FNB Varsity Cup Jandré 'Smiley' Nel reflects on his try-scoring exploits for FNB UFS Shimlas, his role from the bench and comparisons to former Springbok scrumhalf Werner Swanepoel Where did your rugby journey start? I started to play 'Bulletjie' rugby in Grade 1. I loved to score tries and make new friends. Rugby was always in my blood, and I knew that I wanted to play professional rugby one day. Who was your biggest influence at Grey College? My friends. We believed and motivated each other. We had some great coaches and they encouraged us to enjoy the game and we were driven to win. Where does the nickname 'Smiley' come from? In Grade 8, my friends started to call me 'Smiley' because I was always laughing and enjoying life. There was another famous Grey College and FNB UFS Shimlas scrumhalf who went by the nickname of 'Smiley'. Werner Swanepoel went on to become 47th Springbok produced by Shimlas. Is he someone you look up to? I’ve never seen him play, but I've heard that he was an excellent scrumhalf. I hope that I can follow in his footsteps. Who do you think is the most colourful character in the squad? Scrumhalf Chadd Adams is a funny person and puts a smile on everyone's face. Flyhalf George Lourens and inside centre Janco van Heyningen are also characters in their own right. They always make everyone feel positive and give good advice on the field. The brotherhood in the team is fantastic and everyone contributes to the positive vibes to ensure that we work hard and enjoy the game. ROAD TO PLAYOFFS: What top teams need to qualify You have become something of a super-sub at FNB UFS Shimlas this season. Is that a role you are happy to fulfil? I always want to make the game quicker and help the team where I can. Shimlas give me the freedom to express myself and I love every moment on the field with the team. The coaches always encourage me to play my game in our systems and I have enjoyed my rugby a lot this year. FNB UFS Shimlas have had a couple of tough games this season. Which one stands out and why? Last week's game against FNB UJ was very tough because it was a must-win game for both teams, who are looking to finish in the top four. They made it hard for us in all aspects of the game. We as a team showed guts and played for each other to get the win. You're playing FNB UP-Tuks at home next Monday, and in many ways, that is also a must-win game. How is the confidence in the camp and what is the most important area to focus on? The mood in the camp is very positive and we know that it is going to be a very important game in terms of securing a spot in the playoffs. We must just take it game-by-game to improve our systems and lift the intensity of our team. WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 7) Interview by Morgan Piek Photo: Catherine Kotze/Asem Engage

FNB Varsity Shield Migcobo Bovu scored a late intercept try to boost the FNB UFH Blues to a shock 16-14 win over FNB CPUT in Bellville on Friday. FNB CPUT appeared to be in control in the final stages, until the inside centre intercepted a loose pass and raced more than 80m to score. Keith Chiwara’s conversion allowed the visitors to claim the lead, and ultimately the victory. As a result, the Blues will remain at the top of the FNB Varsity Shield log. FNB UFH dedicated the win to their director of rugby, Elliot Fana, who tragically died in a car accident on 22 March. The reigning champions backed their running game in the initial stages, but enjoyed limited success against a physical and well-organised Fort Hare defence. The visitors bossed the scrums, and in spite of the windy conditions, Chiwara managed to convert this set-piece dominance into points. FNB UFH led 9-7 at half-time. The battle at the breakdowns and collisions was particularly fierce. While they copped a hiding at the scrums, FNB CPUT showed plenty of fight at the tackle to repel the Blues after the break. Fullback Caine Stadler finished a sweeping attacking move in the corner, and a touchline conversion by flyhalf Feghorn-Leigh Snyders gave the hosts a five-point lead going into the final quarter. Immediately after conceding seven points, the Blues copped their second yellow card of the match. Flank Rodney Chikamhi was sent to the sin bin for a head-butt. FNB CPUT enjoyed plenty of possession and territory in the final 20 minutes. Christopher Andrews looked to have scored the match-winning try, but the TMO ruled that the wing had failed to ground the ball. Following Bovu’s intercept and Chiwara’s conversion, there was further drama as FNB UFH conceded a penalty after the hooter. The long-range attempt by Snyders, however, was wide of the posts. Fort Hare have now extended their winning streak to five matches. In the first match of the day, left wing Devandre Adendorf scored a brace to help the FNB UKZN Impi beat FNB Rhodes 29-21. The Impi started the game with a powerful wind at their backs. They failed to capitalise on that advantage, however, and were guilty of poor handling and worse discipline during the first half. The Stallions eventually escaped their own territory and finished the first stanza with an 11-7 lead. Their determination was best illustrated by replacement prop Athenkosi Nkewana, who repelled several defenders to score an important try before the break. FNB UKZN proceeded to up the tempo and the intensity in the second half and earned some reward when Adendorf touched down for his first try. They continued to attack FNB Rhodes at the scrum, and it was from the back of this set piece that No 8 Tinotenda Mazhindu powered over the line to put his team in charge. The Stallions refused to accept defeat. Fullback Jano Roux intercepted a loose pass by the Impi and raced the length of the field to regain the lead. FNB UKZN didn’t panic, though, and continued to win penalties at the scrum. Further tries by Adendorf and inside centre Gacula Poswa secured the win and the bonus point. When outside centre Jarryd Nicholls converted Poswa’s try, he stretched the Impi's lead to eight points. Roux had the chance to kick a late penalty – and earn his team a losing bonus point – but the attempt drifted wide. In the final fixture of the day, the FNB WSU All Blacks ground out a 19-5 win against FNB DUT. FNB WSU scored 22 tries in their 136-11 thrashing of tournament debutants FNB DUT in the opening match of last year’s FNB Varsity Shield. However, FNB DUT have improved tremendously since 2021, beating FNB Rhodes in their opening match of the 2022 campaign. And on Friday night, the Durbanites made their Eastern Cape opponents work hard for their win. FNB WSU dominated possession in the first quarter, but had to wait until the 18th minute to open the scoring when flank Ayabulela Zono beat four defenders on his way to the tryline. The All Blacks extended their lead to 12-0 late in the half when left wing Tebogo Madigoe’s try in the right corner was converted by flyhalf Lisolethu Valisi. FNB DUT pushed hard for a try in first-half stoppage time and would have been aggrieved not to be awarded a penalty for an apparent late tackle after the ball had been kicked ahead. Fullback Lwandile Mapuko scored FNB WSU’s third try at the end of the third quarter, before FNB DUT finally got on a board through lock Alberth Kapenda with nine minutes remaining. However, for all their efforts, FNB DUT missed out on a losing bonus point and remain bottom of the combined 2021-2022 FNB Varsity Shield log, two points behind FNB Rhodes. The team that finishes last on this log will drop out of the tournament at the end of the season. FNB WSU, meanwhile, are fourth on the 2022 log and heading for the semi-finals. FNB Varsity Shield Round 5 results and scorers: FNB UKZN Impi 29 (7) – Tries: Nhlakanipho Mathonsi, Devandre Adendorf (2), Tinotenda Mazhindu, Gacula Poswa. Conversions: Dawro Kock, Jarryd Nicholls. FNB Rhodes 21 (11) – Tries: Athenkosi Nkewana, Jano Roux. Conversion: Jano Roux. Penalties: Roux (3). FNB Player That Rocks: Jano Roux (FNB Rhodes) FNB CPUT 14 (7) – Tries: Christopher Andrews, Caine Stadler. Conversions: Feghorn-Leigh Snyders (2). FNB UFH Blues 16 (9) – Try: Migcobo Bovu. Conversion: Keith Chiwara. Penalties: Chiwara (3). FNB Player That Rocks: Caine Stadler (FNB CPUT) FNB WSU All Blacks 19 (12) – Try: Ayabulela Zono, Bubele Gongqa, Lwandile Mapuko. Conversions: Lisolethu Valisi (2). FNB DUT 5 (0) – Try: Alberth Kapenda. FNB Player That Rocks: Lwandile Mapuko (FNB WSU All Blacks) FNB Varsity Shield teams (Round 5) Round 6 fixtures (Sunday, 3 April): FNB Rhodes vs FNB WSU All Blacks (15:00, SuperSport channel 207) FNB DUT vs FNB TUT Vikings (17:00, SuperSport channel 207) FNB CPUT vs FNB UKZN Impi (19:00, SuperSport channel 207) All fixtures and logs Photos: Luigi Bennett/Asem Engage

FNB Varsity Shield Pole position will be up for grabs when the FNB Varsity Shield’s form teams collide at the CPUT Sports Stadium on Friday. The Blues lead the log, with four wins and 17 points. FNB CPUT have claimed maximum points from their first three fixtures and trail the leaders by two. One of those winning streaks will come to an end when the two best teams in the FNB Varsity Shield meet on Friday. The game promises to be a clash of styles, and it will be interesting to see whether Fort Hare's forward power or FNB CPUT’s all-out attack secures an important result. The Blues' dominant scrum has laid the platform for recent victories. Lumumba Currie’s side also boasts some powerful ball-carriers with the ability to breach the gainline. In this respect, fans should keep an eye out for centre Migcobo Bovu. ALSO READ: Five FNB Varsity Shield players who impressed (Rounds 3 & 4) FNB CPUT should look to disrupt the rhythm of FNB UFH and play a less-structured game. The Blues have one of the best defences in the tournament – only FNB CPUT have conceded fewer tries – and they will be tougher to breach once their defence has set. If FNB CPUT catch the Blues while they are transitioning from attack to defence, and if Feghorn-Leigh Snyders and company are allowed to work their magic, then it could be a very different ball game. The reigning champions cruised to victory in earlier fixtures. They have yet to be challenged, especially up front, and how they respond on Friday will reveal whether they are contenders or pretenders for the 2022 title. FNB UFH will also have an opportunity to make a big statement. With a bye scheduled for Sunday, all of their energy and focus will be invested in their showdown with FNB CPUT. A win will consolidate their position at the top of the log, and mark them as the team to beat. 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. FNB Varsity Shield teams (Round 5) All fixtures and logs

FNB Varsity Cup VarsityCup.co.za chats to the respective coaches about their teams’ prospects of qualifying for the FNB Varsity Cup playoffs. 2022 FNB Varsity Cup fixtures, results and log FNB UFS SHIMLAS Log position: 1st Remaining fixtures: FNB UP-Tuks (home), FNB Madibaz (away) What they need to do: FNB UFS Shimlas are well placed to qualify for the semi-finals, given that one of their last two fixtures is against the battling FNB Madibaz, who have won one match to date. If they beat FNB UP-Tuks at home – and then go on to down the FNB Madibaz in Gqeberha – they should be in a position to host a semi-final. Director of rugby Swys de Bruin: ‘We are not looking as far ahead as the semi-finals, as we have Tuks next week and we are focused on that challenge. We scored five tries against UJ last week to boost our season tally to 44, and our goal is to score more tries and to play entertaining rugby.’ FNB UCT IKEYS Log position: 2nd Remaining fixtures: FNB Wits (away), FNB CUT Ixias (home) What they need to do: The Ikey Tigers should be looking to secure a home semi-final over the next two weeks. Their next fixture will be a challenging one, given that FNB Wits are still fighting for a place in the final four. They will be big favourites to collect five log points from their home game the FNB CUT Ixias, who are in the running for the wooden spoon. Coach Tom Dawson-Squibb: ‘It's such a cliché, but we are taking it game by game. We are not looking at the semi-finals just yet. I am not going to change up for next week. I want to see if we can beat Wits with this team. We need to improve our attacking breakdowns and fix our lineouts.’ FNB UP-TUKS Log position: 3rd Remaining fixtures: FNB UFS Shimlas (away), FNB UJ (away) What they need to do: The pressure is on FNB UP-Tuks to deliver two wins in the last two matches of the league phase. They will go into the away match against FNB UFS Shimlas as underdogs, and may be hard-pressed to claim any log points. At the very least, they should be targeting a big win against FNB UJ thereafter. That may be enough to earn them a playoff place, but they will have to travel in the semis. Coach Nico Luus: ‘I’m not even thinking about the semis, I’m thinking about next week when we play Shimlas away. The race for the semi-finals is still wide open. That’s why it was so important to get a win against Wits this past week. Our execution was a lot better, but our discipline was not great. It is something we can work on.’ ALSO READ: Five FNB Varsity Cup players who impressed (Round 7) FNB MATIES Log position: 4th Remaining fixtures: FNB Madibaz (home), FNB UWC (home) What they need to do: If not for their recent loss to the Ikey Tigers, FNB Maties would be well placed to top the log and host a semi-final. They’re still in a strong position, though, given that their last two fixtures are against two of the weakest sides in the tournament, and will both be staged in Stellenbosch. They should claim 10 log points from those games, but they may need one or two other results to go their way – such as an upset win for FNB Wits over FNB UCT – in order to finish the league stage in the top two. FNB Maties coach Norman Jordaan was not available for comment WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 7) FNB WITS Log position: 5th Remaining fixtures: FNB UCT Ikeys (home), FNB NWU Eagles (away) What they need to do: No other team faces a tougher road to qualification. After hosting last year’s finalists, they will travel to Potch to face an FNB NWU side that is peaking at the right time. It would be unwise to write them off, though. If they beat the Ikey Tigers, they will travel into their final fixture with the belief that they can ground the Eagles and book a place in the semis. That said, they may still need a few other results to go their way in order to advance. Coach Hugo van As: ‘Our destiny in this tournament is still in our own hands. We have two games to play, and a lot can still happen with quite a few teams vying for a playoff place. From our side, we’ve got to make sure that we win our final two matches. This team will keep on fighting until the final minute of the campaign.’ FNB NWU EAGLES Log position: 6th Remaining fixtures: FNB CUT Ixias (away), FNB Wits (home) What they need to do: The Eagles have built some momentum in the latter stages of the competition. The big question is whether they’ve left their push for a semi-final spot too late. They need five points from their next clash against the FNB CUT Ixias, as well as a big win against an equally desperate FNB Wits side at home. Even that may not be enough to earn them a place in the playoffs. They need a couple of the better-placed teams to stumble over the next two rounds. Coach André Pretorius: ‘We have to think carefully about the next game. The semi-final spots are still available for a lot of teams, and we need to get our combinations right for our upcoming fixtures so that the team can be in a much better place to qualify.’ FNB UJ Log position: 7th Remaining fixtures: FNB UWC (away), FNB UP-Tuks (home) What they need to do: Can FNB UJ claim a full house of log points in both of their remaining matches? They may fancy their chances against FNB UWC, even though the students from the Cape will be scrapping hard to avoid relegation. It’s a bigger ask to score a bonus-point win against the reigning champions, though – and FNB UP-Tuks boast one of the best defences in the tournament. If FNB UJ do achieve their objective, they will still need a few results to go their way. Coach Jonathan Mokuena: ‘We’re still in with a shot – if we win with five points next Monday. Last week’s loss against Shimlas has made things a little difficult for us, because until that game, our destiny was in our own hands.’ AVOIDING RELEGATION: What FNB Varsity Cup teams need to do Photos: Catherine Kotze, Hannes Naude, Barco Greeff/Luigi Bennett/Asem Engage

FNB Varsity Cup VarsityCup.co.za analyses the respective teams’ prospects of relegation from the FNB Varsity Cup. FNB WITS 2022 log position: 5th 2021-22 combined log position: 6th Remaining fixtures: FNB UCT Ikeys (home), FNB NWU Eagles (away) What they need to do: FNB Wits may qualify for the 2022 semi-finals if they win their last two games. Two losses without any bonus points, however, may leave them in a vulnerable position with regards to relegation. If they lose heavily in the next two rounds, and FNB UWC win both of their remaining matches, then the Cape side will move ahead of FNB Wits on the combined log. If FNB UWC win both games and FNB CUT claim two losing bonus points – or even one win from their last two fixtures – then both of those teams will surpass FNB Wits. In that scenario, they will need FNB UJ to lose their games against FNB UWC and FNB UP-Tuks to stay in the top flight. If FNB Wits win one of their last two games, however, they will be safe from the drop. 2022 FNB Varsity Cup fixtures, results and log FNB UJ 2022 log position: 7th 2021-22 combined log position: 8th Remaining fixtures: FNB UWC (away), FNB UP-Tuks (home) What they need to do: In the context of the 2022 tournament, FNB UJ are still in with a chance of qualifying for the playoffs. In terms of the two-year campaign that will determine which eight teams remain in the top flight, and which sides drop down to the FNB Varsity Shield, however, FNB UJ are not safe yet according to the combined log. They need to beat FNB UWC next week to put the relegation matter to rest. They don’t want to leave themselves with too much to do in the last league game against FNB UP-Tuks. If they lose both of their remaining matches, they will need to pick up a couple of bonus points and hope that FNB Maties do them a favour by handing FNB UWC a heavy defeat in round nine. They could also finish ahead of FNB CUT in that scenario, if the Ixias don't claim any further log points from their remaining matches. FNB UWC 2022 log position: 8th 2021-22 combined log position: 9th Remaining fixtures: FNB UJ (home), FNB Maties (away) What they need to do: At the end of the current season, a single log point may determine whether FNB UWC remain in the top flight or drop down to the FNB Varsity Shield. With this in mind, FNB UWC will be kicking themselves after they allowed the FNB CUT Ixias to hit back in the latter stages of the last game, and claim two valuable log points. The upshot is that FNB UWC trail FNB CUT by five points – as opposed to three – on the combined log with two rounds to play. It’s looking like they will have to win both of their remaining matches to survive. While one wouldn’t underestimate them at home, they will be hard-pressed to beat FNB Maties at the fortress-like Danie Craven Stadium. A win against FNB UJ may be enough to keep them in the FNB Varsity Cup, providing they improve their points-differential and other results go their way. Coach Paul Treu: ‘The win against CUT was bittersweet. We allowed them to get back into the game and get two additional bonus points. It’s disappointing if you consider what's at stake [with relegation]. We are going to regroup and reflect, and then try our best [to win the last two games and remain in the FNB Varsity Cup].’ ALSO READ: FNB UWC feeling the relegation heat FNB MADIBAZ 2022 log position: 9th 2021-22 combined log position: 10th Remaining fixtures: FNB Maties (away), FNB UFS Shimlas (home) What they need to do: There is nothing they can do, at least not for themselves. They cannot make up the difference between themselves and the other teams on the combined log, and will be relegated at the end of the season. They could do a few others teams a favour, though, if they score an upset win against FNB Maties or FNB UFS Shimlas, or even if they prevent either of those sides from claiming a four-try bonus point. Coach David Manuel: ‘The campaign hasn’t gone the way we wanted. We need to improve on our mistakes and get our game right. We have two more fixtures and we consider these to be must-win games. It’s important to regroup, and to have a positive mindset. We need to put up a better fight.’ ALSO READ: Five FNB Varsity Cup players who impressed (Round 7) FNB CUT IXIAS 2022 log position: 10th 2021-22 combined log position: 7th Remaining fixtures: FNB NWU Eagles (home), FNB UCT Ikeys (away) What they need to do: The FNB CUT Ixias are playing for pride as well as survival. They could do a few of the top teams a favour if they beat the Eagles or the Ikey Tigers. If they claim losing bonus points from those fixtures, they may well avoid the wooden spoon for the 2022 tournament. In the context of the relegation battle, they are five log points ahead of FNB UWC on the combined table. If the Ixias claim one losing bonus point next Monday – at least – and FNB UWC fail to claim any points from their fixture against FNB UJ, then FNB UWC will be relegated. The odds are against the Ixias winning their remaining matches but, as seen in their recent attacking performance against FNB UWC, they certainly have what it takes to score four tries and claim bonus points. Coach Braam van Straaten: 'If we can execute the controllable aspects well, we can remain clear of the relegation zone. We aren't even looking at our last match yet. For now, our focus is our last home match against the Eagles. I remain totally confident that we will stay in the Varsity Cup.' ROAD TO THE PLAYOFFS: What top teams need to qualify Photos: Catherine Kotze/Barco Greeff/Nasief Manie/Asem Engage

FNB Varsity Cup VarsityCup.co.za selects the standout players from Monday's matches. CLYDE LEWIS (FNB UP-TUKS) The versatile halfback continues to deliver for the reigning champions, who claimed a 39-24 bonus-point win over FNB Wits on Monday. Lewis scored a point-of-origin try in the first half. The game was still in the balance in the second stanza, before Lewis stepped up to kick two penalties that put the result beyond doubt. CHRIS VERMAAK (FNB NWU EAGLES) While the Eagles have blown hot and cold this season, their openside flank Chris Vermaak has made a consistent impact at the breakdowns and collisions. Vermaak was one of the star performers in the Eagles’ 61-26 bonus-point win against the FNB Madibaz, and scored two of the hosts’ eight tries. MATCHDAY WRAP: Ikey Tigers stun Maties in milestone match SULEIMAN HARTZENBERG (FNB UCT IKEYS) The FNB Maties looked to be in control of the big Cape derby until the FNB UCT Ikeys fired late to complete an incredible comeback victory. Hartzenberg set sail from inside his own half and finished a try which – with the conversion – moved the hosts into an eight-point lead. Hartzenberg’s acceleration and speed were evident again at the death when he raced away from defenders to score a second try and give the Ikey Tigers a 44-27 win. The outside centre beat four defenders and gained 180m over the course of the game. ADRIAAN VAN DER BANK (FNB MATIES) FNB Maties dominated for much of the first half against their arch-rivals. Van der Bank provided the spark for the visitors when he took an outside gap and then beat the defenders to the tryline. In cold and windy conditions, the flyhalf kicked brilliantly out of hand and managed the game well. Ultimately, it was not enough to prevent a defeat to the Ikey Tigers. MATTHEW SEKELE (FNB CUT IXIAS) The Ixias fought back from 28-0 down to finish within six points of FNB UWC in Cape Town. While that effort wasn’t enough to earn them a victory, it did secure them two bonus points, which are crucial in the context of the relegation battle. Lock Sekele was hugely influential for the Ixias during their fightback, gaining 43m with ball in hand and scoring two tries. Fixtures, results and log Photos: Catherine Kotze/Barco Greeff/Zaahid Appoles/Nasief Manie/Asem Engage

FNB Varsity Cup Centre Suleiman Hartzenberg scored two late tries as the FNB UCT Ikeys claimed a thrilling 44-27 victory over arch-rivals FNB Maties in the 500th FNB Varsity Cup match. The big Cape derby – as well the historic occasion – certainly lived up to the hype. In spite of cold and windy conditions on the Green Mile, both sides played the game at a lively tempo and dotted down for a point-of-origin try within the first 10 minutes. From there, the FNB Maties forwards began to impose themselves at the gainline. The hosts battled to cope with the physicality of the Maroon Machine and conceded penalty after penalty. Scrumhalf William Rose was shown a yellow card for poor discipline in the 13th minute. Tighthead prop Vernon Matongo showed terrific skill and determination to finish a try shortly before half-time. A conversion and a subsequent penalty by fullback Nevaldo Fleurs ensured that the visitors went to the break with a 17-10 lead. True to form, the Ikey Tigers came out firing in the second stanza. Tries by replacements Imad Khan and Mika Schubert kept them in the contest, as did the boot of fullback Duran Koervort. Just when it appeared as if FNB Maties might regain control, Hartzenberg received the ball in space and raced more than 50m to score a point-of-origin try. Koevort’s conversion propelled the hosts into an eight-point lead with eight minutes remaining. FNB Maties struggled to control possession in the dying stages. When FNB UCT received one final opportunity, however, Hartzenberg accelerated past the exhausted defenders to score his second try and seal the result. Earlier in the day, FNB UWC scored a 44-38 bonus-point win in Cape Town, but allowed the FNB CUT Ixias to claim two valuable log points from the fixture. FNB UWC came into this match needing a victory to avoid certain relegation to the FNB Varsity Shield. From the outset, they adopted a more pragmatic approach, relying on their powerful pack and the accurate kicking of captain Lyle Hendricks to create pressure and opportunities. The Ixias battled to cope at the set pieces and collisions. Lock Ulrich Stander was shown a yellow card in the 30th minute after his team committed one transgression too many. Prop Haniel du Toit then crashed over for his second try – and FNB UWC’s fourth. At that stage, the hosts looked to be on course for a comfortable win. The Ixias punished FNB UWC’s poor management thereafter and proceeded to score two tries before the break. At half-time, FNB UWC held a 28-14 lead. The visitors continued to fight back in the second stanza. When lock Matthew Sekele powered over for his second try of the game, the Ixias were suddenly in a position to claim valuable log points from the fixture. Somewhat inevitably, FNB CUT dotted down for a bonus-point try in the 57th minute. Floris Brand slotted a late penalty to ensure that the visitors picked up a second bonus point for losing by seven points or less. With this result, FNB UWC have boosted their tally to 31 points on the combined 2021-22 log. While they trail FNB CUT Ixias by five log points in the combined standings, they are still alive with two rounds to play. In Pretoria, defending champions FNB UP-Tuks had to work hard for their 39-24 bonus-point win against a plucky FNB Wits team that scored three tries. Two late penalties by fullback Clyde Lewis, who scored a point-of-origin try in the first half, eventually put the result beyond doubt. In Potchefstroom, the FNB NWU Eagles ran in eight tries to hammer the already-relegated FNB Madibaz 61-26 and keep their slim semi-final hopes alive. Two of them were scored by flank Chris Vermaak but it was right wing Pienaar van Niekerk who earned the FNB Player That Rocks award. To their credit, the FNB Madibaz did score four tries to earn a bonus point. In Johannesburg, the FNB UFS Shimlas finished strongly to record a 37-26 bonus-point victory against FNB UJ. The Orange Army led 23-16 at half-time and 26-23 on the hour mark, but ran out of steam in the final quarter as replacements Kwezi Dlamini and Jandré Nel both crossed the line for the visitors. Varsity Cup Round 7 results and scorers: FNB UWC 44 (28) – Tries: Aydon Topley, Haniel du Toit (2), Romuald Ntumba (1x7), Mauritz Swart (1x7), Nicholas Chipanje. Conversions: Lyle Hendricks (5). FNB CUT Ixias 38 (5) – Tries: Matthew Sekele (1x7, 1x5). Jacquin van Wyk (1x7), Septimus Derkesen, Albertus Venter. Conversions: Floris Brand (3). Penalty: Brand. FNB Player That Rocks: Nicholas Chipanje (FNB UWC) FNB UCT Ikeys 44 (10) – Tries: Rihaz Fredericks (1x7), Imad Khan (1x7), Mika Schubert, Suleiman Hartzenberg (2x7). Conversions: Duran Koevort (4). Penalty: Koevort.
 FNB Maties 27 (17) – Tries: Adriaan van der Bank (1x7), Vernon Matongo, Simon Miller. Conversions: Nevaldo Fleurs (2). Penalties: Fleurs (2). FNB Player That Rocks: Suleiman Hartzenberg (FNB UCT Ikeys) FNB UP-Tuks 39 (21) – Tries: Bernard van der Linde (1x7), Clyde Lewis (1x7), Kabelo Mokoena, Orateng Koikanyang. Conversions: Walter Visser (3). Penalties: Visser, Lewis (2). FNB Wits 24 (17) – Tries: Dameon Venter, Setshaba Mokoena, Wian de Lange. Conversions: Chris Humphries (2), Keagan Lailvaux. Penalty: Humphries. FNB Player That Rocks: Clyde Lewis (FNB UP-Tuks) FNB NWU Eagles 61 (33) – Tries: Vernon Paulo, Pienaar van Niekerk (1x7), Gustav Erlank (1x7), Theunis Pretorius, Chris Vermaak (2), André Fouché, Tino Swanepoel (1x7). Conversions: Martin Venter (5), Nivan Petersen. Penalty: Venter. FNB FNB Madibaz 26 (12) – Tries: Kyle Cyster (1x7), Kholiwe Khonza, Jade Stoffels (1x7), Wayne Moss. Conversion: Stoffels. FNB Player That Rocks: Pienaar van Niekerk (FNB NWU Eagles) FNB UJ 26 (23) – Tries: Mpho Kubheka, Darnell Osuagwu, Musawenkosi Tshabalala (1x7). Conversions: Jonathan Viljoen (3). Penalty: Viljoen. FNB UFS Shimlas 37 (16) – Tries: Asanda Kunene, Zane Bester (1x7), Blaine Golden, Kwezi Dlamini, Jandré Nel. Conversions: Litha Nkula (5). FNB Player That Rocks: George Lourens (FNB UFS Shimlas) FNB Varsity Cup teams (Round 7) FNB Varsity Cup Round 8 fixtures (4 April): FNB UWC vs FNB UJ (17:00, UWC Stadium, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UFS Shimlas vs FNB UP-Tuks (19:00, Shimla Park, SuperSport channel 211) FNB Maties vs FNB Madibaz (19:00, Danie Craven Stadium, SuperSport Schools App) FNB CUT Ixias vs FNB NWU Eagles (19:00, CUT Rugby Stadium, SuperSport Schools App) FNB Wits vs FNB UCT Ikeys (19:00, Wits Rugby Stadium, SuperSport Schools App) Fixtures, results and log Photos: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images/Nasief Manie/Catherine Kotze/Barco Greeff/Christiaan Kotze/Asem Engage

FNB Varsity Cup FNB UP-Tuks prop Ethan Burger on moving from Durban to Pretoria, being part of the FNB UP-Tuks set-up and his rugby aspirations. When did your love for rugby begin? I was born in Durban and we moved to Cape Town when I was very young. I went to SACS, a very English school. I wasn’t the smartest guy, so the only thing I did well in was sport. I played rugby and cricket throughout high school. How did you end up in Pretoria? The Bulls made me an offer after the St Stithians Rugby Festival in 2018. I accepted it two months later after giving it some thought and moved to Pretoria to play for the Bulls and Tuks. I’ve represented the Bulls at U19 and U21 levels. I really enjoy the professional setup and getting paid to be a professional athlete. This is your first season with FNB UP-Tuks. What’s it like to be part of their rugby set-up? I’m grateful to be part of the Tuks rugby family, when you look at the team and the depth we have. There are so many good players. I’m just grateful that the coaches gave me the opportunity to play and prove myself and show what I can do. When you get that chance, you have to take it. The lockers in the Tuks change room have the names of Tuks players who became Springboks. If you look at the history and all the big names, you realise how lucky you are to play for the Stripe Generation. What are your most memorable rugby moments? To be honest, whenever I score a try I’m exhausted! My favourite try was against Paarl Gimnasium when I got an interception on their 10m line, stepped inside and ran straight through the defence. My best rugby moment by far was against Paarl Gimnasium when we fought back from 19-0 down at half-time to win 21-19. Where do you draw your inspiration from? Both my parents, particularly my dad. I’m grateful for everything he has done for me and my family and all the sacrifices he has made. He played fullback for Natal U21 before getting injured. That injury forced him to stop playing rugby. I took my rugby superstition from my dad. Before every game, I put on my right sock and right boot first and then my left sock and left boot. I also looked up to Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira. I loved watching him play in the scrums and with ball in hand. His ball-carrying and physicality was impressive. I was sad when he retired. What are your rugby aspirations? I want to play overseas, particularly in England or France. Those are good places to play rugby as a forward because of the emphasis on set pieces, especially scrums. What have you learned from playing rugby? Rugby teaches you a lot of lessons. For me, it’s discipline, hard work and you have to take every opportunity that comes your way and treat each opportunity like it could be the last. What are you studying? A B-Ed [Bachelor of Education]. Rugby doesn’t last forever, so you need a backup. As soon as my rugby career is over, I’m going into teaching and coaching. I want to stay involved in rugby. Interview by ‪‪Lehlogonolo Ditshego

FNB Varsity Cup The team lineups for the seventh round of the FNB Varsity Cup on Monday. ALSO READ: FNB UWC feeling the relegation heat FNB UWC vs FNB CUT IXIAS (Monday, 17:00, UWC Stadium, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UWC – 15 Tiaan Henecke, 14 Tasriq Mynhardt, 13 Aydon Topley, 12 Lubelo Scott, 11 Will Vraagom, 10 Lyle Hendricks (c), 9 Conwill Conradie, 8 Romuald Ntumba, 7 Godfrey Muzanarwo, 6 Nicholas Chipanje, 5 Jaen-Louis de Lange, 4 Bronlee Mouries, 3 Riaan van der Merwe, 2 Mauritz Swart, 1 Haniel du Toit. Subs: 16 Husayn Banzi, 17 Keanuh Michaels, 18 Andries Engelbrecht, 19 Asive Mjoli, 20 Gino Kemp, 21 Patrick Kotze, 22 Tandile Hoyi, 23 Justin Theys. FNB CUT Ixias – 15 Floris Brand, 14 Gian Bester, 13 Christiaan Venter, 12 Septimus Derkesen, 11 Jacquin van Wyk, 10 Zinedene Booysen, 9 Xavier Swartbooi, 8 Luvuyo Ndevu (c), 7 Kevin Strydom, 6 Andile Mfaswe, 5 Matthew Sekele, 4 Ulrich Stander, 3 Cohen Kiewit, 2 Tiaan Drotske, 1 Albertus Venter. Subs: 16 Tebogo Masemola, 17 Mamelo Moshoaliba, 18 Sisipho Nofuya, 19 Francois Bester, 20 Jan Kotze, 21 Jakobus du Plessis, 22 Tsepo Malumane, 23 Karabo Maqeba. ALSO READ: 500 games later – Where are FNB Varsity Cup stars now? FNB UCT IKEYS vs FNB MATIES (Monday, 19:00, UCT Rugby Fields, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UCT Ikeys – 15 Duran Koevort, 14 Rihaz Fredericks, 13 Suleiman Hartzenberg, 12 Rethabile Louw, 11 Ntokozo Makhaza, 10 David Hayes, 9 William Rose, 8 Jason MacLeod Smith, 7 Taariq Kruger, 6 Sipho Dyonase, 5 Thomas Meyer, 4 Reynhardt Crous, 3 Keagan Glade, 2 Keagan Blanckenberg, 1 Luthando Woji (c). Subs: 16 Alex Castle, 17 Seth Christian, 18 Alizwa Mngqeta, 19 Mika Schubert, 20 Matthew Hamilton, 21 Imad Khan, 22 Kian Davis, 23 Thoubaan Gabriels. FNB Maties – 15 Nevaldo Fleurs, 14 Mike Mavovana, 13 Waqar Solaan, 12 Taigh Schoor, 11 Sibabalwe Xamlashe, 10 Adriaan van der Bank (c), 9 Thomas Bursey, 8 Simon Miller, 7 De Wet Marais, 6 Gift Dlamini, 5 Matthew Gray, 4 Juan Beukes, 3 Vernon Matongo, 2 Sean Swart, 1 Rhynardt Rijnsburger. Subs: 16 Jan-Corrick van der Watt, 17 Wian van Zyl, 18 Corné Weilbach, 19 Jesse Johnson, 20 Siyabonga Matanda, 21 Mckyle Volmoer, 22 Brendan Venter, 23 Marcqiewn Titus. ALSO READ: Big Game – FNB UCT Ikeys vs FNB Maties FNB UP-TUKS vs FNB WITS (Monday, 19:00, Tuks Stadium, SuperSport Schools App & YouTube channel) FNB UP-Tuks – 15 Clyde Lewis, 14 Kabelo Mokoena, 13 Zander Reynders, 12 Lincoln Daniels (c), 11 Tharquin Manuel, 10 Walter Visser, 9 Bernard van der Linde, 8 Orateng Koikanyang, 7 Hilton Gie, 6 Stephan Smit, 5 Divan Venter, 4 Mihlali Stamper, 3 Francois Klopper, 2 Allister Williams, 1 Ethan Burger. Subs: 16 Werner Fourie, 17 André van der Merwe, 18 Daniël Wessels, 19 Roald Hattingh, 20 Marco Venter, 21 Chad-Lee Valentine, 22 Keane Galant, 23 Ambesa Zenzile. 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 Lindo Ncusane, 7 Ziyanda Msipha, 6 Phillip Krause, 5 Edward White, 4 Cal Smid, 3 Ebot Buma (c), 2 Dameon Venter, 1 Jason Cloete. Subs: 16 Dagan Meuwese, 17 Prince Mulea, 18 Franco Groenewald, 19 Kyle Van Eyssen, 20 Alexander Skudder, 21 Wernich Aucamp, 22 Keagan Lailvaux, 23 Siyabonga Xulu. WATCH: FNB Impact Player (Round 6) FNB NWU EAGLES vs FNB MADIBAZ (Monday, 19:00, Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds, SuperSport Schools App & YouTube channel) 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 Gustav Erlank, 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 Ntobeko Shezi, 19 Wihan Nel, 20 André Fouché, 21 Riaan Genis, 22 Nivan Petersen, 23 Keenan Twigg. FNB Madibaz – 15 Kyle Cyster, 14 Jade Stoffels, 13 Reese Cambier, 12 Troy Delport, 11 Kholiwe Khonza, 10 Siphosethu Dlongodlongo, 9 Anovuyo Moyikwa, 8 Arnouw Nel (c), 7 Leon van der Merwe, 6 Alwaba Bobelo, 5 Terrance Siyaya, 4 Dylan Halgreen, 3 Marco Nortje, 2 Ruan Jonker, 1 Endinako Kuse. Subs: 16 Kyle Erasmus, 17 Likhona Dywili, 18 Aqhamile Limba, 19 Umna Tokwe, 20 Siphelo Sanyinyi, 21 Wayne Moss, 22 Brandt Fields, 23 Lennox Holster. WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 6) FNB UJ vs FNB UFS SHIMLAS (Monday, 19:00, UJ Stadium, SuperSport Schools App & YouTube channel) FNB UJ – 15 Shaun-Christian Baxter, 14 Likhaya Tengimfene, 13 Musawenkosi Tshabalala, 12 Indiphile Tyeda, 11 Ilunga Mukendi, 10 Jonathan Viljoen, 9 Mpho Kubheka, 8 Buhlebenkosi Qaba, 7 CJ Masuku, 6 Kelvin Kanenungo (c), 5 Brendon Pawson, 4 Philip Apea-Adu, 3 Ntokozo Hlophe, 2 Darnell Osuagwu, 1 Kayden Kiewit. Subs: 16 Elizee Kwitonda, 17 Andrew Siminyu, 18 Chergin Fillies, 19 Babalo Makana, 20 Connor van Buuren, 21 Keegan Joubert, 22 Ruben Liebenberg, 23 Rowan Malgas. 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 Pierre Uys, 4 Thabang Mahlasi (c), 3 Blaine Golden, 2 Carl Wijburg, 1 Melusi Mthabela. Subs: 16 Wihan Marais, 17 Loyiso Peteni, 18 Reinhardt Nel, 19 Reinier Viljoen, 20 Lohan Potgieter, 21 Jandré Nel, 22 Kwezi Dlamini, 23 Luthando Buthelezi. ALSO READ: FNB UJ have a massive opportunity – Mokuena NOTE: Teams are supplied by the universities and are subject to change FNB Varsity Cup 2021-22 combined log

FNB Varsity Cup The 500th FNB Varsity Cup match will be fiercely contested by two attack-minded rivals gunning for top spot on the log. FNB UCT will have a point to prove after their insipid performance last week. The Ikey Tigers leaked 58 points and eight tries in the defeat to FNB UFS Shimlas in Bloemfontein. As a result, they have dropped from first to third in the FNB Varsity Cup standings. Meanwhile, FNB Maties have moved to the top of the log following their 20-12 win against the FNB NWU Eagles. They remain on course to secure a home semi-final, and perhaps a home final. Will the FNB UCT Ikeys throw a spanner in the Maroon Machine, though? History is against the Ikey Tigers, even on the Green Mile. And yet, as many of the performances over the past six weeks have shown, FNB UCT have a knack for defying the odds. Perhaps they will take heart from the fact that they have overturned a half-time lead to win on three occasions. That stat is a testament to their conditioning and character. That said, that stat also speaks to a series of underwhelming first-half performances. They will have to be more physical and more accurate when they host FNB Maties on Monday night – from the first whistle to the last. ALSO READ: 500 games later – Where are FNB Varsity Cup stars now? FNB Maties will fancy their chances of claiming another important win. They have the pack to win the set pieces and to strike from close range. Sean Swart has scored seven tries in 2022. The bustling hooker has proved difficult to stop at the back of the maul, and when executing the pick and go within the red zone. Fullback Nevaldo Fleurs is ranked second in the tournament for points scored (61). There are a number of threats across the FNB Maties backline, but the success of those players will be linked to the performance of the visiting pack. It will be interesting to see whether the FNB UCT Ikeys engage with their rivals in the set pieces and in the trenches, or whether they pursue a looser, high-tempo approach. They have some outstanding broken-field runners, and a skilled game manager in flyhalf David Hayes. Fullback Duran Koevort has scored four tries and a total of 56 points to date. The FNB Maties defence, however, may be equal to the task. The men in maroon have conceded 138 points in six games – 50 of those in the heavy defeat to FNB UFS Shimlas in round two. Only FNB UP-Tuks have conceded fewer points in 2022. STATS AND FACTS • The FNB UCT Ikeys have trailed at half-time in four of their six matches this season, winning three of those four matches • The FNB UCT Ikeys’ 58-7 defeat to UFS-Shimlas last week was the first match of the season in which they failed to score a four-try bonus point • The FNB UCT Ikeys have only beaten FNB Maties once before at this venue in the FNB Varsity Cup (2014) • The FNB Maties have won 12 of the previous 17 FNB Varsity Cup matches between these two sides • The FNB Maties are chasing their 100th FNB Varsity Cup victory. No other team has won more matches in this tournament ALSO READ: 22 Fascinating FNB Varsity Cup facts ahead of 500th match FNB UCT IKEYS vs FNB MATIES (Monday, 19:00, UCT Rugby Fields, SuperSport channel 211) FNB UCT Ikeys – 15 Duran Koevort, 14 Rihaz Fredericks, 13 Suleiman Hartzenberg, 12 Rethabile Louw, 11 Ntokozo Makhaza, 10 David Hayes, 9 William Rose, 8 Jason MacLeod Smith, 7 Taariq Kruger, 6 Sipho Dyonase, 5 Thomas Meyer, 4 Reynhardt Crous, 3 Keagan Glade, 2 Keagan Blanckenberg, 1 Luthando Woji (c). Subs: 16 Alex Castle, 17 Seth Christian, 18 Alizwa Mngqeta, 19 Mika Schubert, 20 Matthew Hamilton, 21 Imad Khan, 22 Kian Davis, 23 Thoubaan Gabriels. FNB Maties – 15 Nevaldo Fleurs, 14 Mike Mavovana, 13 Waqar Solaan, 12 Taigh Schoor, 11 Sibabalwe Xamlashe, 10 Adriaan van der Bank (c), 9 Thomas Bursey, 8 Simon Miller, 7 De Wet Marais, 6 Gift Dlamini, 5 Matthew Gray, 4 Juan Beukes, 3 Vernon Matongo, 2 Sean Swart, 1 Rhynardt Rijnsburger. Subs: 16 Jan-Corrick van der Watt, 17 Wian van Zyl, 18 Corné Weilbach, 19 Jesse Johnson, 20 Siyabonga Matanda, 21 Mckyle Volmoer, 22 Brendan Venter, 23 Marcqiewn Titus. 2022 FNB Varsity Cup teams (Round 7) FNB Varsity Cup 2021-22 combined log

FNB Varsity Cup John Dobson coached the FNB UCT Ikeys in the first-ever FNB Varsity Cup match against NWU Pukke (now the Eagles) on 18 February 2008 with his team going on to contest the final against FNB Maties. On Monday, the 500th FNB Varsity Cup match will take place at the UCT Rugby Fields (19:00, SuperSport channel 211) between the hosts and FNB Maties. Dobson, the current Stormers coach, remembers the first FNB Varsity Cup match – and season – in 2008 like it was yesterday. ‘We had absolutely no clue what we were in for,’ he tells VarsityCup.co.za. ‘Pukke had dominated SAU Week the week before as well as the FNB Superbowl, in which we had struggled. Their players were massive. We were very much an amateur varsity side.' Dobson’s men lost that first FNB Varsity Cup game 23-17 but did not suffer another league-stage defeat on their way to topping the log. However, because the floodlights at UCT were not adequate for a TV broadcast, the final against second-placed FNB Maties was moved to the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch. ‘We beat Maties in the league stage [38-34] and in the final against them we were leading by a point and had the ball after the hooter. But we lost possession and Maties scored a try. ‘We probably deserved to win that final but were proud of our first year nonetheless. It was an exceptional campaign for a team with our limited player and financial resources.’ ALSO READ: 500 games later – Where are FNB Varsity Cup stars now? Interview by Ayanda Frances Felem

FNB Varsity Cup Former FNB Maties coach Chean Roux reflects on an unforgettable 2008 FNB Varsity Cup tournament, the 500-game milestone and the impact the competition has had on his career. The 2008 FNB Maties side showed remarkable resilience to fight back and win their semi-final, and scored a try after the hooter to win the final. How did you as a coach foster that sense of belief? The final was incredible. We had finished second behind UCT but the final was hosted in Stellenbosch [due to UCT not having adequate floodlights for a TV broadcast]. The group of players had been together for a while, and had won the National Club Championship in 2005 and 2007. There was a good foundation. How different was the make-up of the team back then? Captain Bennie Booysen – who was already working at the time – really grafted to be playing for Maties. Scrumhalf Wilhelm Koch was studying dentistry and had said no to provincial contracts as he wanted to finish his degree. Morné Jooste – who scored the match-winning try – was busy with his honours degree. Then players like Juan de Jongh and Joe Pietersen were professional rugby players which added another element. What do you remember about the culture and values of the side? The one thing that stands out is that it was always a pleasure going to the practices. There was always someone cracking a joke. Even though we trained really hard and some tough words were said at the training sessions, the okes always had fun. The players kept each other on their toes, so if someone made a mistake someone else would always have something to say. If something was wrong in a video session or in a speech, the players would have a go. It was just such a fantastic group of guys. Winning games helped, but even after we lost a few games the culture was very good. ALSO READ: 22 Fascinating FNB Varsity Cup facts ahead of 500th match FNB Maties and the FNB UCT Ikeys are playing the 500th game of the tournament on Monday. FNB Maties have the chance to claim their 100th FNB Varsity Cup win. How fitting is it that these two teams will feature in such a monumental match? It's actually incredible that this is the 500th match. It feels like only yesterday that I started my own career. Even when I played for the Stellenbosch U20 side, the game against UCT was massive. The old Maties alumni would tell you that you can lose all the other games, but never the match against UCT. The crowd around the field made it such a special game. Win or lose, the atmosphere was always incredible. The fans got into busses and travelled to wherever the game was staged. My hope is that this never dies and that it always remains something special. Speaking as a coach who has won the tournament three times, do you have any advice to impart to the current side that’s looking to lift the trophy? My advice wouldn’t be good advice [laughs]. I would use all the cliches in the book! Working hard and all of that. The last thing Springbok and Maties legend Ian Kirkpatrick said to me is that you need a lot of luck to win trophies. I think we used up all of our luck at some stage during that Varsity Cup in 2008. You must know that your luck will turn, though, and that every team competing for a trophy will enjoy some luck at some point. We also had a great management and support structure in place. It takes a lot of hard work to put a team in a position to compete for titles, and we were very fortunate to have that in the early days of the Varsity Cup. ALSO READ: 500 games later – Where are FNB Varsity Cup stars now? Since leaving FNB Maties, you’ve gone on to work with the Springboks and the Junior Springboks. How much of your career was influenced by the success you enjoyed in the FNB Varsity Cup? If it wasn’t for Varsity Cup and the foundation that it laid, I wouldn’t have had the platform to be a coach. Francois Pienaar, Derek Carstens [who passed away in 2021] and FNB created an amazing platform, not just for me, but for a lot of coaches and players. The competition has broadened the ground level for coaches and players and given us opportunities. It’s a fantastic tournament and I’m just super grateful to have played a small little part. It’s probably the best tournament that there is! Interview by Dorfling Terblanche