The Impi Ladies produced a spirited comeback to defeat FNB UFH Women at Howard College Stadium, securing their second win of the season in Round 2 of the FNB Varsity Cup Women. Elsewhere, FNB UWC delivered a dominant second-half display to claim a convincing 26-7 victory over FNB UJ. Meanwhile, FNB UP-Tuks pulled off a major upset at Tuks Stadium, stunning the defending champions in an exciting five-try thriller.   Here is our selection for standout players from round 2.   Lidene Kruger (FNB UP-Tuks) UP-Tuks Women toppled defending champions FNB Maties Women top go top of the log. The Stripe Generation have their tails swinging as they recorded back-to-back victories. Lidene Kruger was the star of the show scoring two tries and a commanding defensive display. “Today’s performance made a big influence on the standard I set for myself, the mistakes I made were natural and I can always correct them the most important thing helping the team win." “Last week I broke line through lines many time and could not fend off opponents, so this week I had to fix that, first try I was so close, and I just fended her off. I think my speed and discipline helped me a lot today. I am very proud of the ladies; I think all other teams should pull up their socks because Tuks is here to make a big impression. Our coached do not only coach us to be the best but to be the best for each other.”   Marli George - (FNB UWC) She stood out thorough out the game, dictating the tempo of the game with composed decision making and effective game management, helping FNB UWC to maintain territorial control and build attacking momentum.   Hlekane Baloyi - (FNB UKZN)   She is a warrior at Number 8. Super strong carries and carrier of the ball and goes into tackles dominantly. She has been one of the standout players for FNB UKZN Ladies alongside Fihlela and won the FNB Player That Rocks award in the Impi match agains UFH.

The FNB NWU Eagles surged to the top of the FNB Varsity Cup standings after a hard-fought home victory over FNB UP-Tuks in Round 5. At the Green Mile the Maroon Machine got their revenge from last year’s final and secured bragging rights in the Cape derby, claiming a bonus-point win over defending champs FNB UCT Ikeys. The Orange Army claimed another big scalp and kept their semifinal hopes alive with a solid win over the Shimlas at UJ Stadium while at the bottom of the standings, the FNB Comets produced a dramatic victory to overcome the struggling Ixias.   FNB UCT 7-34 FNB Maties FNB Maties scored a valuable bonus-point victory away to Western Cape rivals FNB UCT Ikeys to kick off Round five. The men from Stellenbosch collected maximum points in Cape Town to beat defending champions by 34-7. Both sides needed to have their wits about them in the windy conditions on the Green Mile with Ikey Tigers heading into the clash as favourites. FNB Maties found themselves on the back foot in early exchanges, but it was the visitors who opened the scoring against the run of play inside 10 minutes. FNB UCT were on the front foot and misplaced a pass inside the Stellenbosch 22 leading to a breakaway that resulted in Luan Botha dotting down for a Point of Origin try after six minutes. The Ikey Tigers needed to navigate tricky spell of play with 14-men shortly after with captain Enos Ndiao going to the bin for cynical play. Maties headed into the break with a slender lead after a gruelling first half where they needed to absorb waves of Ikeys pressure. Despite spending majority of the first period in their own half, they led by seven-points at the break. The Maroon Machine came out firing in the to kick off the second period with tries aplenty. First, Stellies skipper, Ezekiel Ngobeni, showed some slick skills and quick thinking to get his side’s second try. Sensing a shift in momentum, Ngobeni opted for the Tap which worked a treat as Zuko Poswa crashed over the line just 24 seconds later for a 17-0 lead. The visitors had their tails up and scored their bonus point try shortly after the restart courtesy of prop, Janlu Basson. The Stellies front rower bagged a brace of tries within two minutes - one of them coming from another successful Tap by the visiting team that saw them race into a 29-0 lead on enemy territory. The hosts hit back with a seven-pointer that was finished off by Jack Benade a few moments later but just couldn’t seem to impose themselves on the contest. The gusty conditions caused problems for both sides, but Stellies were able to keep their mistakes to a minimum. Maties ran in their sixth try after the hooter sounded after a well-worked scrum set piece that went through the hands and eventually saw Mckyle Volmoer finishing off the move for a 34-7 success over their archrivals.   Round 5 HIGHLIGHTS: FNB UCT vs FNB Maties - 16 March 2026 SCORERS   FNB UCT: (0) 7 Tries: Jack Benade   FNB Maties:  (7) 34 Tries: Janlu Basson X2, Luan Botha, Ezekiel Ngobeni, Zuko Poswa, Mckyle Volmoer   FNB Player of the Match: Ezekiel Ngobeni (FNB Maties)   TEAMS: FNB UCT Ikeys: Matthew Beckett, Tian Vorster, Phiko Zuka, Enos Ndiao (C), Connor Jack Gordon, Isaiah Louw, Eric Basson, Aidan Norris, Monray Daars, Alex Vermeulen, Lezane Davis, Amahle Mazibuko, Bruce Campbell, Jack Benade, Setshaba Mokoena, Nic Van Schalkwyk, Mhleli Khuzwayo, Tumelo Noah, Adam De Waal, Aiden De Costa, Sethu Zungu, Jacques Cloete, Sino Brawen. FNB Maties: Janlu Basson, CJ Erasmus, Keanuh Michaels, Zuko Poswa, Luan Botha, Fortune Mpofu, Louw Du Toit, Tjaart Joubert, Ezekiel Ngobeni (C), Christiaan van Heerden Smith, Huhgo Van Zitters, CJ Marx, Samuel Badenhorst, Ryan Manuel, Dawie Stemmet, Jason Johnson, Danie Kruger, Luke Swartz, Mckyle Volmoer, Simon Liversage, Louis Fourie.   FNB UJ 29-17 FNB Shimlas  FNB UJ kept their hopes of reaching the semifinals of the FNB Varsity Cup alive after delivering a gritty performance to defeat FNB Shimlas 29-17 at the UJ Stadium on Monday. The Orange Army entered the clash on the back of a humiliating 87-28 loss against FNB UCT a week ago. It was a slow start to the game, and things lit up after the 20-minute mark when hooker Francois Prinsloo barged over from a rolling maul. FNB UJ extended their lead in the 27th minute when electric winger, Mnelis Gamede, sliced through the FNB Shimlas defence to dot over untouched. The hosts weren’t done yet and punished FNB UFS for their lack of discipline. Prinsloo crashed over from close range for his second to see his side lead 19-0 at the break. The Orange Army started the second half brightly and extended their lead by seven points when Toy Engelbercht barged over from close range. They dropped the ball after that score, and it was all FNB Shimlas. The visitors upped the tempo, and scrumhalf Erich Visser bagged a brace within eight minutes to make for an interesting final 20 minutes. Both sides struggled to capitalise on several numerical advantages, and UJ slotted a penalty with three minutes remaining through JT Kapank to seal the win. The Shimlas, however, had the last say when Faasen Laubscher crashed over. That came a little bit too late, and UJ held on for the win to maintain their unbeaten record at home.   Round 5 HIGHLIGHTS: FNB UJ vs FNB UFS - 16 March 2026 SCORERS: FNB UJ: (19) 29 Tries  : Francois Prinsloo X2, Mnelisi Gamede, Toy Engelbercht.   FNB Shimlas: (0) 12 Tries:  Erich Visser X2, Faasen Laubscher.    FNB Player of the Match:  Thabang Mphafi (FNB UJ)   TEAMS  FNB UJ : Sifiso Magwaza, Francois Prinsloo, Damian Baker, Jaythen Orange, Juan Fourie, Toy Engelbercht, Josh Du Toit, Thabang Mphafi ©, Berwyn Bosch, JT Kapank, Mnelis Gumede, Reuven Ferreira, Exauce Kevani, Tholithemba Sibisi, Jeandre Uithaler. FNB Shimlas:  Musa Teboho Moshoaliba, Jacobus Bezuidenhout, Sibabalwe Booi, HJ de Beer, Juan Venter, Henri van Heerden, Sandile Nzuza, Liam Shamburg, Erich Visser, Bradley Pierre Giddy ©, Keehan Etson, Freddie Dreyer, Wynard Botha, Kirwin du Preez, Siviwe Zondani.    FNB Emeris 26-24 FNB CUT The clash between FNB Emeris and FNB CUT Ixias turned into a crucial battle in the fight to avoid relegation, with both sides desperate to secure valuable points. The match began with intense physicality as the teams approached the contest cautiously, focusing on structured play and minimizing early mistakes. The cracks started to inevitably come as visitors began making some errors as their winger recurved a sometime out on a yellow card.  FNB Emeris wasted no time from then to take the advantage as they received a good line out from a few meters out; captain Jacques Marais carried the ball to dot down for his team in a driving maul. Frederick Marx made no mistakes on the conversion kick as he gave his team 7 points.  Just a minute after the first half Strategy break, momentum was with the home team.  The FNB Emeris eventually found some space in the defense of the visitors, left flanker Thando Luthuli dropped a shoulder and steps out a defender of the Ixias to dot down. Tensions quickly escalated as The Comets opted for the tap power play which worked beautifully as Chijindu found some space behind the FNB CUT backline to dot down.  Right before the halftime break came, FNB CUT announced their presence on the scoreboard Jade Muller who was sent off the pitch earlier in the game found some space in the backline of the home team to dot down for a POR try.  Halftime came and the score was 17-7 to the home team FNB Emeris.  The second half began on a high not as the home team looked to extend their lead quickly into the half, which they did so. Fullback Chijindu Okonta bagged himself a brace in a POR try. Fly half Frederick Marx extended the lead with a successful conversion taking the score to 26–7. FNB Ixias made things more interesting as they made their presence on the score felt once more. Matthys Malan bumped his man off to dot down for his team. The visitors opted for the tap power play which they worked beautifully, Jade Muller made amends of his mistake earlier in the match as he dotted down for his brace taking the score to 26–17.  The goosebumps grew exponentially as the visitors bagged in another try by Winton Abrahams Kehan Myburgh good on the conversion 26–24 with 10 minutes to play.  The nerves were high for the last minutes of the game as just 2 points separated the team.  FNB Emeris managed to hang on their lead and claim their first win of the tournament.  Round 5 HIGHLIGHTS: FNB Emeris vs FNB CUT - 16 March 2026 SCORERS FNB Emeris  : (17) 26 Tries :  Jacques Marais, Thando Luthuli, Chijindu Okonta X2   FNB CUT : (7) 24 Tries:  Jade Muller X2, Matthys Malan, Winton Abrahams.   FNB Player of the Match : Chijindu Okonta (FNB Emeris)   FNB Emeris : Christoff Etzebeth, Jacques Marais, Nathi Ntuli, Garren Muller, Sphephelo Mbonambi, Thando Luthuli, Meno Barnard, Juan Steyl, Abande Mthembu, Fedrick Marx, Edward Sigauke, Mambo Mkhize, Chris Horak, Nkazimulo Mzolo, Chijindu Okonta. FNB CUT: Jan Hendricks Bessenger, Tokelo Ntaopane, Vuyo Holiday, Petrus Nel, Oyama Frans, Jordan Davis, Dean Sciocatti, Hope Seyaga, Raydon Swartbooi, Kehan Myburgh, Jade Muller, Winton Abrahams, Matthys Malan, Kutlo Seyoko, Devinto Vergotine.    FNB NWU Eagles 30-22 FNB UP-Tuks FNB NWU Eagles secured an important 30-22 victory over FNB UP-Tuks at the Fanie du Toit Sportsground on Monday, moving to the top of the FNB Varsity Cup log. The result also handed FNB UP-Tuks their first defeat of the tournament especially in the first half where they dominated both possession and territory. The home side scored three tries before the break and went into halftime leading 23–5. The crowd created an electric atmosphere, with loud support pushing the Eagles forward throughout the match.   Despite playing without their captain Stephen Krugel for the first time this season, FNB NWU remained organised and confident. FNB UP-Tuks fought back in the second half and managed to add more points, but the Eagles stayed in control to secure the win. Tries for NWU were scored by Zack Serfontein, Leejay Peterson, Jordan McLoughlin and Luan van der Walt. Tuks responded with tries from Akha Mjawule and Gustav van der Merwe, who crossed the line twice. NWU scrumhalf Zack Serfontein, wearing jersey number nine, was named the Player that Rocks after a strong performance that helped guide the Eagles’ attack. The victory strengthens NWU’s position in the competition as the tournament continues.   Round 5 HIGHLIGHTS: FNB NWU vs FNB Tuks - 16 March 2026 SCORERS   FNB NWU: (23) 30Tries:  Zack Serfontein, Leejay Peterson, Jordan McLoughlin, Andile Myeni, Luan van der Walt.   FNB UP-Tuks: (5) 22Tries:  Akha Mjawule, Gustav van der Merwe X2.   FNB Player of the Match: Zack Serfontein (FNB NWU Eagles)   TEAMS   FNB NWU Eagles: Alethwa Buthelezi, Jordan McLoughlin, Jason Oosthuizen, Tian van Zyl, Raniel Turner, Ricardo Fourie, Schalk van Schalkwyk, Gujan du Bois, Zack Serfontein, Ruan van Willing, Leejay Peterson, Matthew Fortuin, Luyolo Doyi, Luan van der Walt. FNB UP-Tuks: MJ Nel, Jean Fourie, Jayd Austin, Oelof de Meyer, David Engongo, Guvandre Moses, Ben Jansen van Vuuren, Dilon Smith, Akha Mjawule, Divan du Toit, Munashe Vlok, Kobus Janse van Rensburg, Andile Myeni, Hopewell Ntshangase.

It hasn't been smooth sailing for current FNB Varsity Shield champions, FNB Emeris, who are having a tough FNB Varsity Cup debut season this year and their coach Jeremy McLaren has admitted that things have not gone as planned this year for the men from Durban. “I think the nature of the competition is that life will be difficult if you’re in year one. Obviously we had some planning going before the start of the competition to try and win more than just one game. Or to just be in the competition for survival. We tried to prep as good as we could have” The FNB Comets have collected just a single [bonus] point on the league table and have lost all of their games so far. McLaren still believes that the defeats have not come as an inability from his men, rather, as a result of common trends for debuting teams in the competition as well as the high difference in level between the FNB Varsity Cup and Shield. “I think if you look at three years back when FNB UWC was in it as well, they were also pretty under the pump” “What makes it difficult is that you only have one year to try, especially as a new university, to try and establish what this competition takes out of you. We are not a bad team. It is a few youngsters who are learning the trade. Winning the FNB Varsity Shield is also a different level so it’s for us to understand what it means going against these big traditional university.” FNB Emeris have it all to play for in the match on Monday against FNB CUT in what is almost a battle for survival clash of which McLaren believes will be an even difficult encounter. “Monday is a massive game against CUT I think for them they also realize it’s a massive game so it’s probably all to play for” “I think CUT Ixias has really still shown as part of their scores as well that they are a pretty tough team” said the Comets mentor. “I think, not going well is probably the nature of it, we have learnt some lessons and we somehow have to find some solutions” added the Comets coach.\ “In the last few weeks we now just have to go and do as well as we can and see if we can find ourselves in a position to survive the competition and learn from it. I think we just have to be a little bit more consistent and we have also seen some individual errors have cost us. The higher the level goes the stronger your individual skill has to be. Massive challenge for us this coming Monday. And we hope it can go our way” he concluded. By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

Round five of the FNB Varsity Cup sees the highly anticipated Cape Town derby between FNB UCT Ikeys and FNB Maties at the Green Mile. Last season’s champions will battle for more than just bragging rights as we enter the business end of the competition. The Ikey Tigers are four-points clear and sit two places above their old foes heading into a season-defining clash in Cape Town. Crucial log points, bragging rights and momentum will be there for the taking in the early Round 5 kick off. Robbie Fleck’s side will be looking for their third win in a row as they target a finish in the top two. Another success under the Monday night lights could very well depend on the form of scrumhalf, Monray Daars. The energetic number nine played a pivotal role in UCT’s 59-point win over FNB UJ. He covered virtually every blade of grass against the Orange Army and ran in two tries – earning him the Player that Rocks award. Daars was delighted to pick up the award after being forced to sit out in Round 3. "I was out with an injury the previous week and all I could think about was making it through that game staying healthy, it really was a surreal moment. I feel like it could've gone either way within our team as we had a lot of great individual performances on Monday”. The Ikeys halfback expects a big battle ahead of Monday’s meeting with Maties. “We expect nothing less than a dog fight, both teams want to win! UCT vs Maties is always a tough game. Hopefully we can put up a great show for everyone that’s coming to watch and everyone that’s watching from home”. The 21-year-old also revealed that there’s a big emphasis on staying present within the team setup. “We are really focused on what we need to do, if we execute our plans well enough everything will fall into place, but for me I'm just trying to stay in the moment, not thinking too much about the past and what lies ahead.”   By: Kieryn Thompson.

The last time the two powerhouses met it was in the 2025 FNB Varsity Cup final and the Maroon Machine left as runners-up losing 44-21 . They meet again on Monday in round 5 and this time FNB Maties have their sights set on a big win in Cape Town as they head to the Green Mile. They have experienced indifferent form so far this campaign, having won and lost on two occasions. Those results leave them in fifth place, but firmly in the mix for a spot in the knockout stages. Despite their early-season struggles, they find themselves just four-points behind the defending champions in third. The Maroon Machine will be brimming with confidence following a 35-point home success over FNB Emeris in Round three. Stellies will be hoping for another stellar performance from midfielder,   Samuel Badenhorst, who was in red-hot form in Round four. The Stellenbosch centre was in a menacing mood against Emeris, causing all sorts of problems with ball-in-hand, that saw him score two tries and walk away as the FNB Player that Rocks. Badenhorst is excited by his team’s trip to the Green Mile and says, “The team is ready for the challenge”. Maties seemingly struggled to get out of second gear against Emeris in their last outing – something they’ll be looking to put right against UCT. “As a team, we decided to just go full out from the start for 80 minutes and leave everything on the field.” said Badenhorst. The Maroon Machine are confident heading into the clash in the Cape and revealed that the squad have “bought in” to the gameplan set out by the coaching staff. Maties will be hoping they can repeat the result from last season’s round robin phase where they come out on top at Danie Craven. This time around, they won’t have the luxury of playing in front of their home support and will need to have their wits about them in the tricky Green Mile conditions. “We think it is going to be windy as it always is but we are prepared for it and ready for the challenge” said Badenhorst. By: Kieryn Thompson

The FNB CUT Ixias see Monday night’s clash as a golden opportunity to finally break their duck in the FNB Varsity Cup when they take on the newcomers, FNB Emeries, in Durban. It’s a massive game for both sides. Neither team has managed to secure a victory in the opening four rounds of the competition, meaning Monday’s result could play a crucial role in determining who avoids finishing at the bottom of the log and the looming threat of relegation. With so much at stake, the intensity is expected to be high. The Ixias have shown flashes of their potential during the campaign, but those moments have been too few and far between to make a sustained impact. For the Bloemfontein outfit, the key now will be producing a complete 80-minute performance. Scrumhalf Raydon Swartbooi, one of the more experienced players in the side, believes the team must build on the positives they have shown so far and bring everything together against Emeris. “Monday’s match against Varsity College in Durban is going to be a very important one. They are, like us, in the same boat, so it’s definitely not a game we are taking lightly,” said Swartbooi. “Our focus is on preparation. In previous games we saw that things which worked for us during the week didn’t always come together on match day. Now it’s about putting everything together and delivering a good, all-round performance. We need to put the puzzle pieces together and play a full 80 minutes of good rugby. That’s something we felt we were missing a bit in the previous game.” Swartbooi, the younger brother of Xavier Swartbooi - a FNB CUT rugby legend who now plays for SWD in the SA Cup - said the squad fully understands the gravity of their situation and the importance of getting their first win on the board. “This is a big match for us and we don’t want to leave CUT in a difficult position. The next few games are very important for the team. We all know how big this game is. That’s where experience will come in. We might not have a lot of it, but the experience we do have will need to show when it matters. We’ll have to put our hands up and show what we can do. It’s going to be a big one.” Monday night’s first-ever clash between FNB Emeries and the Ixias at Varsity College Durban North kicks off at 19:00.

The meaning of playing in the FNB Varsity Cup is something many people easily take for granted while watching the action from the sidelines or on television on a Monday night, but for the players it means everything. A player like the versatile Maynard Kleynhans of the FNB UFS Shimlas hails from the town of Tzaneen in Limpopo, but got his first real opportunity at Hoërskool Garsfontein in Pretoria. From there he found his way to Bloemfontein to join a programme that has produced more than 70 Springboks and close to 30 Blitzboks. Kleynhans impressed on debut with a superb try against Maties in round one, and after recovering from injury he was arguably the best Shimla on the park during Monday’s 45–31 defeat to the NWU Eagles. The hard-working Kleynhans said simply pulling the famous royal blue jersey over his head is something incredibly special. “Shimlas have a lot of tradition. In the team room there are photos of the former Springboks who came through here, and every time we have a team meeting you see them,” he said. “It makes you realise that you also want your name and photo there one day. We always say to each other that we want to leave the jersey in a better place than we found it – you’re playing for something bigger than yourself.” Meanwhile, in round five the Shimlas will look to bounce back when they face the UJ Orange Army in Johannesburg, and Kleynhans said they remain a quality side and must simply go out and do the job. “I believe if we can beat our own mistakes, we can beat anyone. We are a very talented side with a lot of special players, and I honestly think we’re one of the most talented teams in the Varsity Cup. If we can just put everything together, it will be very good for us. UJ are a quality side with a lot of Lions players, and it’s never easy playing them in Johannesburg." “We’ll have to be spot-on. We had a good flush-out session and put the last game behind us, so the focus is now fully on Monday. Each game is like a final for us and we’re taking UJ very seriously. If we dominate the basics and execute our plan, we’ll give ourselves a great chance.” Monday’s game in Johannesburg kicks off at 19:00.

The Impi Ladies staged a brilliant comeback to secure their second win of the season against FNB UFH Women at Howard College Stadium in Round 2 of the FNB Varsity Cup Women. FNB UWC also impressed, delivering a strong second-half performance to claim a convincing 26-7 victory over FNB UJ. Meanwhile, FNB UP-Tuks stunned the defending champions in a thrilling five-try encounter at Tuks Stadium.   FNB UKZN Women 26-14 FNB UFH Women A second half dramatic comeback by the Impi Ladies helped the KZN team to claim a bonus point win with the results reading 26-14 to the home team.  Both the FNB UFH Women and FNB UKZN Women started the match with dominance, combining well and testing each other’s strengths early on the game. However, nothing fruitful came after 15 minutes of play.  After a massive tug of war between the two teams, it was the visiting team FNB UFH that drew first blood as Masie Mathangane found some space through the Impi back line, and scoring the first try of the game. Inga Qogi made no mistake on the conversion to claim all seven points for the Blues.  Just before the halftime whistle, the Blues captain Lilitha Vakalisa went over the try line after consistent pressure by the away team. Qogi made no mistake on the conversion to take the half time score to 14–0 to FNB UFH.  It was in the second half where the story of the match was rewritten as FNB UKZN looked the more promising team right from the first minute of the half.  Just five minutes into the second half, Impi inside centre, Asanda Mnyandu, sold a beautiful dummy pass which tore the Blues defense apart, leading to FNB UKZN’s first try of the day. Star fullback Siphesihle Fihlela struck the right post in a failed conversion.  About ten minutes later, IMPI piled in the pressure even more until their hooker Nondu Yengwa dotted down from a driving maul. A try topped up by a Fihlela conversion to take the score to 12–14 points.  As the pressure continued to buildup, the hosts tried different means to get ahead of visitors FNB UFH as the Impi tried to turnover a penalty kick from about 35 meters away through their star player Fihlela, however the effort failed as the kick lost power less than 5 meters away from the poles.  Ten minutes before the match ended, IMPI began playing a beautiful brand of rugby, as the ball exchanged hands in quick succession leading to the third try by the home team Dimpho Mogashoa going over the try line in style. Fihlela adding the conversion kick.  The last nail was put in by Asanda Mnyandu who bagged her brace of tries in the final minute of the game for the fourth and bonus try for FNB UKZN. Fihlela converted well as her kick became the last action of the match. FNB UKZN completing a successful turnaround in the second half.    SCORERS   FNB UKZN Women : (0) 26 Tries:  Asanda Mnyandu X2, Nondu Yengwa, Dimpho Mogashoa   FNB UFH Women:  (14) 14 Tries:  Masie Mathangane, Lilitha Vakalisa.   FNB Player of the Match:  Hlekani Baloyi (FNB UKZN)   FNB UKZN Women : Sandulelo Nyawose, Nonduduzo Yengwa, Siphokuhle Mdletshe, Avela Gwala, Lulama Cele, Athiphile Njiyela, Nosipho Mkhize, Hlekane Baloyi, Snethemba Mzimela, Neo Mokwena, Mahlogonolo Nkoane, Asanda Mnyandu, Teddy Gatyana, Zanele Hlongwane, Sphesihle Fihlela. FNB UFH Women : Mila Wawa, Simnikiwe Mlakalaka, Eyam Ngalo, Siphelelwe Dlamini, Masie Mathangane, Aphiwe Nqana, Thokozani Sikela, Rose Haka, Sindisiwe Mbanjwa, Sinekhaya Tywaleni,  Cwenga Joni, Lilitatha Vakalisa, Sibabalwe Jobo, Lithi Tofu, Inga Qogi   FNB UWC Women 26-7 FNB UJ Women FNB UWC secured a convincing 26-7 victory over FNB UJ after a strong second-half performance in their Varsity Cup Women clash. The Caracals took an early lead in the early minutes of the game when scrumhalf Fatouma Yalcoue crossed the whitewash to score the opening try. Marli George added the conversion to give the home side a headstart following a well-worked point-of-origin move. The Orange Army responded just before the break when Alutha Ngcezula crossed the whitewash for the visitors, and Siham Chtioui slotted the conversion to cut the deficit just before half-time. FNB UWC came out with renewed intensity in the second half and began to take control of the match. Fullback Nandile Mvandaba extended the lead with a try out wide, although the conversion attempt was unsuccessful, pushing the score further from the visitors. Momentum firmly shifted in the operation room in the favour of the hosts as they continued to apply pressure. Asiphe Mayaba crossed the line in the and the successful conversion stretched the lead. The home side put the result beyond doubt late in the game when Ronecia Gordan added another try in the closing stages. The conversion attempt ran out of time, but the Caracals had already done enough to seal the match. At full-time, FNB UWC emerged 26 – 07 winners over FNB UJ, capping off a dominant second-half display after a closely contested opening forty minutes. SCORERS FNB UWC Women:  (9) 26 Tries:  Fatouma Yalcoue (POR), Nandile Mvandaba, Asiphe Mayaba, Ronecia Gordan. FNB UJ Women:  (7) 7 Tries:  Alutha Ngcezula   FNB Player of the Match: Nandile Mvandaba (FNB UWC Women) TEAMS FNB UWC Women:  Sange Makhwezela; Jada Davids; lviwe Jonas; Kaylee Daniels; Mivuyo Pawuli; Samukelisiwe Miweni; Akhona Nkosi; Lithethaa Maghude; Fatouma Yalcoue; Marli George; Asiphe Mayaba; Abongwe Vilane; Ronecia Gordon; Lee Amber Beukes; Nandile Mvandaba FNB UJ Women:   Vuyiswa Dlamini; Salizwa Tyali; Alutha Ngcezula; Sphilile Sigwaza; Limamkele Duma; Nomcebo Mchunu; Siyanda Mtsweni; Thabisile Zungu; Risper Mgwenya; Siham Chtioui; Boitumelo Motshoane; Sinoyolo Nqinekile; Sindiswa Ngwenya; Erica Ekeji; Hlobisile Mbatha.   FNB UP-Tuks Women 29-26 FNB Maties Women FNB UP-Tuks Women stun defending champions 29-26 in a thrilling encounter to hand FNB Maties Women their second defeat of the season. The 2025 runners-up FNB UP-Tuks Women locked horns with defending champions FNB Maties Women in a repeat of last season’s final showpiece. The Stripe looking for their second win of the season while Maties hungry to taste victory. The opening half showed intensity as anticipated with both sides throwing everything they have at each other. In a tightly contested match, the clash was no short of tries. The visitors were the first to put numbers on the board. Catherine Coetzee powered over the line for the first try of the afternoon before Kwanga Majebe cancelling out her try to hand the home side a tight lead inside the first 20 minutes.  Maties found their rhythm early as they went to score their second try courtesy of Sesethu Dumke. Tuks proved lethal in attack as Lidene Kruger level matters flying over the line wide following a brilliant solo run.  Tt was 12 all at the interval in the closely contested clash. Hungry for their maiden victory in 2026, Maties took the immediately after the break. From there it was Tuks party as they proved stronger.  Maroon Machine’s Ankia Viljoen flew over the line and converted her own try to give the visitors the lead again. The Stripe Generation however did not hold back as they responded swiftly through Thandi Mokatse from another powerful forwards play. Back-to-back tries for the home side as they extended their lead with Kruger completing her brace.  Substitute Georgia-lee Lewis stretched the margin further with a cheeky play, selling a dummy in front of the five-meter line. Maties responded late in the dying minutes with Dumke’s brace however it was not enough as the Stellenbosch side still winless this season. Tuks sealing a 29-26 triumph over the defending champs.    SCORERS   FNB UP-Tuks Women:  (12) 29 Tries:  Kwanga Majebe, Lidene Kruger X2, Thandi Mokatse, Georgia-lee Lewis,    FNB Maties Women:  (12) 26 Tries:  Catherine Coetzee, Sesethu Dumke X2, Ankia Viljoen,    FNB Player of the Match:  Abigail de Jager (FNB UP-Tuks)   TEAMS   FNB UP-Tuks Women : Cassidy Jacobs, Aphiwe Masuku, Ox Xholi, Itumeleng Malala, Mbali Ndlovu ©, Thandi Mokatse, Angelique Ross-Allen, Gugu Mncwabe, Precious Tlaka, Abigail de Jager, Candice De Wet, Amukelani Lisenga, Lerato Tshabalala, Lidene Kruger, Kwanga Majebe.  FNB Maties Women : Sesethu Dumke ©, Juan-Mari Du Plessis, Sesethu Ntamnani, Sarah Krone, Catherine Coetzee, Stefney-Rose De Vries, Khanyisile Mpingane, Coby Mentoor, Taliyah Bussack, Ankia Viljoen, Jo-eke Haas, Jenna Meyer, Courtney Hickson, Wendy Lewak, Zikhona Plaatjies.

FNB Wits strengthened their grip at the top of the FNB Varsity Shield standings after Round 5, demolishing FNB Madibaz 63-8. In another high-scoring clash, FNB UFH delivered a tremendous display of grit and determination at Suzuki Stadium, overpowering FNB SPU to boost their hopes of avoiding relegation. FNB WSU produced a clinical first-half performance before holding off a spirited second-half comeback from FNB CPUT to secure victory in Bellville. Meanwhile, a strong first-half surge from the Caracals proved enough to seal a hard-fought win in a tight contest at Peter Booysen Stadium.   FNB Madibaz 8- 63 FNB Wits There was only one thing hotter than the weather in Gqeberha on Friday afternoon and that was the form of FNB Wits. The build-up to this top-of-the-table clash was massive but 20 minutes into the first half it quickly became clear that there was only one side in it. The visitors’ tries came thick and fast after Layron Milborrow gave FNB Madibaz the early lead through a penalty. No 8 Liam Santos got the try-fest underway, followed by a powerful run down the right and dot-down by wing Dustyn Holmes - the first of his three five-pointers of the afternoon. The pressure continued building on FNB Madibaz, leading to infringements that saw two of their players binned within minutes of one another. FNB Wits smelled blood and spread the ball from their own 22. FNB Madibaz were back-pedalling and had little chance of stopping the momentum, with Wits flanker Christopher Kachungunu cantering in for his first try. Santos scored his second 12 minutes before the break and when prop Meyer Opperman added one of his own just before the half-time hooter the writing was already on the wall. The second stanza went the same way as the first. Holmes ran in for his second before Wits finally made a tap option count. Replacement prop Ricardo Brandao barged over for the first of his two tries after the visitors moved the ball quickly. Holmes brought up his hattrick with a sensational bit of skill, catching a kick-pass in the in-goal area and having the strength and presence of mind to get it down in time. Kachungunu, wing Lindani Dweba and Brandao all crossed the whitewash in the last quarter to seal what can only be described as a crushing victory for the FNB Varsity Shield log leaders.   SCORERS   FNB Madibaz: (3) 8 Tries:  Bahle Cengani   FNB Wits : (29) 63 Tries : Dustyn Holmes X3, Liam Santos X2, Christopher Kachungunu X2, Meyer Opperman, Ricardo Brandao X2, Lindani Dweba.   FNB Player of the Match:  Dustyn Holmes (FNB Wits)   TEAMS: FNB Madibaz: Imibongo Mvuleni, Kyle Erasmus, Aj Flemming, Luan Verster, Calvin Bosch, Corne Cloete, Dewald Gerber, Sean Van Zijl, Cameron Doyle, Layron Milborrow, Cole Hilpert, Qurin Cupido, Edward Kruger, Jaden Witbooi, Caleb Friskin. FNB Wits: Ronan Dutton, Bonga Nxumalo, Meyer Opperman, Lian Terblanche, Hayden Munnery, Adem Niewoudt, Christopher Kachungunu, Liam Santos, Bryce Samuel, Matthew Coetzee, Lindani Dweba, Tirhani Masondo, Keith Chirwa, Dustyn Holmes, Latica Nela.   FNB SPU 34-61 FNB UFH A tremendous display of guts and determination from the visitors FNB UFH powered them over the line in what proved to be a crucial battle to avoid the drop. From the opening minutes, the match delivered hard-hitting action, with both teams showing plenty of physicality. The home side FNB SPU struck first when they were awarded a penalty try in just the second minute, adding the conversion to take an early 7-0 lead. The home team added to the score board in the 7 th  minute of the game with Devian Ambrose dotting down a simple try after some great work from the backline and it looked like FNB SPU would run riot on the day.  However, after the strategy break the away team showed up with a clear game plan and a mastered mind, one of the most amazing comebacks we have witnessed at the Sukuzi Stadium.  From the 25 th minute of the game FNB UFH took the game away from FNB SPU scoring a try from their loose head prop Elihle Mshemla to bring them back in the game, they added to that with a power play try to make it 12-10 and before the crowd could even take a breath they added another try by their full back Ukho Nomsatha, he brought the stadium with a highlight reel of a try that should live long in the memory of those in attendance, 12-15 to FNB UFH. They took the power play and drove home the advantage to make it 12-20.  FNB UFH further silenced the home crowd when left wing Alizwa Majila crossed for their third try of the evening, stretching the visitors’ lead to 27-12. The momentum looked firmly in UFH’s favour as they controlled much of the first half. However, just before the break, FNB SPU struck back through their flyhalf, who produced a brilliant breakaway try to keep the hosts within touching distance. At half-time, the scoreboard read FNB SPU 17-27 FNB UFH, with the visitors holding a valuable lead heading into the second half. The onslaught continued in the second half of the game as FNB UFH added more pain to the home team by adding to the score board with a penalty try in the 42 nd minute of the second half. They added another try quickly after that by an error from SPU which was picked up by Bulumko Mfundisi to make the score 44-17.  FNB SPU scored their first try of the half in the 50 th  minute to make it  44-22. This was quickly cancelled out by FNB UFH with a penalty try. FNB UFH made sure of the game with a break away try from their scrum half Anongile Yeye to make the game FNB UFH 54-22 FNB SPU with 20 minutes to play. They put the final nail in the coffin in the 66 th  minute with their final try of the game with another brilliant try by one of the main characters of the night, fullback Ukho Nomsatha to end the game as a contest.  FNB SPU tried to stage a late comeback with the first of two tries by number 22 Keletso Seoposengwe who was a late substitute and that was followed by another quick try by Dwayne Lubbe to make it 34-61 with 5 minutes remaining on the clock. However, FNB SPU lost both power plays and that took the wind out the sails and the men from Alice took the win to break the hearts of those in attendance at the Sukuzi stadium.     SCORERS:  FNB SPU : (17) 34 Tries:  Devian Ambrose, Chadwin Sellidon, Keletso Seoposengwe, Dwayne Lubbe, Tumi Papane, Penalty Try.   FNB UFH:  (27) 61 Tries : Elihle Mtshemla, Bulumko Mfundisi, Alizwa Majila, Ukho Nomsatha X2, Anda Simanga, Abongile Yeye, PT-PP, Penalty Try.   FNB Player of the Match:  Ukho Nomsatha (FNB UFH)   TEAMS:   FNB SPU : Liam Harmse, Ntokozo Ndwalane, Aiden Holtzhausen, Jacobus Johannes Fourie, Joshus Vomberg, Tyron (C) China, Kabelo Keagile, Devine Ambrose, Aswen Rademeyer, Chadwin Sellidon, Raees Sahabodien, Liyabona Maplanga, Jaiden (V) Faviers, Michael Prinsloo, Calvin Paulsen. FNB UFH : Elihle Mtshemla, Bunono Jamani, Liyabona Matyana, Mpho Ramahala, Liyema Hitane, Alizwa Majila, Anda Simanga, Iminathi Macoli, Abongile Yey, Salusiwe Gxekwa, Liyema Ngoyi, Lisolethu Jali, Takudzwa Rushiza, Buluko Mfundisi, Ukho Nomsatha.   FNB UKZN 15-22 FNB UWC It was an entertaining first half comeback by FNB UWC who scored four points after going 15 points down to none in the first 15 minutes of the game in Pietermaritzburg, KZN. The visitors managed to secure a bonus point victory after the score ended 22-15 with all points coming in the first half.    FNB UKZN were the ones to draw the first punches of the match courtesy of their flankers, Lonwabo Nkalitshana and Ndabezinhle Ngubane as the home team opted for a tap power play which was successful, less than 5 minutes into the game.  Impi piled in the pressure to secure their third try of the match from a heavy maul which was finished off by their hooker Jordan Ramsamy. By the time the first strategy break came, Impi was leading by 15-0.  The match was to see a different tale in the second part of the first half as FNB UWC came back stronger.  FNB Caracals managed to get their points as Marciano Forbes dotted down from a quick try after the restart. The men from the Cape failed to do anything in their attempt to use their tap power play.  FNB UWC came strong again on the home side 10 minutes later as Graigon Matroos shoved his man to make his way to the try line touch down. The power play was activated by the visitors, and their second attempt was successful as Hlomla Ncana received a champagne pass from out wide to dot down taking the score to a 15–15 tie.  Right at the end of the half, FNB UWC were not done as they used the momentum of the game to their advantage. 8th Man Anele Magadla went in physically on the Impi defender carrying him successfully to go over and under the poles for the fourth and last try of the match. Fullback Aaron Swartz made no mistake on the conversion kick, taking the score to a close 22–15 score to the visitors at the break.  The second came with a lot of physicality as both teams tried their best and were very close to getting something but close was not enough.  FNB UKZN used the last ten minutes attacking high up the field of play but the Caracals deep defense was up to the task as they were able to hold the lead down.  The match ended in a close one, the victory belonging to the visiting team.   SCORERS   FNB UKZN: (15) 15 Tries: Lonwabo Nkalintshana, Ndabezinhle Ngubane, Jordan Ramsamy     FNB UWC: (22) 22 Tries: Marciano Forbes, Graigon Matroos, Hlomla Ncana, Anele Magadla.   FNB Player of the Match: Aaron Swartz (FNB UWC)   FNB UKZN: Prince Nyathi, Jordan Raamsamy, Ulrich Walker, Amu Rennenuenim , Tylo Madaat, Lonwabo Nkalintshana, Ndabezinhle Ngubane, Nhlakanipho Buthelezi, Lian Lochner, Juan Viljoen, Eloko Kayekeze, Frederick Malgas, Ntobeko Mhlongo, Jovawn Visagie, Siso France.   FNB UWC: Hlonela Qelile, Marciano Forbes, Graigan Matroos, Logan Fortuin, Melumzi Mandongana, Melvin Diedericks, Danston Cloeteof, Anele Magadla, Fra-Neeco Baron, Nhlamulo Shilubane, Leachim Adams , Denver Van Wyk, Hlomla Ncana, Juma Amisi, Aaron Swartz. FNB CPUT 22-34 FNB WSU FNB WSU produced a clinical first half performance before holding off a spirited second-half comeback from FNB CPUT to claim a 34-22 victory at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. The All Blacks opened the scoring early in the game when Sandisiwe Mkwayimba crossed the line for a clean try and Isiphe Mbini added the conversion to give the visitors an early lead. Mkwayimba struck again in the finishing off another attacking move to extend their advantage. The successful tap and kick play pushed the score even further for the vistors. Just before the break, Lukhangele Tshayi added to the troubles of the Blue Wave with a try followed by a successful conversion, sending FNB WSU into halftime with a commanding lead. The Blue Wave came out with renewed energy in the second half with Jacquin Jacobus powering over for the hosts’ first try of the evening, with the tap and kick play successful to narrow the gap between the teams. Momentum began to swing towards FNB CPUT just five minutes later when Yibanathi Daki crossed the line and Reuben Noble calmly slotted the conversion to bring the home side within touching distance. However, FNB WSU regained control when Tshayi grabbed his second try of the match. The successful tap and play restored breathing room for the visitors, extending the score for them. FNB CPUT continued to push until the final moments and were rewarded in the dying moments of the game when Noah Pekeur scored a late try, the tap and kick attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the final score at 34-22. Despite the loss, FNB CPUT's second-half fightback showed resilience, while FNB WSU's dominance in the first half proved decisive in securing the victory.   SCORERS   FNB CPUT : (0) 22 Tries : Yibanathi Daki, Jacquin Jacobus, Dwayne Atkins   FNB WSU : (24) 34 Tries : Sandisiwe Mkhwayimba X3, Lukhangele Tshayi.   FNB Player of the Match: Lukhangele Tshayi (FNB WSU) TEAMS FNB CPUT: Emihle Akho Benya; Lindisipho Lihle Kula; Kieran Delaan Naidoo; Ntsako Ashley Mhlanga; Abongile Kude Golela; Simphiwe Gift Thabede; Yibanathi Daki; Denley Krid Adams; Jayson January Reuben Thorne Noble; Samukelisiwe Sandile Madonsela; Mbuso Maseko; Jacquin Farrol Jacobus; Dwayne Grant Atkins; Noah Matthew Pekeur. FNB WSU:   Mihlali Nohoyeka; Mangaliso Zixesha; Yoyisa Mahobe; Luvo Zindela; Sandisiwe Mkwayimba; Siya Ncapayi; Khanaye Mbakaza; Sipho Hobosch; Thembela Folo; Isiphe Mbini; Asisipho Jim; Bulelani Nondlwana; Axola Mtalana; Ahlule Zokoza;  Lukhangele Tshayi.

Industrious FNB Madibaz hooker Kyle Erasmus is enjoying the fruits of his labour as he continues to impress in the FNB Varsity Shield rugby competition this year. The front-rower’s standout performance in the team’s hard-fought 40-32 victory over FNB WSU on Friday earned him the FNB Player that Rocks award.   He crossed the whitewash twice in that outing and said his current form was a result of achieving a level of dedication that allowed him to add value to the team.   “When you receive an award like that, you’re obviously very happy. But the key is just to focus on being consistent and leaving everything on the field,” he said after a practice session this week.   Erasmus credits the demands of his postgraduate studies in radiography for helping him cultivate the discipline required to grow on the field.   His contribution in Mandela University’s win in a match dominated by the forward packs was immense.   “We knew WSU would be a tough challenge because they have a big forward pack,” Erasmus, who himself weighs in at 108kg, explained.   “Our focus was to match them physically in the scrums and mauls but also to use our mobility to move them around.”   The squad were forced to find their mojo quickly after their opening-round defeat to FNB CPUT.   “Our aim was to put that loss behind us and take the competition game by game. You can’t get ahead of yourself,” he warned.   “It’s about enjoying the rugby and playing for each other, the university and the supporters.”   Focusing solely on the scoreboard added unnecessary pressure, he said.   The experienced Erasmus sees his role as one of leading by example.   “I want to bring leadership, physicality and determination. As a hooker, my job is to be technically sound in the scrums and lineouts and to be positive.   “If you do your job well, other players can feed off that momentum.”   Overcoming self-doubt is key to becoming a better player, which is why he has “worked a lot on my mentality”.   The little voice in your head saying you were not good enough was best answered by trusting the work you had put in, he said.   But, alas, rugby is a physical sport.   Here, too, Erasmus has set clear goals. Besides wanting to be “more physical”, he is working on adding a yard of pace and increasing his work rate to become more of a hybrid player.   He also makes sure his throw-ins are deadly accurate to help the team weaponise their lineouts.   “When you realise every moment could be the last in this chapter of your life, it makes you appreciate it more,” he said.   “I’m trying to stay present, enjoy the rugby and go all out every time I step onto the field.”   The game is all about navigating the ups and downs by controlling the controllables and maintaining belief.   “That’s how you get closer to your ultimate goal,” Erasmus said.   The Madibaz take on the unbeaten Wits in their next match on Friday. Madibaz Stadium in Gqeberha is the venue and kick-off is at 4pm.   By: Jesica Slabbert

It has been a difficult campaign so far for the University of Fort Hare Rugby Team in the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield season, with the side currently sitting at the bottom of the standings after a challenging start to the competition. The UFH Blues have lost four matches so far - three at home and one away - leaving them without points on the log. Despite the results, the team has shown moments of promise, particularly in their home clash against FNB UKZN Impi where they delivered one of their strongest performances of the season but were ultimately unlucky not to come away with a victory. With only three fixtures remaining, FNB UFH will be hoping to finish their campaign on a positive note. Two of those matches will be away from home, while their final home game will be against FNB CPUT. The road ahead will not be easy for the Blues. Their remaining opponents are teams pushing for a place in the next round of the competition, meaning UFH will have to raise their level if they hope to collect valuable points before the end of the season. Throughout the campaign, the Fort Hare side has continued to compete and give their best effort in every match, but they have struggled to find the consistency and rhythm needed to secure results. One of the most anticipated fixtures still to come will be their clash with long-time rivals Walter Sisulu University Rugby Team. Rivalry matches often carry a different intensity, where form and log positions sometimes matter less than pride and determination. When two rivals meet, the battle is often about restoring dignity and proving who wants the victory more. For UFH, that encounter could provide an opportunity to turn their season around and give supporters something to celebrate. Before that, however, the Blues face another tough assignment when they travel to take on Sol Plaatje University Rugby Team on Friday. The match presents another chance for UFH to try and collect their first points of the campaign. While it has undoubtedly been a frustrating season for the Fort Hare side, it has also been one filled with valuable lessons. With three games still to play, the Blues will be determined to keep fighting and finish the season with pride.   By: Thembela Tangana

Impressive FNB UKZN debutant, Frederick Malgas, has had a start to remember so far in his first FNB Varsity Shield season. The Impi inside centre has excelled from day one of the competition and has earned himself two FNB Player that Rocks accolades after his displays against FNB SPU and also against FNB UFH in Alice. Malgas has praised the FNB UKZN IMPI culture’s energy, mentioning how their big results have come from zooming into the finer details and execution. “The IMPI culture has been something new for me… being part of the team and experiencing the culture first hand is a different type of energy. More often, the talk is all about detail and execution.”  “The small detail makes a big difference come game day when the stakes are the highest. We always pay attention to detail and execution of what we've been working on for the past few months” said the 24-year-old Impi player. “The intensity at which you train and receive info is quite fast. So you have to be able to adapt on demand also with that, be able to deliver each week” he added. With previous experience in the FNB Varsity Cup Young Guns, Malgas has been oozing with confidence in his playing style, demonstrating the impact of how the FNB Varsity Cup brand as a whole, including Shield and Young Guns, contributes in building the next generation of rugby players in South Africa. “I count myself lucky to be where I am right now… I played at UP-Tuks for one year back in 2022. We won the Young Guns competition, only losing one group stage game to NWU; eventually winning against them in the final and we also won the Varsity Cup.” “The intensity of each training session was harder than the match itself because I was also part of the Varsity Cup squad and had to train with them every time. I was on the bench the opening game against FNB UCT Ikeys but never made my debut which made me believe I had the potential to play Varsity Cup” said the youngster born in Kraaifontein. With four matches into the season, IMPI have won two matches and lost the other two games. Frederick Malgas has backed his team’s preparations, emphasising the importance of recovery at this stage of the competition. “Our preparations for Shield started last year October, and we had camp since the 5th of January. The excitement and eagerness have been up there. But now, since we are deep in the competition, it's all about recovery and how we prepare for the next game”   By: Mpendulo Letsoalo