FNB Varsity Shield Fullback Jano Roux has been the epitome of FNB Rhodes’ resilience in this year’s FNB Varsity Shield. The 19-year-old scored 22 of his team’s 32 points during the bumper weekend at CPUT in Bellville and was named the FNB Player That Rocks after their match against FNB UKZN. ‘I come from humble beginnings,’ says Roux, who is a BA Law student. ‘I grew up in Gelvandale in Gqeberha. ‘My mom, Felicia, is a single parent as my father passed away when I was just two years old. She is my hero and I owe everything I am and have today to her. She worked hard to send me to Grey Junior before I was fortunate enough to attend Kingswood High where my rugby took off. ‘I made the Eastern Province Academy team in 2019 and the following year I was in the EP Craven Week squad but then Covid struck and the tournament was cancelled. ‘Covid denied me and my peers many opportunities, but luckily, I could go to Rhodes where I can focus on academics as well as sport.’ Roux, who has three brothers, says he wants to be a role model. ‘My younger brother Cameron [6] is exactly like me. He also lost his dad when he was very young and to be honest, the reason why I’m doing all of this – studying and working hard – is to set a positive example for him and to be someone he can look up to. ‘It’s also really important for me to raise the bar and set a good standard for those who come after me.’ The diminutive Roux – he stands at 1.71m and weighs 77kg –only recently started kicking for posts again. ‘We haven’t really been scoring tries so I've worked very hard on my goal-kicking over the past two weeks. I see it as an opportunity to keep the scoreboard ticking over and hopefully if I’m accurate off the kicking tee, we will give ourselves more chances at winning games.’ FNB Rhodes will need to win or draw their last game of the 2022 campaign against the FNB TUT Vikings in Pretoria on Friday – depending on the result of the earlier match between FNB DUT and FNB UFH – to avoid being relegated from the FNB Varsity Shield. The match at TUT Stadium will kick off at 17:00. FNB Varsity Shield 2021-22 combined log Interview by Shafiek Mouton Photo: Luigi Bennett/ASEM Engage

FNB Varsity Cup VarsityCup.co.za selects the standout players from Monday's matches. JONATHAN VILJOEN (FNB UJ) The powerfully built flyhalf with the monster boot was key in FNB UJ’s 50-28 victory against FNB UWC on Monday. Viljoen capitalised on the platform provided by his forwards, putting his backs into space and kicking the ball deep into opposition territory. He was successful with six of his seven attempts at goal. MATCHDAY WRAP: Shimlas trounce Tuks, UJ safe from relegation THABO NDIMANDE (FNB UFS SHIMLAS) The openside flank's impact at the breakdowns has enhanced the Shimlas attack and allowed them to play at a lively tempo. Ndimande made several big contributions in the win against FNB UP-Tuks. His ability to contest and win the ball at the ruck also disrupted the visitors when they were in possession. Ndimande emerged from a crucial victory with yet another FNB Player That Rocks accolade. MARQIEWN TITUS (FNB MATIES) Titus has proved a lethal finisher for FNB Maties and looks to be in good touch with the playoffs approaching. The winger scored a hat-trick in his team’s emphatic 61-21 win over the FNB Madibaz. ANDRÉ FOUCHÉ (FNB NWU EAGLES) Fouché has been a powerhouse for the Eagles in 2022 and delivered a particularly important performance in the must-win match against the FNB CUT Ixias on Monday. The hosts led for much of the game in Bloemfontein, but a late surge by the Eagles, and a try by their talisman, boosted them to a 33-14 bonus-point victory. DAVID HAYES (FNB UCT IKEYS) The FNB UCT Ikeys have been up there with FNB UFS Shimlas in terms of attacking play this season, and their flyhalf has been instrumental to their success whether calling the shots in structured play or on the counter-attack. Hayes was the standout yet again in the 47-23 win against FNB Wits – and the Ikey Tigers look to be on track for a home semi-final. Fixtures, results and log Photos: Nasief Manie/Hannes Naude/Van Zyl Naude/Luigi Bennett/Dominic Barnardt/ASEM Engage

FNB Varsity Cup FNB UFS Shimlas fought hard to claim a 26-15 bonus-point win against FNB UP-Tuks and consolidate their position at the top of the FNB Varsity Cup log. The heavy rain in Bloemfontein on Monday took its toll on the pitch and many feared that the conditions might inhibit the hosts’ attacking ambitions. Those fears proved unfounded, though, when Shimlas took the fight to the highly-rated Tuks pack and then unleashed their dangerous backs to score three tries inside 35 minutes. The players left the field for a brief period due to lightning in the area. When the teams returned, FNB UFS Shimlas struggled to regain the initiative. The visitors hit back in the second half via two well-executed mauls. Stefan Coetzee’s conversion brought FNB UP-Tuks within four points of the hosts with nine minutes left on the clock. The hosts had the final say, though, scoring in the last minute to secure the four-try bonus point and an important win. With one round to play, FNB UFS Shimlas are well placed to top the FNB Varsity Cup log. By contrast, FNB UP-Tuks – who claimed no log points from the fixture in Bloem – may need a win against FNB UJ next week to advance to the semi-finals. In Bellville, FNB UJ powered their way to a 50-28 bonus-point win against FNB UWC to move clear of the relegation zone. The Orange Army can breathe easier having secured their place in next year’s FNB Varsity Cup. What’s more, the big win against FNB UWC has kept them in the hunt for a spot in the 2022 playoffs – although they will need to win their next match and hope that other results go their way. FNB UWC will lament their poor performance in this must-win fixture. They failed to meet the challenge of the FNB UJ forwards at the gainline and lost the territorial battle. The hosts conceded a series of penalties in their own half and flank Godfrey Muzanargwo was shown two yellow cards – and ultimately a red – before the end of the first stanza. FNB UJ used their maul and the big kicking boot of Jonathan Viljoen to devastating effect. They went to the break with a 31-14 lead and with the four-try bonus point in the bag. The visitors maintained the pressure after the break. The attack racked up 50 points, but the defence could not stop FNB UWC from claiming a bonus point for four or more tries. FNB UWC will face FNB Maties next week. They will need a bonus-point win at the Danie Craven Stadium, and they will need other results to go their way, in order to avoid relegation to the FNB Varsity Shield. In Stellenbosch, winger Marcqiewn Titus scored a hat-trick as FNB Maties thrashed the already-relegated FNB Madibaz 61-21. The hosts scored eight tries in total, with flyhalf Jurie Matthee and replacement loose forward Siya Matanda each grabbing a brace. Matthee also kicked seven conversions and a penalty goal to finish with a 27-point haul and the FNB Player That Rocks award. The FNB NWU Eagles scored two late tries to beat a gutsy FNB CUT Ixias team 33-14 in Bloemfontein. With rain pouring down throughout the match, both sides played within themselves while making good use of their forwards. The hosts took a 14-7 lead late in the first half thanks to two driving maul tries that saw their backs rush in to help the forwards get over the line. But the Eagles, who opened the scoring with a maul try from lock Marvelous Mashimbyi, hit back just before the break when winger Tino Swanepoel scored from a kick-pass. Replacement fullback Heinrich Botha finished off a backline move at the end of the third quarter, before replacement scrumhalf Riaan Genis and No 8 André Fouché struck late to secure a bonus-point win that keeps the Eagles’ semi-final hopes alive. In Johannesburg, the FNB UCT Ikeys boosted their hopes of hosting a semi-final with a 47-23 win against FNB Wits. The visitors led 14-0 after 20 minutes thanks to tries by centre Suleiman Hartzenberg (point-of-origin) and hooker Keagan Blanckenberg, before the hosts hit back with two converted tries that levelled the scores. But FNB UCT crossed the line again in first-half stoppage time through lock Reynhardt Crous and went on to dominate the second half, scoring another four tries. FNB Wits didn’t help their cause by having two players – flank Alexander Skudder and lock Edward White – yellow carded within 10 minutes of each other. Varsity Cup Round 8 results and scorers: FNB UWC 28 (14) – Tries: Mauritz Swart, Will Vraagom (1x7), Justin Theys, Peter Williams (1x7). Conversions: Lyle Hendricks (2).
 FNB UJ 50 (24) – Tries: Keegan Joubert., Darnell Osuagwu (2), Musawenkosi Tshabalala, Chergin Fillies, Shaun-Christian Baxter, Kelvin Kanenungo. Conversions: Jonathan Viljoen (6). Penalty: Viljoen. FNB Player That Rocks: Musawenkosi Tshabalala, (FNB UJ) FNB UFS Shimlas 26 (19) – Tries: Jooste Nel, Ruwald van der Merwe, Litha Nkula, Nqobani Dlamini. Conversions: Nkula (3).
 FNB UP-Tuks 15 (3) – Tries: Mihlali Stamper, Allister Williams. Conversion: Stefan Coetzee. Penalty: Walter Visser. FNB Player That Rocks: Thabo Ndimande (FNB UFS Shimlas) FNB Maties 61 (31) – Tries: Marcqiewn Titus (2x7, 1x5), Chris Rossouw, Jurie Matthee (2), Siya Matanda (2). Conversions: Matthee (7). Penalty: Matthee. FNB Madibaz 21 (7) – Tries: Arnouw Nel, Anovuyo Moyikwa, Jade Stoffels. Conversions: Sibalomzi Mqeni, Kholiowe Khonza (2). FNB Player That Rocks: Jurie Matthee (FNB Maties) FNB CUT Ixias 14 (14) – Tries: Tiaan Drotske, Septimus Derkesen. Conversions: Floris Brand (2). FNB NWU Eagles 33 (12) – Tries: Marvelous Mashimbyi, Tino Swanepoel, Heinrich Botha, Riaan Genis, André Fouché. Conversions: Martin Venter (4). FNB Player That Rocks: André Fouché (FNB NWU Eagles) FNB Wits 23 (14) – Tries: Dameon Venter, Luhle Matyolweni, Ebot Buma (1x7). Conversions: Chris Humphries (3). FNB UCT Ikeys 47 (19) – Tries: Suleiman Hartzenberg (1x7), Keagan Blanckenberg, Reynhardt Crous, Ntokozo Makhaza, Duran Koevort, Thomas Meyer, Jason MacLeod Smith (1x7). Conversions: Koevort (2), Kyle Bowman (2). FNB Player That Rocks: David Hayes (FNB UCT Ikeys) FNB Varsity Cup teams (Round 8) FNB Varsity Cup Round 9 fixtures (11 April): FNB UJ vs FNB UP-Tuks (17:00, UJ Stadium, SuperSport channel 211) FNB NWU Eagles vs FNB Wits (19:00, Fanie du Toit Sports Ground, SuperSport channel 211) FNB Maties vs FNB UWC (19:00, Danie Craven Stadium, SuperSport Schools App) FNB Madibaz vs FNB UFS Shimlas (19:00, Madibaz Stadium, SuperSport Schools App) FNB UCT Ikeys vs FNB CUT Ixias (19:00, UCT Rugby Fields, SuperSport Schools App) Fixtures, results and log Photos: Hannes Naude/Nasief Manie/Luigi Bennett/Van Zyl Naude/Dominic Barnardt/ASEM Engage

FNB Varsity Shield VarsityCup.co.za selects the standout players from the weekend’s matches in Cape Town. KAMVELIHLE FATYELA (FNB UFH BLUES) The Blues made a statement when they beat FNB CPUT 16-14 in Cape Town on Friday. The likes of centre Migcobo Bovu and flank Lukhanyiso Toshlwana produced outstanding performances, but in many respects, the Fort Hare skipper led from the front. Fatyela was part of the all-star FNB UFH front row that won the important scrum battle, and delivered a typically robust performance at the breakdowns. ALSO READ: Fort Hare dedicate famous win to Elliot Fana CHÉ KLAASEN (FNB CPUT) While the reigning champions lost big matches against FNB UFH and the FNB UKZN Impi, their back row certainly made an impression at the collisions and breakdowns. Klaasen put in some massive hits in both fixtures and showed excellent awareness to gather a bouncing ball and score against the Impi. DEVANDRE ADENDORF (FNB UKZN IMPI) The Impi were on the ropes in the fixture against FNB Rhodes before Adendorff received the ball in space and accelerated away to score the first of his two tries. His excellent defence came to the fore in the big match-up against FNB CPUT, where he made a try-saving tackle in the first half. LITHEMBA NGCETANE (FNB WSU ALL BLACKS) The All Blacks delivered a more consistent showing across the double-header in Cape Town, and both of their halfbacks were particularly potent on attack. Ngcetane proved a devastating runner when striking from the back of FNB WSU's set piece. The scrumhalf scored a hat-trick in the 48-11 win against FNB Rhodes. MATCHDAY WRAP: DUT stun TUT, UKZN shock CPUT ALBERTH KAPENDA (FNB DUT) The FNB DUT forwards delivered a performance for the ages in the monumental win against the FNB TUT Vikings on Sunday. Kapenda scored an important try for the students from Durban and made some valuable contributions around the park. Fixtures, results and log Photos: Luigi Bennett/Christiaan Kotze/ASEM Engage

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

FNB Varsity Cup The FNB Varsity Cup relegation battle will come to a head when FNB UWC host FNB UJ on Monday. We’ve reached the business end of the FNB Varsity Cup, and seven of the 10 teams remain in the hunt for a place in the playoffs. At the other end of the scale, as many as five sides are still in the relegation picture. The FNB Madibaz will be relegated to the FNB Varsity Shield at the end of the current season, as they have accumulated the fewest points over the past two years and are ranked last on the combined 2021-22 log. It remains to be seen which of FNB UWC, FNB CUT Ixias, FNB UJ, or FNB Wits will join them in taking the drop. AVOIDING RELEGATION: What FNB Varsity Cup teams need to do FNB UJ will be going all out to secure their place in the top flight when they tackle FNB UWC in Cape Town on Monday. While Jonathan Mokeuna’s team is still in the hunt for a place in the FNB Varsity Cup semi-finals, winning this match – and remaining in the elite tournament – should be their priority. It will be interesting to see how the importance of the fixture shapes the tactics of both teams. Risks will be kept to a minimum as both teams attempt to secure the victory and a valuable four log points. ROAD TO THE PLAYOFFS: What top teams need to qualify Can FNB UWC exploit the local conditions? Many of the fixtures staged at UWC this season have been impacted by strong winds in the area. If they can harness that wind to their advantage, and maintain their intensity for 80 minutes, they will put themselves in a position to upset the more-fancied side from Johannesburg. FNB UJ will be aiming for a strong start. If they manage to build a substantial lead in the first half, they may be in a position to push for a four-try bonus point later in the game. That bonus point will boost their bid for a place in the playoffs. FNB UWC must remain competitive for the duration of the fixture. A loss by seven points or fewer will earn them a losing bonus point, and keep their slim hopes of remaining in the FNB Varsity Cup alive. Those hopes, however, will hinge on other results over the course of rounds eight and nine going their way. FNB UWC vs FNB UJ (Monday, 17:00, UWC Stadium, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UWC – 15 Gilroy Lee Philander, 14 Tasriq Mynhardt, 13 Aydon Topley, 12 Lubelo Scott, 11 Will Vraagom, 10 Lyle Hendricks (c), 9 Conwill Conradie, 8 Romauld Ntumba, 7 Godfrey Muzanargwo, 6 Nicholas Chipanje, 5 Jaen-Louis de Lange, 4 Liam Tattersal, 3 Riaan van der Merwe, 2 Mauritz Swart, 1 Haniel du Toit. Subs: 16 Marshaleno Valensky, 17 Keanuh Michaels, 18 Andries Engelbrecht, 19 Asive Mjoli, 21 Peter Williams, 22 Tandile Hoyi, 23 Justin Theys, 24 Johannes van Biljon. FNB UJ – 15 Shaun-Christian Baxter, 14 Likhaya Tengimfene, 13 Musawenkosi Tshabalala, 12 Indiphile Tyeda, 11 Ilunga Mukendi, 10 Jonathan Viljoen, 9 Keegan Joubert, 8 Buhlebenkosi Qaba, 7 CJ Masuku, 6 Kelvin Kanenungo (c), 5 Brendon Pawson, 4 Philip Apea-Adu, 3 Chergin Fillies, 2 Darnell Osuagwu, 1 Kayden Kiewit. Subs: 16 Elizee Kwitonda, 17 Andrew Siminyu, 18 Ntokozo Hlophe, 19 Babalo Makana, 20 Connor van Buuren, 21 Mpho Kubheka, 22 Ruben Liebenberg, 23 Rowan Malgas. FNB Varsity Cup teams (Round 8) FNB Varsity Cup 2021-22 combined log

FNB Varsity Cup The team lineups for the eighth round of the FNB Varsity Cup on Monday. FNB UWC vs FNB UJ (Monday, 17:00, UWC Stadium, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UWC – 15 Gilroy Lee Philander, 14 Tasriq Mynhardt, 13 Aydon Topley, 12 Lubelo Scott, 11 Will Vraagom, 10 Lyle Hendricks (c), 9 Conwill Conradie, 8 Romauld Ntumba, 7 Godfrey Muzanargwo, 6 Nicholas Chipanje, 5 Jaen-Louis de Lange, 4 Liam Tattersal, 3 Riaan van der Merwe, 2 Mauritz Swart, 1 Haniel du Toit. Subs: 16 Marshaleno Valensky, 17 Keanuh Michaels, 18 Andries Engelbrecht, 19 Asive Mjoli, 21 Peter Williams, 22 Tandile Hoyi, 23 Justin Theys, 24 Johannes van Biljon. FNB UJ – 15 Shaun-Christian Baxter, 14 Likhaya Tengimfene, 13 Musawenkosi Tshabalala, 12 Indiphile Tyeda, 11 Ilunga Mukendi, 10 Jonathan Viljoen, 9 Keegan Joubert, 8 Buhlebenkosi Qaba, 7 CJ Masuku, 6 Kelvin Kanenungo (c), 5 Brendon Pawson, 4 Philip Apea-Adu, 3 Chergin Fillies, 2 Darnell Osuagwu, 1 Kayden Kiewit. Subs: 16 Elizee Kwitonda, 17 Andrew Siminyu, 18 Ntokozo Hlophe, 19 Babalo Makana, 20 Connor van Buuren, 21 Mpho Kubheka, 22 Ruben Liebenberg, 23 Rowan Malgas. AVOIDING RELEGATION: What FNB Varsity Cup teams need to do FNB UFS SHIMLAS vs FNB UP-TUKS (Monday, 19:00, Shimla Park, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UFS Shimlas – 15 Litha Nkula, 14 Zane Bester, 13 Janco van Heyningen, 12 Jooste Nel, 11 Asanda Kunene, 10 George Lourens, 9 Chadd Adams, 8 Ruwald van der Merwe, 7 Lourens Oosthuizen, 6 Thabo Ndimande, 5 Thabang Mahlasi (c), 4 Pierre Uys, 3 Blaine Golden, 2 Carl Wijburg, 1 Melusi Mthabela. Subs: 16 Wihan Marais, 17 Loyiso Peteni, 18 Reinhardt Nel, 19 Reinier Viljoen, 20 Nathan Jordan, 21 Jandré Nel, 22 Kwezi Dlamini, 23 Cham Zondeki. 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. ROAD TO PLAYOFFS: What FNB Varsity Cup teams need to qualify FNB MATIES vs FNB MADIBAZ (Monday, 19:00, Danie Craven Stadium, SuperSport Schools App & YouTube channel) FNB Maties – 15 Sibabalwe Xamlashe, 14 Marcqiewn Titus, 13 Anton du Toit, 12 Taigh Schoor, 11 Mike Mavovana, 10 Jurie Matthee, 9 Mckyle Volmoer, 8 Jesse Johnson, 7 De Wet Marais, 6 Gift Dlamini (c), 5 Marco van Rhyn, 4 Matthew Gray, 3 Friedrich Weilbach, 2 Chris Rossouw, 1 Vernon Matongo. Subs: 16 Francois Breytenbach, 17 Rhynardt Rijnsburger, 18 Gert Marais, 19 Rhys Fulford, 20 Siyabonga Matanda, 21 Eduan Smit, 22 Waqar Solaan, 23 Navaldo Fleurs. FNB Madibaz – 15 Kyle Cyster, 14 Jade Stoffels, 13 Reese Cambier, 12 Troy Delport, 11 Khakalethu Bophi, 10 Sibalomzi Mqeni, 9 Wayne Moss, 8 Siyamthanda Jwacu, 7 Leon van der Merwe, 6 Arnouw Nel (c), 5 Dylan Halgreen, 4 Umna Tokwe, 3 Marco Nortje, 2 Ruan Jonker, 1 Warwick Griffin. Subs: 16 Kyle Erasmus, 17 Aqhamile Limba, 18 Endinako Kuse, 19 Terrance Siyaya, 20 Mekyle Solomon, 21 Anovuyo Moyikwa, 22 Brandt Fields, 23 Kholiowe Khonza. WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 7) FNB CUT IXIAS vs FNB NWU EAGLES (Monday, 19:00, CUT Rugby Stadium, SuperSport Schools App & YouTube channel) FNB CUT Ixias – 15 David Cary, 14, Christiaan Venter, 13 Jandre 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 Albertus Venter. Subs: 16, Nicolas Du Buisson 17, Tebogo Masemola 18 De Angelo Williams, 19 Andile Mfaswe, 20 Francois Bester, 21 Jakobus du Plessis, 22 Gian Bester , 23 Karabo Maqeba. FNB NWU Eagles – 15 Pienaar van Niekerk, 14 Keenan Twigg, 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 (c), 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 Heinrich Botha. FNB Varsity Cup 2021-22 combined log FNB WITS vs FNB UCT IKEYS (Monday, 19:00, Wits Rugby Stadium, SuperSport Schools App & YouTube channel) FNB Wits – 15 Setshaba Mokoena, 14 Wian de Lange, 13 Luhle Matyolweni, 12 Tiaan Schutte, 11 Azi Afrika, 10 Chris Humphries, 9 Hlumelo Ndudula, 8 Cal Smid, 7 Lindokuhle Ncusane, 6 Alexander Skudder, 5 Edward White, 4 Kyle van Eyssen, 3 Ebot Buma (c), 2 Dameon Venter, 1 Jason Cloete. Subs: 16 Dagan Meuwese, 17 Prince Mulea, 18 Franco Groenewald, 19 Franz Gerber, 20 Ziyanda Msipha, 21 Wernich Aucamp, 22 Keagan Lailvaux, 23 Siyabonga Xulu. FNB UCT Ikeys – 15 Duran Koevort, 14 Rihaz Fredericks, 13 Suleiman Hartzenberg, 12 Rethabile Louw, 11 Ntokozo Makhaza, 10 David Hayes, 9 Imad Khan, 8 Jason MacLeod Smith, 7 Thomas Meyer, 6 Siphumezo Dyonase, 5 Mika Schubert, 4 Reynhardt Crous, 3 Keagan Glade, 2 Keagan Blanckenberg, 1 Luthando Woji (c). Subs: 16 Alex Castle, 17 Lukhanyiso Bomela, 18 Alizwa Mngqeta, 19 Callum Whitson, 20 Matthew Hamilton, 21 Kyle Bowman, 22 Kian Davis, 23 Ruben Labuschagne. WATCH: FNB Impact Player (Round 7) NOTE: Teams are supplied by the universities and are subject to change

FNB Varsity Shield The team lineups for the sixth round of the FNB Varsity Shield on Sunday. FNB RHODES vs FNB WSU ALL BLACKS (Sunday, 15:00, CPUT Sports Stadium, SuperSport channel 207) FNB Rhodes – 15 Jano Roux, 14 Matthew Royle, 13 Simelela Mbanzi (c), 12 Tinashe Famba, 11 Cameron Marais, 10 Liam Agnew, 9 Nkosinathi Mvelase, 8 Lathi-Tha Jodwana, 7 Ongeziwe Shumi, 6 Bradley van Heerden, 5 Daniel Dillon, 4 Xhanti Stofile, 24 Athenkosi Nkewana, 2 Uzuqaqambe Nyanda, 1 Lwazi Mzamane. Subs: 16 Curt Vermaak, 17 Katlego Petje, 18 TC Manana, 19 Conor Rogers, 20 Nicholas Dettmer, 21 Qawe Mzawuziwa, 22 Simamkele Ngantweni, 23 Siyolise Mabodla. FNB WSU All Blacks – 15 Lisolethu Valisi, 14 Sibusiso Hans, 13 Thembani Kori, 12 Asivile Ngcawe, 11 Soyama Mini, 10 Lwandile Mapuko, 9 Lithemba Ngcetane, 8 Uyathandwa Fana, 7 Ayabulela Zono, 6 Lihle Mbuqu, 5 Asekho Marubelela (c), 4 Miyelani Ngobeni, 3 Dale Titus, 2 Bubele Gongqa, 1 Anda Matshoba. Subs: 16 Zanokuhle Nkabi, 17 Lindokuhle Seteni, 18 Dayton Berndt, 19 Kamva Tetani, 20 Yamkela Nyembe, 21 Eric Mcaphukana, 22 Tebogo Madigoe, 23 Sikho Gaushe. WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Rounds 3 & 4) FNB DUT vs FNB TUT VIKINGS (Sunday, 17:00, CPUT Sports Stadium, SuperSport channel 207) FNB DUT – 15 Noah Pekeur, 14 Simtembile Mazwi, 13 Mthokozisi Hlatshwayo, 12 Ndumiso Dludla, 11 Prince Sokhela, 10 Minenhle Siwela, 9 Ian de Fouw, 8 Menzi Nxumalo, 7 Willem Bezuidenhout, 6 Malusi Mkhize, 5 Katambwa Mulumba (c), 4 Alberth Kapenda, 3 Siyabonga Mzolo, 2 Siyanda Mthembu, 1 Mpumelelo Xego. Subs: 16 Menzi Myeni, 17 Pernel Ngubo, 18 Malcom Manhanga, 19 Alethwa Buthelezi, 20 Thabani Mnisi, 21 Siyanqoba Zuma, 22 Giovanni Makaleni, 23 Langelihle Ntombela. FNB TUT Vikings – 15 Sakhille Vusame, 14 Wandile Shabala, 13 Malcolm Langa, 12 Musawenkosi Sili, 11 Damon Sinuka, 10 Mauritz Maritz, 9 Michael Jacobs, 8 Laro Delport (c), 7 Lutho Tom, 6 Ayabonga Ngcingolo, 5 Hercules Minnaar, 4 Kazadi Mukendi, 3 Goabaona Mokone, 2 Humbulani Kwinda, 1 Lawrence Nong. Subs: 16 Thapelo Mokoa, 17 Mxolisi Nzama, 18 Luthendo Netshlozwi, 19 Thato Mopedi, 20 Vuyani Vanqa, 21 Luke van Aardt, 22 Nathan Badenhorst, 23 Buhlebuyeza Ndunakazi. ALSO READ: Fort Hare dedicate famous win to Elliot Fana FNB CPUT vs FNB UKZN IMPI (Sunday, 19:00, CPUT Sports Stadium, SuperSport channel 207) FNB CPUT – 15 Caine Stadler, 14 Christopher Andrews, 13 Iwaan Bloys, 12 Philasande Ngcobo, 11 Linton Maritz, 10 Feghon-Leigh Snyders, 9 Hugan Engelbrecht, 8 Eely Pieters, 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 Roland van der Heever, 21 Duran Alexander, 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 Thobani Shangase. Fixtures, results and logs NOTE: Teams are supplied by the universities and are subject to change

FNB Varsity Shield FNB DUT claimed a crucial 15-12 win against the FNB TUT Vikings in round six of the FNB Varsity Shield on Sunday to improve their chances of avoiding relegation. FNB DUT battled bravely in an error-strewn match at CPUT Sports Stadium and held an 8-7 lead moments before half-time. The Vikings crossed the line before the hooter, however, to take a 12-7 advantage into the break. FNB DUT flyhalf Minenhle Siwela converted his own try in the 67th minute to steer his team into a powerful position in the closing stages. Siwela missed two penalty attempts thereafter. The FNB DUT defence did enough, though, to repel a final surge by the Vikings and secure what could be a campaign-defining victory. The result sees FNB DUT moving two log points ahead of FNB Rhodes on the combined 2021-22 log with one round to play. In another upset, winger Zamakuhle Zulu scored a late try as the FNB UKZN Impi beat FNB CPUT 20-18 to finish the weekend at the top of the FNB Varsity Shield standings. The Impi were the more physical and accurate side over the course of the first half. Their scrum put the hosts under pressure and their big men won the battle at the gainline. FNB CPUT stayed in touch via the reliable kicking boot of flyhalf Feghorn-Leigh Snyders. The score was 10-6 to the Impi at half-time. An improved showing at the collisions and breakdowns allowed the hosts to claw their way back into the contest. As the end of the game approached, they were in a strong position to claim an important victory. FNB UKZN showed superior intensity and composure at the death, though. A sweeping move was expertly finished by Zulu and Jarryd Nicholls’ conversion gave the visitors a narrow win. The reigning champions will be disappointed with their performances over the course of their home leg. After losing big games against the FNB UFH Blues and FNB UKZN, they will be hard-pressed to secure home advantage for the semi-finals. The Impi are well placed to finish in the top two. They currently sit at the top of the standings, but – having completed all their league matches – they may be overtaken by the Blues in the final round. In the first match of the day, the FNB WSU All Blacks booked their semi-final spot with a 48-11 win against FNB Rhodes. It took the All Blacks 33 minutes to secure the try-scoring bonus point when fullback Lisolethu Valisi, who won the FNB Player That Rocks award, dotted down. That came after two tries from flyhalf Lwandile Mapuko and another by scrumhalf Lithemba Ngcetane. Fullback Jano Roux briefly kept FNB Rhodes in the game with two penalty goals, but the Stallions suffered a big setback when captain Simelela Mbanzi was yellow-carded on the half-hour mark. No sooner had he left the field than FNB WSU scored their bonus-point try and the conversion gave them a commanding 26-6 lead. FNB Rhodes showed great character while down to 14 men, with centre Tinashe Famba scoring on the stroke of half-time, but that’s as good as it got for them. After the break, winger Sibusiso Hans scored two more tries for FNB WSU, the second while their tighthead prop, Dale Titus, was in the sin bin. Ngcetane then crossed for two late tries to complete a memorable hat-trick. FNB Varsity Shield Round 6 results and scorers: FNB Rhodes 11 (11) – Try: Tinashe Famba. Penalties: Jano Roux (2). FNB WSU All Blacks 48 (26) – Tries: Lwandile Mapuko (2), Lithemba Ngcetane (3), Lisolethu Valisi, Sibusiso Hans (2). Conversions: Lisolethu Valisi (4). FNB Player That Rocks: Lisolethu Valisi (FNB WSU All Blacks) FNB DUT 15 (8) – Tries: Alberth Kapenda, Minenhle Siwela. Conversion: Siwela. Penalty: Siwela. FNB TUT Vikings 12 (12) – Tries: Malcolm Langa, Damon Sinuka. Conversion: Mauritz Maritz. FNB Player That Rocks: Alberth Kapenda (FNB DUT) FNB CPUT 18 (6) – Tries: Keano Cookson, Ché Klaasen. Conversion: Feghorn-Leigh Synders. Penalties: Snyders (2). FNB UKZN Impi 20 (10) – Tries: CJ Osode, Zamakuhle Zulu. Conversions: Dawro Kock, Jarryd Nicholls. Penalties: Kock, Nicholls. FNB Player That Rocks: Ché Klaasen (FNB CPUT) FNB Varsity Shield teams (Round 6) Round 7 fixtures (Friday, 8 April) FNB UFH Blues vs FNB DUT (15:00, Sisa Dukashe Stadium, SuperSport channel 207) FNB WSU All Blacks vs FNB CPUT (17:00, Sisa Dukashe Stadium, SuperSport channel 207) FNB TUT Vikings vs FNB Rhodes (TUT Stadium, 17:00) Fixtures, results and log Photos: Luigi Bennett/ASEM Engage

FNB Varsity Cup FNB NWU Eagles wing Pienaar van Niekerk reflects on a rollercoaster campaign, his first FNB Player That Rocks accolade and his team's frame of mind heading into the final stages of the competition. The Eagles are currently sixth on the 2022 FNB Varsity Cup log, having won four and lost three games. Van Niekerk is hoping for more consistency from his team in the final two rounds. 'It feels like a rollercoaster campaign because we have won against two of the biggest teams in Shimlas and Tuks, and then we have also been on the receiving end of upsets,' says Van Niekerk. 'Upsets make the competition interesting, but not for us. We had hoped for more consistency from the team.' ROAD TO PLAYOFFS: What top teams need to qualify Van Niekerk (23) has been part of the FNB NWU side since 2019 and is one of the most experienced players in the current squad. 'There were about nine players aged 24 and older when I started,' he says. 'The current group is much younger, easily the youngest group I've been a part of. 'It's understandable that all the experience isn’t there, but it hasn’t gone too badly considering the average age of the squad. ‘The first three games of our campaign didn't go as planned. We lost against UCT after conceding in the last minute and we also had a disastrous second half against UJ. ‘As a team, we’ve had our lows and highs during the campaign. One of our lows was losing to Maties because we always want to win against them at the Danie Craven Stadium. 'The team was really down after that defeat but we managed to pick ourselves up and got a big win against the Madibaz. The win against Tuks is definitely up there as one of our highs because they’re the defending champions. 'Personally, the Player That Rocks accolade meant more to me because it was my first and I was injured weeks before.’ HIGHLIGHTS: FNB NWU Eagles vs FNB Madibaz The FNB NWU Eagles need to win both of their remaining matches to have any chance of qualifying for the playoffs. 'We have everything it takes to go to the semis. and I feel like the team is now peaking,' says Van Niekerk. Interview by Lesiba Dikhoba Photo: Christiaan Kotze/ASEM Engage

FNB Varsity Shield The FNB UFH Blues dedicated their epic FNB Varsity Shield victory against champions FNB CPUT on Friday night to their deceased director of rugby, Elliot Fana. The Blues beat the Capetonians 16-14 on their home patch in Bellville after FNB CPUT sharpshooter Feghon Snyders failed to convert a penalty goal after the hooter. Speaking to VarsityCup.co.za after the match, Fort Hare hooker and captain Kamvilehle Fatyela spoke glowingly about Fana, who tragically lost his life in a car accident on 22 March. “I’m very emotional right now,” said Fatyela. “It was a tough game but we managed to pull it through. We had to win this game for Elliot Fana. We honour him with this victory.” Fana played a pivotal role in the development of Springboks Lukhanyo Am and Makazole Mapimpi during their time at the Border Bulldogs when Fana was head coach. He was also an influential figure for many of the Blues players. “Mr Fana was more than a coach or administrator to us. He was a father figure and mentor,' said Fatyela. 'The least we could do is honour him by getting a victory at CPUT’s home ground where they haven’t lost for so long. "We’re heading home now to the Eastern Cape to attend the funeral of Mr Fana, who was our hero.” HIGHLIGHTS: FNB CPUT vs FNB UFH Blues | Round 5 The visitors took the lead late in the game when centre Migobo Bovu scored a long-range intercept try in the 78th minute to take a slender two-point lead. The Tekkies, spurred on by a boisterous crowd, won a penalty after the subsequent kick-off but Snyders’ kick in windy conditions went marginally wide. “I was nervous at the end but somehow we managed to pull it through,” said Fatyela. “CPUT are a top team and have won back-to-back Varsity Shield titles. I'm very happy with the result and couldn’t be prouder of my boys.” By Shafiek Mouton Main photo: Luigi Bennett/ASEM Engage

FNB Varsity Shield The team lineups for the fifth round of the FNB Varsity Shield on Friday. FNB UKZN IMPI vs FNB RHODES (Friday, 15:00, CPUT Sports Stadium, SuperSport channel 207) FNB UKZN Impi – 15 Trent Coetzee, 14 Zamakuhle Zulu, 13 Jarryd Nicholls, 12 Gacula Poswa, 11 Devandre Adendorf, 10 Dawro Kock, 9 Johan Maritz (c), 8 Tinotenda Mazhindu, 7 Sbongokuhle Ngubane, 6 Sinamava Ntsinde, 5 Nkanyesi Gumede, 4 Nhlakanipho Mathonsi, 3 Ulrich Walker, 2 Qhawe Nxumalo, 1 Benjamin Maseko. Subs: 16 Tristan Trollip, 17 Bambolunye Dlamini, 18 Muzomuhle Ncanana, 19 CJ Osode, 20 Wilhelm Fenske, 21 Thando Cele, 22 Marcello Flemmer, 23 Thobani Shangase. FNB Rhodes – 15 Jano Roux, 14 Cameron Marais, 13 Simelela Mbanzi (c), 12 Tinashe Famba, 11 Matthew Royle, 10 Siyolise Mabodla, 9 Nkosinathi Mvelase, 8 Lathi-Tha Jodwana, 7 Ongeziwe Shumi, 6 Bradley van Heerden, 5 Daniel Dillon, 4 Qhama Jako, 3 Tatenda Tichiwangana, 2 Uzuqaqambe Nyanda, 1 Lwazi Mzamane. Subs: 16 Curt Vermaak, 17 Athenkosi Nkewana, 18 Katlego Petje, 19 Conor Rogers, 20 Nicholas Dettmer, 21 Qawe Mzawuziwa, 22 Simamkele Ngantweni, 23 Liam Agnew. WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Rounds 3 & 4) FNB CPUT vs FNB UFH BLUES (Friday, 17:00, CPUT Sports Stadium, 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 Hugan Engelbrecht, 8 Eely Pieters, 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 Roland van der Heever, 21 Duran Alexander, 22 Keano Cookson, 23 Darren Alexander. 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 Ayabulela Xhosana, 7 Rodney Chikamhi, 6 Lukhanyiso Tosholwana, 5 Walter Moyo, 4 Cinga Nqotyana, 3 Sibabalo Mnkani, 2 Kamvelihle Fatyela (c), 1 Edwin Nxumalo. Subs: 16 Langalethu Susela, 17 Bulela Magopeni, 18 Mbasa Sonkosi, 19 Zimi Ngetu, 20 Avuzwa Noko, 21 Merlin du Plessis, 22 Liyema Tyali, 23 Senanelo Ndlazi. ALSO READ: Five FNB Varsity Shield players who impressed (Rounds 3 & 4) FNB WSU ALL BLACKS vs FNB DUT (Friday, 19:00, CPUT Sports Stadium, SuperSport channel 207) FNB WSU All Blacks – 15 Lwandile Mapuko, 14 Sikho Gaushe, 13 Sibusiso Hans, 22 Thembani Kori, 11 Tebogo Madigoe, 10 Lisolethu Valisi, 9 Eric Mcaphukana, 8 Uyathandwa Fana, 7 Ayabulela Zono, 6 Khanya Solani, 5 Asekho Marubelela (c), 4 Miyelani Ngobeni, 3 Thembalihle Njadu, 2 Bubele Gongqa, 1 Lindokuhle Seteni. Subs: 16 Zanokuhle Nkabi, 17 Anda Matshoba, 18 Dale Titus, 19 Kamva Tetani, 20 Lihle Mbuqu, 21 Lithemba Ngcetane, 12 Asivile Ngcawe, 23 Soyama Mini. FNB DUT – 15 Noah Pekeur, 14 Simtembile Mazwi, 13 Prince Sokhela, 12 Thabani Mnisi, 11 Franscis Muyambo, 10 Giovanni Makaleni, 9 Siyanqoba Zuma, 8 Katambwa Mulumba (c), 7 Willem Bezuidenhout, 6 Sbusiso Ngema, 5 Alethwa Buthelezi, 4 Alberth Kapenda, 3 Siyabonga Mzolo, 2 Siyanda Mthembu, 1 Mpumelelo Xego. Subs: 16 Menzi Myeni, 17 Pernel Ngubo, 18 Malcom Manhanga, 19 Menzi Nxumalo, 20 Malusi Mkhize, 21 Ian de Fouw, 22 Minenhle Siwela, 23 Mthokozisi Hlatshwayo. FNB Varsity Shield 2021-22 combined log NOTE: Teams are supplied by the universities and are subject to change