conversations: Ethan Wentzel (1). Player That Rocks: Kyle Lamb (UCT) FNB UCT Ikeys: 15 Makhaza Ntokozo Sibusiso, 14 Louw Rethabile Donovan, 13 Boulle Joshua Michael, 12 Lamb Kyle Graeme, 11 Davis Lezane, 10 Hendricks Lyle Victor, 9 Moos Asad, 8 MacLeod Smith Jason, 7 Ndiao Kyle Enos, 6 Dyonase Siphumezo, 5 van Rhyn Johan, 4 Crous Reynhardt Wouter, 3 Le Roux Bryan Justin, 2 Castle Alex A., 1 Woji Luthando Solomon. FNB UFS Shimlas: 15 Michael Annies, 14 Javier Farmer, 13 Nkoka Ngobe, 12 William Moffat, 11SiviweZondani, 10 Ethan Wentzel, 9 Hlumelo Klaas, 8 Kwezi Dlamini, 7 Lohan Potgieter, 6 Lourens Oosthuizen (captain), 5 Dylan Sjöblom, 4 Pierre-Raymond Uys, 3 Gerrit Viser, 2 Liyema Mgwigwi, 1 Johan Schutte.

FNB UKZN might not have found their best of forms in results, but they have found a reliable kicker in fly-half Jarryd Nicholls. The men from KwaZulu-Natal have a single victory from four games with a porous defence leaking tries. On the other hand, Nicholls has only missed two of his 12 kicks so far which relates to an 88.6% conversation rate. The Durban-born player has also scored two tries, taking his points tally to 32. Describing how he prepares himself for taking his kicks, Nicholls explains that he puts much of his efforts into training which directly translates to match-day success. “It’s something I put a lot of extra time into on the field just kicking by myself before and after training and it’s a part of my game that I continue to work on. “I taught myself through it all, with the help of my coaches of course, and I just find what feels good for me when I kick, play around with the ball positioning and just experiment.” Despite all of this pressure, Nicholls still finds a way to keep his cool and execute the task routine-style. “Before I take any kick both during the game or in training, I first make sure that the ball is aiming in the right direction and where I want it to go. After this, all I think about is sticking to my routine and not deviating from it which gets me to ignore the pressure.” As UKZN continue to fight for a semi-final spot, the men from the coast will need players like Nicholls to keep their standard of play, or even better, improve on it. by MpenduloLetsoalo

"If" is a word that will haunt FNB UP-Tuks for some time as their chance of retaining the Varsity Cup title ended on Monday with a 22-26 loss against FNB NWU Eagles in Pretoria. It was their fourth successive loss. The last time this happened in the Varsity Cup was in 2018 and they eventually went on to lose five games in a row. The cruel reality is that it could happen again on Monday as the defending champions travel to Stellenbosch to take on arch-nemesis FNB Maties, currently third on the log. Maties are also not on top of their game this season. The big difference is that they still do win games. More importantly, they don't give up. They proved this by beating FNB UCT Ikeys 21-19, NWU 31-28 and FNB Wits 56-54. They had to come from behind to win in all three games. In contrast, Tuks lost 25-25 against FNB UFS Shimlas, 39-41 against FNB CUT, and 22-26 against NWU. Their biggest defeat was 19-42 against Ikeys. For Tuks to avoid a fifth defeat, they must come up with something extraordinary on Monday against Maties. The word "if" is probably haunting the Tuks players and coaches at the moment. Because "if" the players kept control of the ball. "If" vital tackles were not missed. "If" Tuks didn’t need to play catchup in each game, some results could have been different. Captain Lincoln Daniels’ comments after the defeat against the Eagles probably summed it up the best. "There are no words to describe how we feel as a team. Our efforts are not reflected on the scoreboard. If I am honest, we, as players, are to blame.” Things are not going to get any easier for Tuks. After Maties, they got to play Wits away. The Wits team is currently fourth on the log. So they have a lot to play for. Tuks's last game is at home against UJ. It is a game Tuks ought to win on paper, as UJ is also battling in this year’s Varsity Cup campaign with only one victory. There is a lot at stake. The team ending bottom of the Varsity Cup log will automatically be relegated to the Varsity Shield, while the team finishing top of the Varsity Shield log will automatically be promoted to the Varsity Cup.

With a passion for rugby always part of his make-up, FNB Madibaz’ Kehan Myburgh used the disruptive nature of the Covid-19 pandemic as a catalyst to take his game to another level. The 20-year-old fullback from Gqeberha underlined his potential last week when he was named the Player That Rocks in an FNB Varsity Shield match against FNB CPUT, despite his side going down 32-35. Although he had been introduced to a range of sports as a youngster, he recalls how he fell in love with the game when the only toy he wanted to play with was his rugby ball. He started taking his rugby seriously in Grade 11 and, even though Covid-19 disrupted the season in his matric year in 2020, he was determined to stay focused and make a go of it after school. “By taking rugby away, Covid-19 motivated me to work harder,” says the third-year B.Com student, who acknowledges that there have been some important lessons on his journey. “I have learnt that there are going to be tough times. Whether it is an injury, not making the team or making mistakes on the field, it is going to happen. “What counts the most is how you react. Do you let it get the better of you or do you get up and try again?” As a financial planner in the making, Myburgh appreciates the importance of setting goals while understanding the path that would take him there. He ticked a box when he made his Varsity Shield debut this season after being promoted from the Madibaz Young Guns. Now he is eyeing the USSA 15s, USSA or Varsity Sports Sevens and Eastern Province U21 squads. “But I aim to be consistent with my performances and to enjoy every opportunity I get. This, I feel, will give me a good chance of reaching my goals for the year.” He knows he is far from the finished article but appreciates the strides his game has made during his time with the Madibaz. “The coaches have taught me so much on how to become a better fullback or flyhalf and just a better player in general. I have learnt so much about the game after school.”

FNB UWC 31 FNB CPUT 10 FNB UWC outplayed hosts FNB CPUT in Belville and won the Cape derby 31-10. The home side managed a single penalty in the first half with UWC running in three tries to head into the break with a comfortable 17-3 lead. The win means UWC consolidated their number one spot atop the Varsity Shield log after both sides went into the round 5 fixture unbeaten. No points were scored in the first 20 minutes. A single penalty via the boot of Oyintando Maseti was the only first-half points for Alastair Theys' men while UWC ran in three tries. For UWC, the tries come quickly and fast after the strategic break. Hlomla Ncana, Franco Ceasar, and Bilaal Moerat all scored. At the start of the second half, the 2018 Varsity Shield champions picked up where they left when Almore Kuilders went over for the bonus point try. For the next 15 minutes, it was all CPUT as the 2022 finalists stretched the UWC defensive lines, but it held. A series of clinical errors by the home side however prevented them from converting any of the pressure into points. Despite a late surge and a consolation try by Dwayne Atkins, UWC retain their unbeaten record and secured a convincing victory. FNB CPUT 10 (3) – Try: Dwayne Atkins. Conversion: Oyintando Maseti Penalty: Maseti FNB UWC 31 (17) – Tries: Hlomla Ncana, Franco Ceasar, Bilaal Moerat, Almore Kuilders, Louan De Lange. Conversions: Conwill Conradie (3) FNB Player That Rocks: Conwill Conradie (UWC) FNB CPUT: 15 Stadler Caine Martin, 14 Atkins Dwayne, 13 Tole Sicelo, 12 Maseti Oyintando Honour, 11 Williams Keenan, 10 Alexander Darren Ewaan, 9 Engelbrecht Hugan, 8 van der Heever Roland Leonard, 7 Zono Ayabulela, 6 Solomons Keanan Matteo, 5 Woji Lwando, 4 Salman Anenceba, 3 Mafenyana Masivuye, 2 Shasha Duke (Shakes), 1 Ngceke Soyama Sinesethu. FNB UWC: 15 Diston Ethan, 14 Vraagom Will, 13 Brynard Zhaun-Jacques, 12 Breda Bryan John, 11 Ncana Hlomla, 10 Willemse Elkan, 9 Conradie Conwill Brooklyn (Bolla), 8 Magerman Zinzan, 7 Moerat Bilaal, 6 Kuilders Almore Jnr, 5 van der Merwe Carel, 4 Tattersal Liam, 3 Ceasar Franco Lee, 2 Swart Mauritz, 1 Lamprecht Christian Johan. FNB UFH 31 FNB UKZN 3 Defending champions FNB UFH cruised past a struggling FNB UKZN as they scored four tries for a 31-3 victory at the Howard College Stadium. UFH didn’t waste any time to get on the scoreboard as fly-half Merlin du Plessis landed a penalty. And then the Blue Army relentlessly tested the home side’s defence with wave-after-wave attacks. They finally broke through when Bantu Simane finished off a lovely team move right before the first-half strategy break. Then it was the turn of Ryan Maree to cross the try-line. Du Plessis converted both tries to give the visitors a 17-0 lead at halftime. There was consolation for UKZN when Jarryd Nicholls landed a penalty in the second half, but it was to be the only point for the home team. Ayabulela Xhosana was named the Player That Rocks, and Yonela Baleni added two more tries for UFH with Du Plessis successful with both conversions. FNB UKZN: 3 (0) – Penalty: Jarred Nicholls. FNB UFH 31 (17) – Tries: Bantu Simane, Ryan Maree, Ayabulela Xhosana, Yonela Baleni. Conversions: Merlin du Plessis (4). Penalty: Du Plessis. FNB Player That Rocks: Ayabulela Xhosana (UFH) FNB UKZN: 15 Nicholls Jarryd, 14 Zulu Zamakuhle, 13 Mkhize Singele, 12 Fick Russell Adrian, 11 Adendorf Devandre Sivuyiseni, 10 Kama Khanya Junior, 9 Smith Zak Richard, 8 Watkins Damien, 7 Fenske Wilhelm, 6 Bishop Merlyn Joshua Bishop, 5 Goliath Bevan, 4 Mathonsi Nhlakanipho, 3 Mc Arthur Jüan-Daniël, 2 Nxumalo Qhwawe, 1 Maseko Benjamin. FNB UFH: 15 Sidloyi Apiwe, 14 Mdladlana Lilitha, 13 Maree Ryan Kelly, 12 Baleni Yonela Sibusiso, 11 Bathu Mziyabulela, 10 Wannies Ru-Ché, 9 du Plessis Merlin Ruwaan, 8 Xhosana Ayabulela, 7 Gcweka Kamvelihle, 6 Tosholwana Lukhanyiso (Jiji), 5 Xhosana Ayabulela, 4 Moyo Walter Benjamim, 3 Simani Buntu Ntlakanipho, 2 Jamani Bunono, 1 Nzima Mesuli S. Samkele. FNB MADIBAZ 73 FNB RHODES 12 FNB Madibaz has taken a step closer to their goal of winning this year’s Varsity Shield after demolishing FNB Rhodes 73-12 in the Rhodes Great Field. Signs of the encounter heading for a one-sided affair were already evident at halftime with the score 26-0 in the visitors’ favour. Hooker Kyle Erasmus scored the first of Madibaz’s ten tries when he went over after a driving maul. Kehan Myburg then slotted his conversion over to put the men from Gqeberha 7-0 up inside 5 minutes. Avuyile Kwinana and Leon van der Merwe also scored before halftime with Myburgh converting one of the tries. Rhodes finally got on the board when Cameron Marais crossed the try line after a nine-phase move. Callum Momberg was successful with the conversion. As a consolation, Xhanti Stofile managed to sneak in another try for the home team late in the match. FNB Rhodes 12 (0) – Tries: Cameron Marais, Xhanti Stofile. Conversions: Callum Momberg (1) FNB Madibaz 73 (26) – Tries: Kyle Erasmus, Avuyile Kwinana (2), Leon van der Merwe, Divan Andre Fourie, Siphosethu Dlongodlongo (2), Chakalethu Bophi (2), Keaton Oliver. Conversions: Kehan Myburg (9). FNB Player That Rocks: Troy Delport (Madibaz) FNB Rhodes: 15 Momberg Callum, 14 Sonanze Ethan Junior, 13 Maisela Samkelo Wiseman Junior, 12 Ntshangase Lethu, 11 Ngwanteni Simamkele, 10 Mabodla Siyolise, 9 Mvelase Nkosinathi, 8 Jodwana Lathi-Tha, 7 Makalima Sonqoba Magaliso, 6 Erasmus James Alexander, 5 Jako Qhama, 4 Dambuza David Junior Sibuvile, 3 Mzamane Lwazi, 2 Tshongweni Lubabalo, 1 Nene Kwanele. FNB Madibaz: 15 Myburg Kehan, 14 Bophi Khakalethu Alivadon, 13 Pango Baphelele Ayabulela, 12 Delport Troy, 11 Fourie Divan Andre, 10 November Chadwyn Ronaldo, 9 Mavuso Mpumelelo Solani, 8 Kwinana Avuyile Avukile, 7 Kromhout Dillion, 6 Hlupekho Mzwakhe Kevin, 5 Kachungunu Christopher Cikuru, 4 Nogaya Thando Sihle, 3 Limba Aqhamile Khiphi, 2 Erasmus Kyle, 1 Limana Chulumanco. FNB WSU 21 FNB TUT 15 It was a last home game at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium and the first win of the season for FNB WSU as they claimed a 21–15 victory over FNB TUT. The rainy weather resulted in a stop and start affair. The visitors showed control and camped in the WSU half but missed chances that could have placed them front. On the other hand, commitment and teamwork paid off for TUT and they scored the opening try through Jandré Van Zyl. WSU replied when Mangaliso Zixesha crossed the try line and Maxwell Klaasen converted for a 7–5 lead. TUT then used their impressive maul and scored their second try to lead 10-7 at halftime. Lisolethu Valisi crossed the try line after 20 minutes of play in the second half and Klaasen was successful with the conversion to give WSU the lead once again. Van Zyl then scored his third try, giving the visitors hope for an important away victory. It wasn’t to be, however, as a converted try by Lithemba Ncithane sealed the victory for WSU. FNB WSU 21 (7) – Tries: Mangaliso Zixesha, Lisolethu Valisi, Lithemba Ncithane. Conversions: Maxwell Klaasen (3) FNB TUT 15 (10) – Tries: Jandré van Zyl (3). FNB Player That Rocks: Maxwell Klaasen (WSU) FNB WSU: 15 Tshayi Lukhangele, 14 Nondlwana Bulelani Amyoli, 13 Sondishe Awonke, 12 Jali Lisolethu, 11 Zozi Simthembile, 10 Klaasen Maxwell Curtley, 9 Mniki Esenam, 8 Tshatshu Ayabonga, 7 Mandes Pernell Mervian, 6 Solani Khanya, 5 Fana Uyathandwa, 4 Mampunye Lutho, 3 Matshoba Anda, 2 Zixesha Mangaliso, 1 Njadu Thembalihle. FNB TUT: 15 Felix Jamie, 14 Mene Lutho, 13 Maritz Mauritz, 12 Groenewald Dieter, 11 Robinson Joshua Sandile Robinson, 10 Koza Ayabulela, 9 Prence Olwethu Munga Prence, 8 France Danel Mark, 7 Chaira Knowledge, 6 Kibongo Guy-Flaury, Mark, 5 Turner Rianiel Andrew, 4 Mapungwana Nokutenda Albert, 3 Mokone Goabaona, 2 van Zyl Jandre, 1 Nong Lawrence.

After three victories and one defeat, FNB NWU Eagles hooker Vernon Paulo is full of praise for his team’s performance so far in the 2023 FNB Varsity Cup. At the same time, he is calling for consistency for the last four matches leading into the playoffs. The Eagles are at the top of the log, two points clear of FNB CUT. Their only defeat came against FNB Maties at home in Potchefstroom, 28-31 on 6 March. Paulo says the team has had a good start and they want to maintain their good form. “I think we’ve had a good campaign so far, there are a few points to work on and get better at. From here it’s very important to win every game and get points out of every game. It’s important to maintain the form we’re on and show consistency so we can achieve our team objectives. “It’s all about everyone doing their jobs. We have to train better, play better, and the coaches have to coach better and keep the environment healthy and starving for success.” Paulo has had a stellar start to the campaign and has picked up the FNB Player That Rocks award, something he is proud of. “It’s a good thing for me and that’s because of my teammates and coaches, they played a huge part in me achieving this. So for me, it’s about doing my job and giving my best every game.” Next up for the Eagles is FNB CUT at the Fanie du Toit Sports ground. Just two points separate the teams at the top of the log and Paulo says it will be one of NWU’s toughest matches. “CUT will be tough because they’ve been winning against good teams. They’re playing fast rugby, so we’re going to have to adapt to that and try to take it away from them.” by Lesiba Dikoba