FNB Varsity Cup Nevaldo Fleurs on having to bide his time to play for the Maroon Machine and his approach to goal-kicking. How did the team feel after the hard-fought 40-31 win against FNB UWC at the Danie Craven Stadium? We were happy with the win, but not with our overall performance. HIGHLIGHTS: FNB Maties vs FNB UWC What’s the vibe in the team like ahead of Monday’s big semi-final against the FNB UCT Ikeys in Cape Town? We appreciate being able to play in the semi-finals and are really excited to get back on the field. You had to wait a while to get your chance to play for FNB Maties due to Covid-19 and the depth in the squad. How does it feel to be in the team and what advice would you give to a youngster in a similar situation? I feel blessed to be granted the opportunity to represent such a massive club. I didn't enjoy the wait, but I learned from the experience, and senior players like Adriaan van der Bank and David Brits taught me many things. I would advise any youngster to be a sponge and even when you do get your chance, keep on learning. What are your goals for this year, on and off the field? To keep on learning the dynamics of rugby and improving myself as a player. And to see Adriaan lift up the Varsity Cup trophy! Your goal-kicking has been superb this year. How do you ensure you stay on target? My kicking ability is a gift from God. I'm amazed and appreciative every time I kick a ball. I’m an overthinker. My friend and kicking buddy Curtis Gordon once told me: ‘All that matters is if the ball goes through the poles. How it happens is irrelevant.’ He also said that shooters shoot however they feel comfortable. What’s comfortable for me is if I don't think about any process, I just place the ball, don't stand for too long and just kick the ball. By Dorfling Terblanche

FNB Varsity Cup FNB UCT Ikeys fullback Duran Koevort on Monday’s FNB Varsity Cup semi-final against FNB Maties and his toughest opponent. Where are you from and how did you start playing rugby? I was born in Durban and when I was a baby we moved to Cape Town, which is where I grew up. I started watching rugby on TV at a young age with my father. I started playing rugby in Grade 1 and have loved the game ever since. How are the Ikey Tigers approaching Monday’s big semi-final against FNB Maties at UCT? Now that we’re into the semis we need to remain focused on what’s required of us and not let the occasion get to us. Is the team a bit nervous? Yes, but it's always good to be nervous. We’re also very excited about this opportunity. What’s like playing for FNB UCT and what would winning this year's FNB Varsity Cup mean to you? It’s amazing to play for UCT with the team culture we have and the values we stand for. Winning this year's Varsity Cup would be something special for all Ikey Tigers – players, management, executives and supporters. What’s your ultimate rugby goal? To go all the way and play for the Springboks. Who’s your biggest motivator? My mother motivates and inspires me the most on a day-to-day basis. Which rugby player do you look up to? Cheslin Kolbe. Who’s the toughest opponent you’ve faced? Stravino Jacobs, back in high school. The presence he had with ball in hand was like no other. What are you studying at UCT? A Bachelor of Social Science majoring in economics. I’m currently in my second year. Interview by Ayanda Frances Felem

FNB Varsity Cup FNB UP-Tuks flyhalf Walter Visser chats about the looming semi-finals as well as his dream to replicate Impi's success as a FNB Varsity Cup winner. It's your first FNB Varsity Cup season and already you've made a big impact. How would you describe the experience to date? As a team, we've had ups and downs throughout the season and at times we've been our worst enemies. That said, we have strived to stick to our plan and we know what we have to do. We showed that against UJ last week; we treated that game like a final. Personally, I feel that I have done well, although there is a lot of room for improvement. I didn't have my best game against Shimlas, but l will learn from every mistake and get better with each game. When did you start playing rugby? I'm originally from Pongola, a small town in the north of KwaZulu-Natal. I went to Pongola Academie and then Hoërskool Ermelo. I started playing rugby from the moment I could hold a ball. I played with my brothers, Impi [who went on to represent the Blitzboks] and Jan. They were older, but we played together and learned a lot from one another. Hoërskool Ermelo is a very small school and the games aren't broadcast on TV or anything like that, but we gave our all to the game. Where do you draw your inspiration from? My family. My father [Walter Snr] played a little bit of rugby, but he was more of a cricket guy and represented Tuks. My eldest brother Jan played as hooker and prop for Pukke [now the NWU Eagles] and the Leopards U21s. Of everyone, I'd say that Impi is my hero. I look up to him and ask him for a lot of advice about rugby. He also represented Tuks. What role has Impi played in your career? He's my mentor. He told me that I must keep my feet on the ground, that I must keep grinding no matter how good I am. I have to keep looking to see where I can better my game. It's good to have a brother in the system, but he's not going to get me into teams. That's up to me. Has he impacted other areas of your life? Impi has helped me find the right balance between my studies and my rugby. He did mechanical engineering and played rugby, so he knows how hard it is. It's especially difficult in the test week, where you write five tests in four days, and you're still training and playing games. It can cause a lot of stress, but you just need to keep your head down and keep going. FNB UP-Tuks are traveling back to FNB UFS Shimlas for the semis. What's the plan ahead of this do-or-die match? It's going to be a tough one. The last time we played them, we didn’t pitch up for the first 30 minutes of the game. We know what to expect from them. If you allow them to build momentum, they will run at you. We're going to do our homework in the coming days and come up with a good plan. We didn't manage the game well in the previous match and the weather also played a huge role. Hopefully this time around will be different. We need to focus on ourselves. It’s the playoffs and we have a title to defend. What will be key to your role as a flyhalf ahead of the semi-final? Shimlas play running rugby, their backs are good, especially their flyhalf [George Lourens] and the inside centre [Jooste Nel], they take good control of the game. Our kicking game will need to be accurate as we will need to play the game in the right areas. That's where we fell short the last time we faced them. When we get opportunities, we must put points on the board. ALSO READ: Cheetahs sign star FNB UFS Shimlas flyhalf What would winning the FNB Varsity Cup mean to you personally? I've dreamed of going to Tuks to play rugby and study since I was very young. My brother Impi lifted the trophy in 2017 and I really want to lift it this year. He told me that 2017 was the best season he's had in his rugby career. It's one of my dreams to win the tournament and I'm building towards it step by step. What are your rugby aspirations outside of the FNB Varsity Cup? I definitely want to try and make a career out of rugby. It's my dream and it's good to see that my brother is there already [with the Blitzboks]. Right now, I'm focused on giving my all in the Varsity Cup, to gain more experience, and getting my degree. What are you studying and why? I'm studying industrial engineering, just like my father. When I was young, I often went with him to work sites and he showed me how things are done. I like the aspect of improving business systems and improving productivity. Interview by Lehlogonolo Ditshego Main photo: Christiaan Kotze/Varsity Cup

FNB Varsity Cup FNB UFS Shimlas flyhalf George Lourens is one step closer to living his childhood dream after signing a contract with the Cheetahs. The 24-year-old backline marshal is one of three players from Shimlas on the Cheetahs' radar, and the first to put pen to paper. Lourens matriculated at Paarl Gymnasium and started his FNB Varsity Cup journey at FNB Maties, before making the move to Bloemfontein in order to play in the tournament for one more year. He has been a revelation at Shimlas and his contribution on the field has played a big role in the Free Staters securing a home semi-final against FNB UP-Tuks on Monday night. According to Cheetahs director of rugby Hawies Fourie, the attack-minded pivot has matured a lot since his days in Stellenbosch. When Lourens first started out at Maties he worked with Fourie, who was still the coach back then. While Lourens will no doubt be last in the pecking order behind the in-form Siya Masuku and Reinhardt Fortuin at the Cheetahs, he cannot ask for a better learning school thanks to Ruan Pienaar and Frans Steyn training or playing on either side of him. However, Lourens' attention remains firmly with FNB UFS Shimlas until the end of the current FNB Varsity Cup. 'I'm very happy to be joining the Cheetahs,' said Lourens. 'My focus will turn to the Cheetahs as soon as the Varsity Cup ends. We really want to win this Varsity Cup. On the Tuesday after the possible final, I will start focusing on the Cheetahs.' One thing is for sure, Lourens’ natural attacking brand of rugby and his sevens skills will see him slot in seamlessly at the Cheetahs. Monday night's eagerly anticipated semi-final between FNB UFS Shimlas and FNB UP-Tuks at Shimla Park will kick off at 19:00 (SuperSport channel 211). By Morgan Piek Photo: Hannes Naude/Varsity Cup

FNB Varsity Shield The team lineups for Thursday's much-anticipated FNB Varsity Shield semi-finals. FNB CPUT vs FNB UKZN IMPI (Thursday, 17:00, Davidson Rugby Field, SuperSport channel 207) FNB CPUT – 15 Caine Stadler, 14 Christopher Andrews, 13 Iwaan Bloys, 12 Philasande Ngcobo, 11 Keenan Williams, 10 Feghon-Leigh Snyders, 9 Duran Alexander, 8 Roland van der Heever, 7 Ché Klaasen, 6 Keanan Solomons, 5 Moegamat Toffar, 4 Joshua Paris, 3 Matthew Coenraad, 2 Siyasanga Ngubelanga (c), 1 Jacques-Lynn Josephus. Subs: 16 Duke Shasha, 17 Onika Mgijima, 18 Masivuye Mafenyana, 19 Lungelo Kubheka, 20 Leano Haupt, 21 Hugan Engelbrecht, 22 Keano Cookson, 23 Darren Alexander. FNB UKZN Impi – 15 Jarryd Nicholls, 14 Zamakuhle Zulu, 13 Singele Mkhize, 12 Gacula Poswa, 11 Devandre Adendorf, 10 Dawro Kock, 9 Johan Maritz (c), 8 Menzi Mabaso, 7 CJ Osode, 6 Sinamava Ntsinde, 5 Wilhelm Fenske, 4 Nhlakanipho Mathonsi, 3 Ulrich Walker, 2 Tristan Trollip, 1 Bambolunye Dlamini. Subs: 16 Qhawe Nxumalo, 17 Benjamin Maseko, 18 Muzomuhle Ncanana, 19 Tinotenda Mazhindu, 20 Sbongokuhle Ngubane, 21 Thando Cele, 22 Marcello Flemmer, 23 Khanya Kama. FNB UFH BLUES vs FNB WSU ALL BLACKS (Thursday, 19:15, Davidson Rugby Field, SuperSport channel 207) FNB UFH Blues – 15 Apiwe Sidloyi, 14 Mziyabulela Bathu, 13 Ryan Maree, 12 Migcobo Bovu, 11 Lilitha Mdladlana, 10 Keith Chiwara, 9 Lwazi Madiba, 8 Yamkela Mzozoyana, 7 Rodney Chikamhi, 6 Langalethu Susela, 5 Walter Moyo, 4 Ayabulela Xhosana, 3 Mnkani Sibabalo, 2 Kamvelihle Fatyela (c), 1 Edwin Nxumalo. Subs: 16 Bulela Magopeni, 17 Mesuli Nzima, 18 Mbasa Sonkosi, 19 Cinga Nqotyana, 20 Avuzwa Noko, 21 Merlin du Plessis, 22 Senanelo Ndlazi, 23 Liyema Tyali. FNB WSU All Blacks – 15 Tebogo Madigoe, 14 Sibusiso Hans, 13 Scelo Tole, 12 Thembani Kori, 11 Soyama Mini, 10 Lwandile Mapuko, 9 Lithemba Ngcetane, 8 Bubele Gongqa, 7 Uyathandwa Fana, 6 Ayabulela Zono, 5 Asekho Marubelela (c), 4 Miyelani Ngobeni, 3 Thembalihle Njadu, 2 Zanokuhle Nkabi, 1 Lindokuhle Seteni. Subs: 16 Ovayo Mhlonyane, 17 Anda Matshoba, 18 Dayton Berndt, 19 Kamva Tetani, 20 Khanya Solani, 21 Eric Mcaphukana, 22 Yamkela Nyembe, 23 Lisolethu Valisi. NOTE: Teams are supplied by the universities and are subject to change

FNB Varsity Cup VarsityCup.co.za selects the standout players from Monday’s matches. SAMPIE SWIEGERS (FNB NWU EAGLES) The Eagles were made to lament their inconsistent performances over the course of the season when they failed to qualify for the semi-finals. In the final league match against FNB Wits, however, Swiegers delivered an influential performance at the scrums and collisions – scoring two tries from close range. MATCHDAY WRAP: Tuks seal semi-final spot, UWC relegated BERNARD VAN DER LINDE (FNB UP-TUKS) The defending champions favoured a more tactical approach in the must-win clash against FNB UJ. Van der Linde was key to FNB UP-Tuks' drive for territory. While he starred with the boot, he was equally impressive with ball in hand, scoring an important try in the first half. SEAN SWART (FNB MATIES) Swart continues to devastate defences with his powerful drives from the back of the maul and around the fringes. The hooker scored two tries in the 40-31 win against FNB UWC on Monday. That brace boosted Swart’s tally for the season to nine. He is currently the leading try-scorer in the tournament. JOOSTE NEL (FNB UFS SHIMLAS) Shimlas romped to a 72-24 win over the FNB Madibaz. Nel, along with flyhalf George Lourens, has been integral to their attack in 2022, and had another big game in Gqerbeha. Fixtures, results and log IMAD KHAN (FNB UCT IKEYS) The Ikey Tigers overcame a poor start to claim an important victory against the FNB CUT Ixias. Replacement back Imad Khan produced yet another explosive cameo, scoring two tries at a crucial stage of the contest. Photos: Barco Greeff/Christiaan Kotze/Luigi Bennett/Ian Fairley/Zaahid Appoles/Varsity Cup

FNB Varsity Cup It’s do or die in the final round of the FNB Varsity Cup league stage with these Gauteng-based sides scrapping for the fourth semi-final spot. FNB UP-Tuks have to win the fixture at the University of Johannesburg on Monday to secure a place in the FNB Varsity Cup playoffs. Their chances of hosting a semi-final are slim – given that FNB UFS Shimlas (first on the log) and the FNB UCT Ikeys (second) are big favourites to win their respective matches. Destiny is still in their own hands, though, with regards to making the final four. FNB UJ are in a very different position. They will leapfrog FNB UP-Tuks in the standings if they win on Monday. They will, however, need FNB Wits to deny the FNB NWU Eagles a four-try bonus point – and possibly a win – to nail down a fourth-place finish. FNB UJ will improve their chances of qualifying if they claim a bonus-point win against FNB UP-Tuks. That may be easier said than done, though. WATCH: FNB Impact Player (Round 8) Nico Luus’ charges have blown hot and cold all season, yet they boast the best defensive record in the tournament. They’ve conceded just 153 points in eight games. FNB UJ have some momentum, having put 50 points past FNB UWC last week. FNB UP-Tuks, as the stats suggest, will be harder to breach. Jonathan Mokouena’s side showed that they have the ability to switch between a tactical and expansive approach. In the most recent match staged in Bellville, FNB UJ played a smart territory-based game, with flyhalf Jonathan Viljoen kicking them into good field positions. FNB UJ will be under a lot more pressure at the set pieces this week. FNB UP-Tuks boast a powerful maul, as well as several destructive ball-carriers. FNB UP-Tuks will be under pressure to convert more of their scoring chances into points. They rank fifth for points scored after eight games. They will need to be more clinical this Monday if they hope to advance to the playoffs and defend their FNB Varsity Cup title. FNB UJ vs FNB UP-Tuks (Monday, 17:00, UJ Stadium, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UJ – 15 Shaun Baxter, 14 Likhaya Tengimfene, 13 Musa Tshabalala, 12 Indiphile Tyeda, 11 Ilunga Mukendi, 10 Jonathan Viljoen, 9 Mpho Khubeka, 8 Kelvin Kanenungo (co-c), 7 Brendon Pawson, 6 Johannes Terblanche (co-c), 5 Philip Apea-Adu, 4 Babalo Makana, 3 Chergin Fillies, 2 Darnell Osuagwu, 1 Kayden Kiewit. Subs: 16 Elisha Kwitonga, 17 Andrew Siminyu, 18 Nkosikhona Masuku, 19 Thomas Ongera, 20 Siyemukela Ndlovu, 21 Buhle Qaba, 22 Gerath Louw, 23 Rowan Malgas. FNB UP-Tuks – 15 Clyde Lewis, 14 Kabelo Mokoena, 13 Zander Reynders, 12 Lincoln Daniels (c), 11 Tharquinn Manuel, 10 Walter Visser, 9 Bernard van der Linde, 8 Orateng Koikanyang, 7 Divan Venter, 6 Stephan Smit, 5 Roald Hattingh, 4 Mihlali Stamper, 3 Francois Klopper, 2 Werner Fourie, 1 André van der Merwe. Subs: 16 Allister Williams, 17 Henry Till, 18 Daniël Wessels, 19 Kabasele Nkombua, 20 Dian Schoonees, 21 Chad-Lee Valentine, 22 Stephan Coetzee, 23 Ambesa Zenzile. FNB Varsity Cup teams (Round 9) Fixtures, results and log 2021-22 combined log

FNB Varsity Cup It’s do or die in the final round of the FNB Varsity Cup league stage with these Gauteng-based sides scrapping for the fourth semi-final spot. FNB UP-Tuks have to win the fixture at the University of Johannesburg on Monday to secure a place in the FNB Varsity Cup playoffs. Their chances of hosting a semi-final are slim – given that FNB UFS Shimlas (first on the log) and the FNB UCT Ikeys (second) are big favourites to win their respective matches. Destiny is still in their own hands, though, with regards to making the final four. FNB UJ are in a very different position. They will leapfrog FNB UP-Tuks in the standings if they win on Monday. They will, however, need FNB Wits to deny the FNB NWU Eagles a four-try bonus point – and possibly a win – to nail down a fourth-place finish. FNB UJ will improve their chances of qualifying if they claim a bonus-point win against FNB UP-Tuks. That may be easier said than done, though. WATCH: FNB Impact Player (Round 8) Nico Luus’ charges have blown hot and cold all season, yet they boast the best defensive record in the tournament. They’ve conceded just 153 points in eight games. FNB UJ have some momentum, having put 50 points past FNB UWC last week. FNB UP-Tuks, as the stats suggest, will be harder to breach. Jonathan Mokouena’s side showed that they have the ability to switch between a tactical and expansive approach. In the most recent match staged in Bellville, FNB UJ played a smart territory-based game, with flyhalf Jonathan Viljoen kicking them into good field positions. FNB UJ will be under a lot more pressure at the set pieces this week. FNB UP-Tuks boast a powerful maul, as well as several destructive ball-carriers. FNB UP-Tuks will be under pressure to convert more of their scoring chances into points. They rank fifth for points scored after eight games. They will need to be more clinical this Monday if they hope to advance to the playoffs and defend their FNB Varsity Cup title. FNB UJ vs FNB UP-Tuks (Monday, 17:00, UJ Stadium, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UJ – 15 Shaun Baxter, 14 Likhaya Tengimfene, 13 Musa Tshabalala, 12 Indiphile Tyeda, 11 Ilunga Mukendi, 10 Jonathan Viljoen, 9 Mpho Khubeka, 8 Kelvin Kanenungo (co-c), 7 Brendon Pawson, 6 Johannes Terblanche (co-c), 5 Philip Apea-Adu, 4 Babalo Makana, 3 Chergin Fillies, 2 Darnell Osuagwu, 1 Kayden Kiewit. Subs: 16 Elisha Kwitonga, 17 Andrew Siminyu, 18 Nkosikhona Masuku, 19 Thomas Ongera, 20 Siyemukela Ndlovu, 21 Buhle Qaba, 22 Gerath Louw, 23 Rowan Malgas. FNB UP-Tuks – 15 Clyde Lewis, 14 Kabelo Mokoena, 13 Zander Reynders, 12 Lincoln Daniels (c), 11 Tharquinn Manuel, 10 Walter Visser, 9 Bernard van der Linde, 8 Orateng Koikanyang, 7 Divan Venter, 6 Stephan Smit, 5 Roald Hattingh, 4 Mihlali Stamper, 3 Francois Klopper, 2 Werner Fourie, 1 André van der Merwe. Subs: 16 Allister Williams, 17 Henry Till, 18 Daniël Wessels, 19 Kabasele Nkombua, 20 Dian Schoonees, 21 Chad-Lee Valentine, 22 Stephan Coetzee, 23 Ambesa Zenzile. FNB Varsity Cup teams (Round 9) Fixtures, results and log 2021-22 combined log

FNB Varsity Cup Watch the three non-televised FNB Varsity Cup matches LIVE on SuperSport Schools (19:00 kick-off). FNB Maties vs FNB UWC FNB Madibaz vs FNB UFS Shimlas FNB UCT Ikeys vs FNB CUT Ixias

FNB Varsity Cup The FNB Varsity Cup semi-final lineup has been confirmed with FNB UFS Shimlas set to host FNB UP-Tuks and the FNB UCT Ikeys pitted against rivals FNB Maties. Shimlas thrashed the FNB Madibaz on Monday to finish the league stage at the top of the FNB Varsity Cup standings. Meanwhile, the Ikey Tigers secured a home semi-final after downing the FNB CUT Ixias. FNB Maties rebounded after a poor start to edge FNB UWC and finish third on the log. Paul Treu’s side and the FNB Madibaz finished ninth and 10th respectively on the combined 2021-22 log and will be relegated to the FNB Varsity Shield as a result. FNB UP-Tuks secured the fourth playoff berth after claiming a bonus-point win against FNB UJ. While the FNB NWU Eagles picked up five log points from their fixture against FNB Wits, they finished one behind FNB UP-Tuks in the final standings. The first match of the day was fiercely contested by two desperate teams. FNB UP-Tuks produced a more clinical display to secure a 36-19 bonus-point win against FNB UJ. The defending champions adopted a pragmatic approach in the first half and took the points when they were on offer. By contrast, FNB UJ turned down several kickable penalties in search of four tries and ultimately a valuable bonus point. FNB UJ harnessed the power of their scrum in the second stanza. After building some momentum through the phases, hooker Darnell Osuagwu crashed over for his second try of the match. The visitors finished strongly, though, to claim the four-try bonus point and a place in the semi-finals. The result of the match at the University of Johannesburg all but dashed the FNB NWU Eagles’ hopes of qualifying for the playoffs. Andre Pretorius’ men beat FNB Wits 31-3, but that performance and result were to no avail. The hosts made good use of their massive pack in wet and challenging conditions. Captain Sampie Swiegers led the charge at the scrums, and with ball in hand – scoring two tries in the first half. The Eagles continued to apply the pressure in the second stanza and finished the game with a tally of five tries. While they did enough to claim the bonus point and to win by a substantial margin, they fell agonisingly short of playoff qualification. In Stellenbosch, FNB UWC gave FNB Maties a big fright before going down 40-31. Udubs made an impressive start to the match, with converted tries by flank Godfrey Muzanargwo and lock Jaen-Louis de Lange putting them 14-0 ahead after 13 minutes. But FNB Maties hit back with two maul tries from hooker Sean Swart, the leading try-scorer in this year’s tournament (nine). Centre Taigh Schoor and replacement Jurie Matthee then crossed the line to give the hosts a 26-14 half-time lead. However, FNB UWC fought back brilliantly after the break, with scrumhalf Conwill Conradie scoring a seven-point try and centre Aydon Topley a five-pointer. A conversion and penalty from captain Lyle Hendricks then put them 31-28 up after 61 minutes. But FNB Maties responded with another two tries, the last from replacement hooker Chris Rossouw with four minutes remaining. In Cape Town, the FNB UCT Ikeys secured a home semi-final with a hard-fought 34-24 win against the FNB CUT Ixias. The teams were locked at 5-5 at half-time, but the hosts dominated the second half to score another five tries. No 8 Taariq Kruger grabbed two from the back of the scrum, while replacement back Imad Khan struck twice within the space of three minutes in the final quarter. FNB CUT did well to dot down four times in the match, with captain Luvuyo Ndevu’s try in the last minute earning them a deserved bonus point. In Gqeberha, FNB UFS Shimlas secured top spot on the log with a 72-24 thrashing of the FNB Madibaz. The Free State students scored 10 tries, of which four were seven-pointers. Right wing Zane Bester finished off two of them, while flyhalf George Lourens slotted seven conversions. The FNB Madibaz scored four tries, but the final scoreline showed why they will be playing in the FNB Varsity Shield next season. Varsity Cup Round 9 results and scorers: FNB UJ 19 (7) – Tries: Darnell Osuagwu (2), Nkosikhona Masuku. Conversions: Jonathan Viljoen (2). FNB UP-Tuks 36 (15) – Tries: Zander Reynders, Bernard van der Linde, Stephan Smit, Francois Klopper, Mihali Stamper. Conversions: Stefan Coetzee (4). Penalty: Coetzee. FNB Player That Rocks: Bernard van der Linde (FNB UP-Tuks) FNB NWU Eagles 31 (19) – Tries: Sampie Swiegers (2), Theunis Pretorius, Tino Swanepoel (1x7), Pienaar van Niekerk. Conversions: Martin Venter (2).
 FNB Wits 3 (3) – Penalty: Chris Humphries. FNB Player That Rocks: Sampie Swiegers (FNB NWU Eagles) FNB Maties 40 (26) – Tries: Sean Swart (2), Taigh Schoor, Jurie Matthee, Juan Beukes, Chris Rossouw. Conversions: Nevaldo Fleurs (5). FNB UWC 31 (14) – Tries: Godfrey Muzanargwo, Jaen-Louis de Lange, Conwill Conradie (1x7), Aydon Topley. Conversions: Lyle Hendricks (3). Penalty: Hendricks. FNB Player That Rocks: Nevaldo Fleurs (FNB Maties) FNB Madibaz 24 (5) – Tries: Kyle Cyster, Arnouw Nel, Warwick Griffin, Brandt Fields. Conversions: Jade Stoffels (2). FNB UFS Shimlas 72 (42) – Tries: Melusi Mthabela, Wihan Marais (2), Kwezi Dlamini (1x7), Zane Bester (2x7), Ruwald van der Merwe (1x7), Thabo Ndimande, Luthando Buthelezi, Luyanda Mkhize. Conversions: George Lourens (7). FNB Player That Rocks: Jooste Nel (FNB UFS Shimlas) FNB UCT Ikeys 34 (5) – Tries: Taariq Kruger (2), Athi Gazi, Imad Khan (2), Suleiman Hartzenberg. Conversions: Khan (2). FNB CUT Ixias 24 (5) – Tries: Jan Kotze, Matthew Sekele, Septimus Derkese (1x7), Luvuyo Ndevu. Conversion: Floris Brand. FNB Player That Rocks: Sipho Dyonase (FNB UCT Ikeys) FNB Varsity Cup teams (Round 9) FNB Varsity Cup semi-finals (18 April): FNB UCT Ikeys vs FNB Maties (16:30, UCT Rugby Fields, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UFS Shimlas vs FNB UP-Tuks (19:00, Shimla Park, SuperSport channel 211) Fixtures, results and log 2021-22 combined log Photo: Christiaan Kotze/Luigi Bennett/Zaahid Appoles/Ian Fairley/Varsity Cup

FNB Varsity Cup The team lineups for the final round of the FNB Varsity Cup on Monday. ALSO READ: Big Game – FNB UJ vs FNB UP-Tuks FNB UJ vs FNB UP-Tuks (Monday, 17:00, UJ Stadium, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UJ – 15 Shaun Baxter, 14 Likhaya Tengimfene, 13 Musa Tshabalala, 12 Indiphile Tyeda, 11 Ilunga Mukendi, 10 Jonathan Viljoen, 9 Mpho Khubeka, 8 Kelvin Kanenungo (co-c), 7 Brendon Pawson, 6 Johannes Terblanche (co-c), 5 Philip Apea-Adu, 4 Babalo Makana, 3 Chergin Fillies, 2 Darnell Osuagwu, 1 Kayden Kiewit. Subs: 16 Elisha Kwitonga, 17 Andrew Siminyu, 18 Nkosikhona Masuku, 19 Thomas Ongera, 20 Siyemukela Ndlovu, 21 Buhle Qaba, 22 Gerath Louw, 23 Rowan Malgas. FNB UP-Tuks – 15 Clyde Lewis, 14 Kabelo Mokoena, 13 Zander Reynders, 12 Lincoln Daniels (c), 11 Tharquinn Manuel, 10 Walter Visser, 9 Bernard van der Linde, 8 Orateng Koikanyang, 7 Divan Venter, 6 Stephan Smit, 5 Roald Hattingh, 4 Mihlali Stamper, 3 Francois Klopper, 2 Werner Fourie, 1 André van der Merwe. Subs: 16 Allister Williams, 17 Henry Till, 18 Daniël Wessels, 19 Kabasele Nkombua, 20 Dian Schoonees, 21 Chad-Lee Valentine, 22 Stephan Coetzee, 23 Ambesa Zenzile. ALSO READ: 2022 FNB Varsity Cup semi-final permutations FNB NWU EAGLES vs FNB WITS (Monday, 19:00, Fanie du Toit Sports Ground, SuperSport channel 211) FNB NWU Eagles – 15 Heinrich Botha, 14 Pienaar van Niekerk, 13 Theunis Pretorius, 12 Isrome Phatudi, 11 Tino Swanepoel, 10 Martin Venter, 9 Sylvester Hassien, 8 André Fouché, 7 Kagiso Woodbridge, 6 Chris Vermaak, 5 Ruben Dreyer, 4 Marvelous Mashimbyi, 3 Sampie Swiegers, 2 Vernon Paulo, 1 Ruben du Plessis. Subs: 16 Chyle van Zyl, 17 Jason Jansen, 18 Xongani Ngobeni, 19 Wihan Nel, 20 Gustav Erlank, 21 Riaan Genis, 22 Nivan Petersen, 23 Keenan Twigg. FNB Wits – 15 Setshaba Mokoena, 14 Wian de Lange, 13 Siya Xulu, 12 Tiaan Schutte, 11 Thando Ngcelwane, 10 Chris Humphries, 9 Hlumelo Ndudula, 8 Cal Smid, 7 Lindo Ncusane, 6 Alex Skudder, 5 Junior White, 4 Kyle van Eyssen, 3 Ebot Buma (c), 2 Dameon Venter, 1 Jason Cloete. Subs: 16 Dagan Meuwese, 17 Prince Mulea, 18 Sibusiso Shongwe, 19 Anton Gerber, 20 Ziyanda Msipha, 21 Wernich Aucamp, 22 Keagan Lailvaux, 23 Gerswin Mouton. WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 8) FNB MATIES vs FNB UWC (Monday, 19:00, Danie Craven Stadium, SuperSport Schools App & YouTube channel) FNB Maties – 15 Nevaldo Fleurs, 14 Marcqiewn Titus, 13 Waqar Solaan, 12 Taigh Schoor, 11 Mike Mavovana, 10 Adriaan van der Bank (c), 9 Mckyle Volmoer, 8 Jesse Johnson, 7 Louw Nel, 6 Siyabonga Matanda, 5 Marco van Rhyn, 4 Juan Beukes, 3 James Combrinck, 2 Sean Swart, 1 Rhynardt Rijnsburger. Subs: 16 Chris Rossouw, 17 Gert Marais, 18 Vernon Matongo, 19 Matt Gray, 20 Gift Dlamini, 21 Jaco Nell, 22 Jurie Matthee, 23 Sibabalwe Xamlashe. FNB UWC – 15 Tiaan Henecke, 14 Will Vraagom, 13 Aydon Topley, 12 Lubelo Scott, 11 Tasriq Mynhardt, 10 Lyle Hendricks (c), 9 Conwill Conradie, 8 Romauld Ntumba, 7 Godfrey Muzanargwo, 6 Nicholas Chipanje, 5 Jaen-Louis de Lange, 4 Husayn Banzi, 3 Riaan van der Merwe, 2 Mauritz Swart, 1 Keanuh Michaels. Subs: 16 Bradman Grove, 17 Haniel du Toit, 18 Liam Tattersall, 19 Franco Ceasar, 20 Peter Williams, 21 Tandile Hoyi, 22 Andries Engelbrecht, 23 Ethan Diston. ALSO READ: FNB UFS Shimlas gun for top spot FNB MADIBAZ vs FNB UFS SHIMLAS (Monday, 19:00, Madibaz Stadium, SuperSport Schools App & YouTube channel) FNB Madibaz – 15 Kyle Cyster, 14 Brandt Fields, 13 Jade Stoffels, 12 Reese Cambier, 11 Eddie Kruger, 10 Siphosethu Dlongodlongo, 9 Anovuyo Moyikwa, 8 Leon van der Merwe, 7 Dylan Halgreen, 6 Arnouw Nel (c), 5 Terrance Siyaya, 4 Umna Tokwe, 3 Marco Nortje, 2 Kyle Erasmus, 1 Warwick Griffin. Subs: 16 Endinako Kuse, 17 Aqhamile Limba, 18 Likhona Dywili, 19 Mekyle Solomon, 20 Siphelo Sanyinyi, 21 Siyamthanda Jwacu, 22 Sibalomzi Mqeni, 23 Tlhalefo Moleko. FNB UFS Shimlas – 15 Cham Zondeki, 14 Zane Bester, 13 Janco Klinck, 12 Jooste Nel, 11 Luthando Buthelezi, 10 George Lourens, 9 Jandré Nel, 8 Ruwald van der Merwe, 7 Kwezi Dlamini, 6 Thabo Ndimande, 5 Nathan Jordan, 4 Renier Viljoen, 3 Blaine Golden, 2 Wihan Marais, 1 Melusi Mthabela. Subs: 16 William Moffat, 17 Loyiso Peteni, 18 Reinhardt Nel, 19 Ruben Cronje, 20 Thabang Malathsi, 21 Nicky Hatting, 22 Hlomla Payi, 23 Luyanda Mkhize. ALSO READ: Ikey Tigers flyhalf hails Fleck's influence FNB UCT IKEYS vs FNB CUT IXIAS (Monday, 19:00, UCT Rugby Fields, SuperSport Schools App & YouTube channel) FNB UCT Ikeys – 15 Kian Davis, 14 Athi Gazi, 13 Rihaz Fredericks, 12 Rethabile Louw, 11 Ntokozo Makhaza, 10 David Hayes, 9 William Rose, 8 Taariq Kruger, 7 Thomas Meyer, 6 Sipho Dyonase, 5 Mika Schubert, 4 Matthew Grobler, 3 Keagan Glade, 2 Alex Castle, 1 Luthando Woji (c). Subs: 16 Keagan Blanckenberg, 17 Lukhanyiso Bomela, 18 Alizwa Mngqeta, 19 Jason MacLeod Smith, 20 Matthew Hamilton, 21 Imad Khan, 22 Duran Koevort, 23 Suleiman Hartzenberg. FNB CUT Ixias – 15 David Cary, 14 Tiaan Venter, 13 Jandré de Beer, 12 Septimus Derkesen, 11 Jacquin van Wyk, 10 Floris Brand, 9 Xavier Swartbooi, 8 Ulrich Stander, 7 Luvuyo Ndevu (c), 6 Jan Kotze, 5 Kevin Strydom, 4 Matthew Sekele, 3 Sisipho Nofuya, 2 Tiaan Drotske, 1 De-Angelo Williams. Subs: 16 Nicolas du Buisson, 17 Tebogo Masemola, 18 Albertus Venter, 19 Andile Mfaswe, 20 Francois Bester, 21 Jakobus du Plessis, 22 Gian Bester, 23 Karabo Maqeba. NOTE: Teams are supplied by the universities and are subject to change FNB Varsity Cup 2021-22 combined log Fixtures, results and log

FNB Varsity Cup FNB UP-Tuks head coach Nico Luus speaks about his team's approach and mindset ahead of the do-or-die clash with FNB UJ on Monday night. FNB UP-Tuks sit in fourth place on the log with one round to play. Why do you find yourselves in this position? It’s been an up and down season. We have let ourselves down at times, and that’s why we find ourselves at fourth on the log. We haven't been consistent enough. How have injuries impacted your campaign? Ethan Burger got injured on Friday at gym before we went to play against Shimlas, so we were forced to make the change. Dian Schoonees came back from concussion a week before, and he did not play against Wits. That is why he started from the bench against Shimlas. Francois Klopper did not play the first three games and from there he played every minute. He is one of the best in South African rugby, and I think you don’t usually get a player like that, there are a lot of opportunities for him. You need a player like him, he is consistent, and he adds great value to the team. Injuries do ruin your plans, but you need to work with what you have. ALSO READ: 2022 FNB Varsity Cup semi-final permutations You've been forced to make a lot of changes in the backline this season. How do you think the backs have fared? I think [flyhalf] Walter Visser played well against Wits. He has been great all round and his runs have been good. Clyde Lewis and Kabelo Mokoena have played a lot of rugby for us. When 'Bok' [fullback Stephan Coetzee] got suspended we needed someone who was more experienced at fullback, and used Clyde and Kabelo there. Kabelo is usually a wing, so I've pushed him back into that position. Your thoughts on the captain Lincoln Daniels, who joined FNB UP-Tuks at the start of the season? He is a special player. I hope he goes a long way with his rugby career. WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 8) You're playing against FNB UJ on Monday, a much-hyped team coming off a big win. What are your thoughts ahead of that clash? We need to win on Monday night. If we don’t we are out of the competition. UJ have a good coach in Jonathan Mokuena and they have the momentum. It will be a difficult team to beat. Are you concerned about their speed? No. We need to do what we need to do, which is play for 80 minutes. I am comfortable with our game plan. There will be small battles for our backs throughout the game but we are going there to win. ALSO READ: FNB UFS Shimlas gun for top spot Are you still confident that you can defend your FNB Varsity Cup title? Definitely. We just need to win on Monday night and then we can look further because if we don’t, we are out. We will need a lot of concentration to win, and it would be better to win with a bonus point. We are not looking at any margins, we are looking at scoring four tries. It's in our hands. It's going to be difficult but we need to win this battle. FNB Varsity Cup 2021-22 combined log Fixtures, results and log Interview by Lehlogonolo Ditshego