FNB Varsity Cup VarsityCup.co.za content contributors Bronwen Bain and Dan Lombard select the standout players from Sunday's matches in Pretoria. MICHAEL BRINK (FNB UCT IKEYS) The inside centre had a mammoth 71 minutes against the FNB Madibaz as his two tries and three conversions helped the Ikey Tigers secure top spot on the log. He was not only outstanding on attack but his defence was impenetrable too. Stratus stats Tries: 2 Ball carries: 11 Metres run: 176 Metres gained: 95 Offloads: 1 Line breaks: 1 Tackles: 6/6 PRINCE NKABINDE (FNB UJ) FNB UJ were trailing 23-3 before Nkabinde powered over for a try three minutes into first-half stoppage-time. The winger scored another in the 58th minute as their comeback continued, this time a seven-pointer that showcased his speed, while he was also solid on defence. Stratus stats Tries: 2 Ball carries: 6 Metres run: 183 Metres made: 31 Tackles: 5/6 WATCH: FNB Impact Player (Round 9) KEAGAN LAILVAUX (FNB WITS) The flyhalf commanded his backs with precision, picking out players in space or taking it up himself. He also provided FNB Wits with the territory needed by kicking for space and turning FNB UWC around when required. Stratus stats Conversions: 4/5 Ball carries: 8 Metres run: 67 Metres gained: 43 Tackles: 6/9 General play kicks: 7 ANDRÉ FOUCHÉ (FNB NWU EAGLES) The 21-year-old loose forward is a menace at the breakdown. Despite playing every minute of the Eagles’ 2021 campaign, Fouché is showing no signs of fatigue as he continues to put in dominant performances. Stratus stats Ball carries: 11 Metres run: 134 Metres gained: 74 Offloads: 2 Tackles: 13/15 Attacking breakdown arrivals: 11 JANUS VENTER (FNB CUT IXIAS) The Ixias hooker scored four tries from driving mauls in their crucial win against FNB UP-Tuks to move to the top of the 2021 try-scoring charts with 10. Venter also made 12 tackles and got stuck into the breakdown. Stratus stats Tries: 4 Lineouts won: 12/15 Tackles: 12/14 Attacking breakdown arrivals: 11 Defending breakdown arrivals: 4 WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 9) Photos: Christiaan Kotze/Catherine Kotze/Varsity Cup

FNB Varsity Cup Having represented Scotland U20 two years ago, FNB UJ captain Kwagga van Niekerk still hopes to play Test rugby for his adopted nation. Van Niekerk passionately led FNB UJ during this year's FNB Varsity Cup, with his performances as a player attracting attention from the rugby community. The 22-year-old utility forward – who can play lock, flank and No 8 – credits his improvement to a stint with Scotland U20 in 2019. "Playing in the U20 Six Nations and World Rugby U20 Championship was a turning point for me," he told VarsityCup.co.za. "The level of professionalism and quality of player is extremely high, so I had no choice but to get stuck in and work hard." Van Niekerk, who qualifies to play for Scotland through his grandfather, earned three caps in the U20 Six Nations and a further four in the U20 Championship. That included meetings against the Junior Springboks and New Zealand U20s, with the former being an emotional experience for the ex-Hoërskool Monument scholar. "I was a bit taken aback when I wasn't selected for Junior Springbok preparation camps, so when Scotland unexpectedly came knocking, I jumped at the opportunity," explains the second-year Diploma in Transport student. "Lining up against my countrymen was tough as I love South Africa, its people and its rugby, but the moment the first whistle blew I had to get out of that mindset and focus on my teammates. It was not an easy thing to do." Van Niekerk returned to South Africa last year, as he was still contracted to the Lions, but has not given up on his dream of playing Test rugby for Scotland. "I'm grateful to the Scottish Rugby Union for the U20 opportunity," he says. "Their faith in me has changed my career trajectory as I want to move up the Scottish club ranks and hopefully become a fully-capped international for them one day. For now, though, I'm focused on my studies." Van Niekerk's promising start to his professional career, which also saw him represent the Lions in the U19 and U21 SA Rugby Championships and earn senior caps in the SuperSport Rugby Challenge, was almost curtailed in September last year. "I was training with the Lions U21s and during a flush-out gym session, while squatting, I heard an ominous pop in my back and hip," he recalls. "The pain was intense and I could barely walk to the car. "The diagnosis was a herniated lower back disc and torn hip labrum. The rehabilitation that followed was intense and it was a dark time in rugby for me. I couldn't really do anything. I was struggling to sleep and tieing my shoes was a mission. I wasn't in a good space at all. "My faith got me through it," he adds. "Trusting in a bigger plan with the love and support of my family and girlfriend Nicole Spangenberg all contributed to my positivity and ability to bounce back while UJ Rugby was incredible in keeping me goal-focused." With a full FNB Varsity Cup season completed, it's safe to say that Van Niekerk's career is firmly back on track.

FNB Varsity Cup FNB CUT claimed a thrilling 41-40 victory against FNB UP-Tuks at Loftus Versfeld on Sunday, while there were also Round 9 wins for FNB UCT, FNB NWU, FNB Wits and FNB Maties. As a result, second-placed FNB Maties will meet third-placed FNB UP-Tuks in the first FNB Varsity Cup semi-final on Friday, 28 May (17:00), with the table-topping FNB UCT Ikeys taking on the winner of Tuesday’s rescheduled match between the FNB CUT Ixias and FNB NWU Eagles in Friday’s second semi-final (19:00). FNB UCT IKEYS 34 (7) FNB MADIBAZ 23 (8) FNB UCT secured top spot on the FNB Varsity Cup log with a bonus-point victory against the winless FNB Madibaz at the Tuks B-Field, writes Dan Lombard. The Ikey Tigers made 12 changes to their starting lineup with an eye on their upcoming semi-final and it did disrupt their rhythm in the first half. FNB UCT struck first in the 11th minute as hooker Josh van Vuuren barrelled his way over with inside centre Michael Brink converting. This proved to be their last points of the first stanza. FNB Madibaz flyhalf Warrick Day slotted a penalty before replacement scrumhalf André Gerber darted away from a scrum to score the first try. Outside centre Aya Oliphant ran in a delightful point-of-origin try to hand the men from the Eastern Cape a 15-7 lead early in the second half. But FNB UCT then corrected the ship, with Brink bagging a brace before lock Matthew Grobler scored a point-of-origin bonus-point try. Replacement flyhalf James Tedder and replacement utility back Kyle Bowman slotted penalties to extend the lead to 34-18 before FNB Madibaz replacement prop Jaco van der Walt crossed for a consolation try. FNB Player That Rocks: Michael Brink (FNB UCT Ikeys) FNB UCT Ikeys – Tries: Josh van Vuuren, Michael Brink (2), Matthew Grobler (1x7). Conversions: Brink (3). Penalties: James Tedder, Kyle Bowman. FNB Madibaz – Tries: André Gerber, Aya Oliphant (1x7), Jaco van der Walt. Penalty: Warrick Day. Drop goal: Schutte. FNB UJ 29 (8) FNB NWU EAGLES 33 (23) The FNB NWU Eagles survived a second-half fightback from FNB UJ to record a vital win at Loftus Versfeld, writes Bronwen Bain. FNB NWU led 28-8 after 52 minutes before FNB UJ stormed back to lead 29-28 after 62 minutes. But two late yellow cards proved costly for the Orange Army as the Eagles scored the match-winning try against 13 men. FNB UJ centre Indiphile Tyeda opened the scoring with an early penalty goal, before FNB NWU fullback Pienaar van Niekerk dotted down in the right corner. The Eagles suffered a setback when they lost flyhalf Nivan Petersen to injury but winger Charl Pretorius lifted their spirits when he added his name to the scoresheet and captain Marco Donges added another conversion. FNB UJ were reduced to 14 men when lock Tyler Brown was yellow-carded for a high tackle after which Eagles winger Sylvester Hassien scored the first point-of-origin try of the afternoon. No sooner had FNB UJ returned to 15 men than FNB NWU replacement centre Bernu Engelbrecht was carded for a late tackle. FNB UJ wing Prince Nkabinde then powered over for a try to make it 23-8 at the break. Van Niekerk got his second try 12 minutes into the second half to restore the Eagles’ 20-point lead, but Nkabinde turned the game on its head when he scored a sensational individual point-of-origin try. That was followed shortly after by replacement flyhalf Jurich Claasens’ self-converted try, which put the Johannesburg outfit 29-28 ahead. However, FNB UJ's discipline cost them when both captain Lunga Ncube and replacement prop Nkosikhona Masuku were yellow-carded for maul infringements. FNB NWU hooker Gustav du Rand went over for his eighth try of the tournament a couple of minutes later for what proved to be the match-winner. FNB Player That Rocks: Indiphile Tyeda (FNB UJ) FNB NWU Eagles – Tries: Pienaar van Niekerk (2), Charl Pretorius, Sylvester Hassien, Gustav du Rand. Conversions: Nivan Petersen, Marco Donges (2). FNB UJ – Tries: Prince Nkabinde (1x5, 1x7), Indiphile Tyeda, Jurich Claasens. Conversion: Jurich Classens. Penalty: Indiphile Tyeda. FNB WITS 40 (26) FNB UWC 10 (0) FNB Wits ended FNB UWC’s semi-final hopes with a convincing win at the Tuks B-Field, writes Dan Lombard. Udubs came into this match full of confidence after thrashing FNB CUT, but two matches in four days appeared to take its toll as FNB Wits claimed just their second win of the campaign. FNB Wits settled after a choppy opening 10 minutes as flank Mark Snyman forced his way over the line to score a converted try. Yet it would be rough seas for several more minutes and only after Udubs lost fullback Gilroy Lee Philander to a yellow card that the men in royal blue would bother the scoreboard again. The wait proved to be worth it as a cheeky kick from the base of the ruck by scrumhalf Hlumelo Ndudala was hunted down by replacement utility back Siyabonga Xulu. Flyhalf Keagan Lailvaux added the extras. With immense intent and direction, FNB Wits made it difficult for Udubs to put together any meaningful phases of play and quickly discovered that their attack was more often than not being converted into defence by their opponents. This was demonstrated when FNB Wits hooker Dameon Venter and No 8 Lindokuhle Ncusane scored tries, with Lailvaux converting the latter to rack a commanding 26-0 half-time lead. Udubs finally got a reward for their efforts when flyhalf Ethan Diston slotted a penalty but this did little to dent the metal chassis of the Wits-mobile as fullback Setshaba Mokoena rounded off a sizzling point-of-origin try. Yet another lull in play, with tempo set barely above undercooked, was finally broken as Ncusane floated over untouched to score. Udubs did finish the match with a try when wing Lungi Msenge ran a deft line and replacement hooker Johan Lamprecht kicked the conversion. FNB Player That Rocks: Mark Snyman (FNB Wits) FNB Wits – Tries: Mark Snyman, Siyabonga Xulu, Dameon Venter, Lindokuhle Ncusane (2), Setshaba Mokoena (1×7). Conversions: Keagan Lailvaux (4). FNB UWC – Try: Lungi Msenge. Conversion: Johan Lamprecht. Penalty: Ethan Diston. FNB UFS SHIMLAS 24 (5) FNB MATIES 81 (39) FNB Maties thrashed FNB UFS Shimlas at Loftus Versfeld to set up a semi-final meeting with FNB UP-Tuks, writes Bronwein Bain. The five-time champions, who outscored their opponents by 11 tries to four, appear to be hitting their straps at the right time of the tournament. It took FNB Maties less than two minutes to cross Shimlas’ line when scrumhalf Lian du Toit scored a converted point-of-origin try. FNB Shimlas flank Thabo Ndimande was sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes, and FNB Maties scored 16 points in his absence through hooker JJ Kotze and winger Marcqiewn Titus to go 25-0 up. Kotze then finished off a great team effort to score his second try, this one a seven-pointer. FNB UFS Shimlas finally got on the scoreboard through centre Danco Burger but FNB Maties replacement back Juan Mostert scored their fifth try on the stroke of half-time to make it 39-5. The maroon machine started the second half in the same fashion as the first when lock Dylan de Leeuw scored a point-of-origin try, and flank Gift Dlamini then took them beyond the 50-point mark. FNB UFS Shimlas did well to score three tries in the final 22 minutes of the match through replacement wing Shima Molepo, replacement scrumhalf Rewan Kruger and flyhalf JP Duvenage. But FNB Maties finished strongly, scoring three tries in the last 10 minutes, with replacement hooker HJ Luus grabbing a brace and centre Waqar Solaan also dotting down. FNB Player That Rocks: Lian du Toit (FNB Maties) FNB Maties – Tries: Lian du Toit (2x7), JJ Kotze (1x5, 1x7), Marcqiewn Titus (1x7), Juan Mostert, Dylan de Leeuw (1x7), Gift Dlamini, HJ Luus (2), Waqar Solaan. Conversions: Christopher Schreuder (8). FNB UFS Shimlas – Tries: Danco Burger, Rewan Kruger, Shima Molepo (1x7), JP Duvenage. Conversion: Duvenage. FNB UP-TUKS 40 (19) FNB CUT IXIAS 41 (27) FNB UP-Tuks centre Zandré Kruger missed an 83rd-minute conversion as FNB CUT claimed a one-point win at Loftus Versfeld to keep their semi-final hopes alive, writes Bronwen Bain. Leading 41-33, FNB CUT looked set to run down the clock, only to concede a turnover with seconds remaining. FNB UP-Tuks then did brilliantly to take the ball through 15-plus phases before replacement back Tharquinn Manuel scored a point-of-origin try two minutes into stoppage time. However, the conversion – from a relatively difficult angle considering the pressure situation – went wide, much to FNB CUT’s delight. The Ixias will now face the FNB NWU Eagles on Tuesday in a rescheduled Round 7 match that will effectively be a quarter-final. FNB CUT took an early 8-0 lead in this match when a penalty from flyhalf Charles Williams was followed by the first of four maul tries to hooker Janus Venter. The Ixias forwards asserted their dominance once again when captain Luvoyo Ndevu scored and Williams' conversion made it 15-0. FNB UP-Tuks got back into the game when centre Louritz van der Schyff powered over for a try, and hooker André van der Merwe added another to reduce the deficit to three. FNB UP-Tuks captain Eduan Lubbe put his team back into the lead, only for Venter to complete his hat-trick. Fullback Cohen Jasper converted the hooker’s third to make it 27-19 at half-time. Van der Merwe and flank Llewellyn Classen were both yellow-carded for cynical infringements late in the first half and they were still off the field when Jasper finished off a point-of-origin try for the Ixias early in the second. Kruger’s converted try gave FNB UP-Tuks hope at 41-24 and when they were awarded a penalty try in the 71st minute, after Williams deliberately knocked the ball on, they were right back in the game. Williams was yellow-carded and flank Ulrich Stander joined him in the sin bin in the 77th minute, but while 13-man FNB CUT did eventually concede a try, they were able to start celebrating when the conversion went wide. FNB Player That Rocks: Xander Botha (FNB CUT) FNB UP-Tuks – Tries: Louritz van der Schyff, André van der Merwe, Eduan Lubbe, Zandré Kruger, penalty try, Tharquinn Manuel (1x7). Conversions: Jaylen James (3). FNB CUT Ixias – Tries: Janus Venter (4), Luvoyo Ndevu, Cohen Jasper (1x7). Conversions: Charles Williams, Jasper (2). Penalty: Williams. 2021 FNB Varsity Cup teams (Round 9) The league stage of the FNB Varsity Cup will conclude on Tuesday, with two rescheduled Round 7 matches: FNB UJ vs FNB Wits (14:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) FNB CUT Ixias vs FNB NWU Eagles (16:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) The FNB Varsity Cup semi-finals are scheduled to take place at Tuks Stadium on Friday, 28 May, followed by the final on Monday, 31 May. FNB Varsity Cup fixtures and logs DOWNLOAD THE NEW FNB VARSITY CUP APP! App Store Google Play

FNB Varsity Cup All the lineups for Sunday's FNB Varsity Cup matches in Pretoria. FNB UCT IKEYS vs FNB MADIBAZ (14:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) FNB UCT Ikeys – 15 Duran Koevort, 14 Ntokozo Makhaza, 13 Sibabalwe Mzanywa, 12 Michael Brink, 11 Rihaz Fredericks, 10 David Hayes, 9 Brandon Salomo, 8 Christian Stehlik, 7 Byron Cranswick, 6 Keagan Blanckenberg, 5 Byron Bowes (c), 4 Matthew Grobler, 3 Jovan Bekker, 2 Josh van Vuuren, 1 Ashwyn Adams. Subs: 16 Devon Arendse, 17 Seth Christian, 18 Luthando Woji, 19 Mika Schubert, 20 Liam Greenhalgh, 21 Kyle Bowman, 22 Le Roux Malan, 23 James Tedder. FNB Madibaz – 15 Tiaan Swanepoel, 14 Khakalethu Bophi, 13 Aya Oliphant, 12 Tiaan Schutte, 11 Njabulo Toni, 10 Warrick Day, 9 Yomelela Keswa, 8 Mihlali Mosi, 7 Cameron Cato, 6 Arnouw Nel, 5 Hardus van Eeden, 4 Laken Gray, 3 Le-Kleu Stokes, 2 Tembekile Boltina (c), 1 Robert Lyons. Subs: 16 Corné Slabbert, 17 Jaco van der Walt, 18 Siyamthanda Jwacu, 19 André Gerber, 20 Chadwyn November, 21 Kholiwe Konza, 22 Tiaan Gerber. Note: Madibaz will not have a player No 23 FNB UJ vs FNB NWU EAGLES (15:00, Loftus Versfeld, SuperSport Rugby channel 211) FNB UJ – 15 Nqubeko Mkwanazi, 14 Nkondlo Radebe, 13 Tyreeq February, 12 Indiphile Tyeda, 11 Prince Nkabinde, 10 Jonathan Viljoen, 9 Mpho Kubheka, 8 Franco Schutte, 7 Peter-John Steenkamp, 6 Siyabonga Masuku, 5 Tyler Brown, 4 Lunga Ncube (c), 3 Chergin Fillies, 2 Pierre Rabie, 1 Kayden Kiewit. Subs: 16 Lehlohonolo Mphuthi, 17 Nkosikhona Masuku, 18 Herman Agenbag, 19 Philip Apea-Adu, 20 Tristan Dullisear, 21 Eduan Smit, 22 Jurich Claasens, 23 Boldwin Hansen. FNB NWU Eagles – 15 Pienaar van Niekerk, 14 Sylvester Hassien, 13 Meyer Kriel, 12 Marco Donges (c), 11 Charl Pretorius, 10 Nivan Petersen, 9 Caleb Louw, 8 André Fouché, 7 Sphephelo Mabuza, 6 Chris Vermaak, 5 George van der Westhuizen, 4 Malembe Mpofu, 3 Sampie Swiegers, 2 Gustav du Rand, 1 Komape Moloto. Subs: 16 Vernon Paulo, 17 Ruben du Plessis, 18 Arno Gustafson, 19 Wihan Nel, 20 Jeandré Leonard, 21 Didintle Sekati, 22 Bernu Engelbrecht, 23 Keano Windvogel. WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 8) FNB WITS vs FNB UWC (16:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) FNB Wits – 15 Setshaba Mokoena, 14 Sthsaba Mqhatu, 13 Jimmy Mpailane, 12 Yanga Hlalu, 11 Gerswin Mouton, 10 Keagan Lailvaux, 9 Hlumelo Ndudula, 8 Lindokuhle Ncusane, 7 Alexander Skudder, 6 Mark Snyman, 5 William Thomson, 4 Junior White, 3 Ebot Buma, 2 Dameon Venter (c), 1 Jason Cloete. Subs: 16 Mulalo Sadiki, 17 Bhekisa Shongwe, 18 Keagan Glade, 19 Kyle van Eyssen, 20 Golden Msipha, 21 Dylan Meyer, 22 Liyema Matyolweni, 23 Siyabonga Xulu. FNB UWC – 15 Gilroy Lee Philander, 14 André Manuel, 13 Aydon Topley, 12 Lyle Hendricks, 11 Lundi Msenge, 10 Ethan Diston, 9 Branden de Kock, 8 Tinotenda Mavesere, 7 Jaen-Louis de Lange, 6 Romuald Nsombamanya, 5 Pieter-Steyl Swanepoel (c), 4 Bronlee Mouries, 3 Justin Theys, 2 Jason Alexander, 1 Luvo Bazi. Subs: 16 Johan Lamprecht, 17 Jacques van Zyl, 18 Liam Tattersal, 19 Godfrey Muzanargwo, 20 Matthew Stephens, 21 Conwill Conradie, 22 Keanan Boonzaaier, 23 Riaan van der Merwe. FNB UFS SHIMLAS vs FNB MATIES (17:00, Loftus Versfeld, SuperSport Rugby channel 211) FNB UFS Shimlas – 15 Luyanda Mkhize, 14 Francois Agenbag, 13 Shayne Bolton, 12 Danco Burger, 11 Aya Matroos, 10 JP Duvenage (c), 9 Chadd Adams, 8 Ruwald van der Merwe, 7 Kamohelo Chabana, 6 Thabo Ndimande, 5 Thabang Mahlasi, 4 Pierre Uys, 3 JW Meades, 2 Wihan Marais, 1 Johan Schutte. Subs: 16 William Moffat, 17 Henty Beukes, 18 Tshepo Nchabeng, 19 Bakkies Rossouw, 20 Gustav Meyer, 21 Rewan Kruger, 22 Shima Molepo, 23 Luthando Buthelezi. FNB Maties – 15 Nevaldo Fleurs, 14 Marcqiewn Titus, 13 David Brits (c), 12 Waqar Solaan, 11 Sibabalwe Xamlashe, 10 Christopher Schreuder, 9 Lian du Toit, 8 Johan Strauss, 7 Jesse Johnson, 6 Gift Dlamini, 5 Marco van Rhyn, 4 Dylan de Leeuw, 3 James Combrinck, 2 JJ Kotze, 1 Leon Lyons. Subs: 16 HJ Luus, 17 Dian Bleuler, 18 Duncan du Buisson, 19 Jaco Nel, 20 Mitchell Carstens, 21 Dylan 'Bobby' Alexander, 22 Juan Mostert, 23 Taigh Schoor. WATCH: FNB Impact Player (Round 8) FNB UP-TUKS vs FNB CUT IXIAS (19:00, Loftus Versfeld, SuperSport Rugby channel 211) FNB UP-Tuks – 15 Ambesa Zenzile, 14 Ciaran Dayaram, 13 Zandré Kruger, 12 Louritz van der Schyff, 11 Lincoln Adams, 10 Jaylen James, 9 Ruhan Viviers, 8 Eduan Lubbe (c), 7 Mihlali Stamper, 6 Llewellyn Classen, 5 Dawid Meiring, 4 Johannes Mare, 3 Francois Klopper, 2 André van der Merwe, 1 Cebolenkosi Dlamini. Subs: 16 Werner Fourie, 17 Dewald Donald, 18 Etienne Janeke, 19 Thomas Meyer, 20 Hanru Sirgel, 21 Clyde Lewis, 22 Tharquinn Manuel, 23 Enrique Oranje. FNB CUT Ixias – 15 Cohen Jasper, 14 Christiaan Nel, 13 Niell Stannard, 12 Heino Bezuidenhout, 11 Emilio Adonis, 10 Charles Williams, 9 Xander Botha, 8 Ulrich Stander, 7 Luvuyo Ndevu (c), 6 Andile Mfazwe, 5 Derik Pretorius, 4 Brendon Fortuin, 3 Janu Botha, 2 Janus Venter, 1 Thabiso Msiza. Subs: 16 Wandré Nortjé, 17 Eddie Davids, 18 Tebogo Masemola, 19 Matthew Sekele, 20 Francois Bester, 21 Zinedine Booysen, 22 Tsepo Malumane, 23 Jandré de Beer. FNB Varsity Cup fixtures and logs DOWNLOAD THE NEW FNB VARSITY CUP APP! App Store Google Play

FNB Varsity Cup VarsityCup.co.za content contributors Dan Lombard and Bronwen Bain select the standout players from Thursday's matches at the University of Pretoria. JP DUVENAGE (FNB SHIMLAS) The FNB Shimlas flyhalf and captain scored 17 points – via a point-of-origin try and five conversions – against FNB Wits to guide his team to their second win of the tournament. Stratus stats Tries: 1 Conversions: 5/6 Ball carries: 8 Metres run: 105 Metres gained: 44 Tackles: 11/11 General play kicks: 9 WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 8) ADRIAAN VAN DER BANK (FNB MATIES) Pulling the strings with precision that could rival violinists, the FNB Maties flyhalf ensured that quality ball was feed to the backs during his 55-minute stint against FNB UJ. He also kicked well out of hand and slotted two conversions. Stratus stats Ball carries: 5 Metres run: 69 Metres gained: 44 Conversions: 2/4 General kicks: 5 HIGHLIGHTS: FNB Maties vs FNB Madibaz SANGO XAMLASHE (FNB UP-TUKS) The FNB UP-Tuks midfielder may have only played 62 minutes of their match against the FNB Madibaz, but he put on a stellar performance from the word go. The captain carried the ball to the line well and his quick thinking earned him two tries, including a seven-pointer. Stratus stats Tries: 2 Ball carries: 6 Metres run: 99 Metres gained: 41 Tackles: 5/5 BRANDEN DE KOCK (FNB UWC) The diminutive scrumhalf was destructive against FNB CUT, to say the least, always keeping the defence honest while laying the pipe needed for Udubs to stick up their hands for semi-final contention. Stratus stats Tries: 1 Points: 15 Ball carries: 5 Metres run: 48 Metres gained: 14 Line breaks: 2 Tackles: 3/3 HIGHLIGHTS: FNB UWC vs FNB CUT Ixias JANDRÉ DE BEER (FNB NWU EAGLES) The flanker was a pest in the attic for the Eagles, bagging a brace during his bountiful 85 minutes on the pitch and making all eight of his tackles. Ultimately his efforts were not enough for a win against FNB UCT, but certainly assisted in securing two crucial bonus points. Stratus stats Tries: 2 Ball carries: 8 Metres run: 180 Metres gained: 23 Tackles: 8/8 HIGHLIGHTS: FNB NWU Eagles vs FNB UCT Ikeys Photos: Christiaan Kotze/Catherine Kotze/Varsity Cup

FNB Varsity Cup FNB Madibaz No 8 Mihlali Mosi aims to serve the Cheetahs with distinction when he joins them after the FNB Varsity Cup. The 25-year-old recently signed a short-term contract with the Bloemfontein-based union and is set to make his senior provincial debut in the Currie Cup Premier Division. Mosi is not only a talented rugby player but intelligent too. The former FNB WSU player earned a distinction for his BTech Internal Auditing, before switching tertiary institutions to chase a PGDip in Employment Relationship Management at Nelson Mandela University. It's an incredible feat considering that many student-athletes struggle to find the balance between excelling in their code and in the lecture hall. The former Muir College scholar, who represented Eastern Province at the U18 Academy Week in 2014, says he would not have come close to reaching his current heights without his strong support base. "Mom and Dad are always the first and most important people in my life; they form the root of my very self," he tells VarsityCup.co.za. "Making them proud is first and foremost. "Another important member of my team is Star of Hope coach Vuyo Nompondo, who backed me from day one and believed in me more than I did. His guidance and knowledge forged a love for rugby that runs deep inside me." Mosi's performances in his final season of the FNB Varsity Cup (he has reached the tournament age limit) impressed Cheetahs coach Hawies Fourie. “Mihlali’s ball-carrying ability is exceptional," Fourie told VarsityCup.co.za recently. "He’s really explosive with ball in hand and his lineout work is excellent. He has a few things to work on, but he has a lot of attributes that will fit in with the way we play." When asked about his goals at the Cheetahs, Mosi flashes a grin before returning to his more serious resting face. "Simply put, I want to do enough to extend my contract [which runs until the end of October]. Playing professional rugby is a dream I've held onto since I was a boy. Like my studies, I intend to serve with distinction and make a difference in the famous orange jersey." – Mosi will make his final appearance for FNB Madibaz in Sunday's match against FNB UCT Ikeys (14:00, DStv Now channel 245).

FNB Varsity Cup The times and venues for Sunday’s much-anticipated FNB Varsity Cup Round 9 matches have been confirmed. With the fourth-placed FNB CUT Ixias just one point ahead of the FNB NWU Eagles and two ahead of FNB UWC on the FNB Varsity Cup log, there will be plenty to play for as the tournament reaches its business end. In the two matches at the Tuks B-Field, FNB UCT Ikeys will be looking to secure top spot on the log with victory against the winless FNB Madibaz, while FNB UWC simply have to beat FNB Wits to stay in semi-final contention. At Loftus Versfeld Stadium, the FNB NWU Eagles can take a big step towards the semi-finals with a win against FNB UJ, while FNB UFS Shimlas face a tough test against third-placed FNB Maties. In the final fixture of the day, second-placed FNB UP-Tuks will take on FNB CUT in a match that will have a significant impact on the final standings. Sunday’s fixtures: FNB UCT Ikeys vs FNB Madibaz (14:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) FNB UJ vs FNB NWU Eagles (15:00, Loftus Versfeld, SuperSport Rugby channel 211) FNB Wits vs FNB UWC (16:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) FNB UFS Shimlas vs FNB Maties (17:00, Loftus Versfeld, SuperSport Rugby channel 211) FNB UP-Tuks vs FNB CUT Ixias (19:00, Loftus Versfeld, SuperSport Rugby channel 211) WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 8) The league stage of the FNB Varsity Cup will conclude on Tuesday, with two rescheduled Round 7 matches: FNB UJ vs FNB Wits (14:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) FNB CUT Ixias vs FNB NWU Eagles (16:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) The FNB Varsity Cup semi-finals are scheduled to take place at Tuks Stadium on Friday, 28 May, followed by the final on Monday, 31 May. FNB Varsity Cup fixtures and logs DOWNLOAD THE NEW FNB VARSITY CUP APP! App Store Google Play

FNB Varsity Cup All 12 FNB Varsity Cup-winning teams will feature on the fifth Changing Lives banner at Tuks Stadium from Thursday. The FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield have been life-changing tournaments for rugby players, coaches, referees, fans and broadcasters. With this year's tournaments being played without fans in a bio-secure bubble at the University of Pretoria, Varsity Cup has used Tuks Stadium as a canvas to showcase those whose lives were changed by Rugby That Rocks. The first banner, which was displayed during the first FNB Varsity Cup bubble, featured 20 of the 48 FNB Varsity Cup players who have gone on to represent the Springboks. The second banner, for the first four rounds of the FNB Varsity Shield, celebrated FNB Varsity Cup and Shield success stories, while the Pink Shorts campaign was the focus of the third banner during Rounds 4-6 of the FNB Varsity Cup. The fourth banner, displayed during Rounds 4-7 and the final of the FNB Varsity Shield, featured all the teams that had won the Shield from 2011 to 2019. And now, the fifth – and final – banner puts all the FNB Varsity Cup-winning teams since the tournament’s inception in 2008 in the spotlight. They are: FNB Maties (five titles – 2008, 2009, 2010, 2018, 2019) FNB UP-Tuks (three titles – 2012, 2013, 2017) FNB UCT Ikeys (two titles – 2011, 2014) FNB UFS Shimlas (one title – 2015) FNB NWU (one title – 2016) The Varsity Cup website is also producing a series of articles throughout the FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield on those whose lives were never the same again after experiencing Rugby That Rocks. Those featured recently include Test referee Rasta Rasivhenge, FNB Varsity Cup-winning coaches Jonathan Mokuena and John Dobson, and former FNB Madibaz loose forward Tim Agaba, who is currently playing for the Bulls. FNB Varsity Cup final results: 2008: FNB Maties 16 FNB UCT Ikeys 10 2009: FNB Maties 11 FNB NWU-Pukke 6 2010: FNB Maties 17 FNB UCT Ikeys 14 2011: FNB UCT Ikeys 26 FNB UP-Tuks 16 2012: FNB UP-Tuks 29 FNB Maties 21 2013: FNB UP-Tuks 44 FNB Maties 5 2014: FNB UCT Ikeys 39 FNB NWU-Pukke 33 2015: FNB UFS Shimlas 63 FNB NWU-Pukke 33 2016: FNB NWU-Pukke 7 FNB Maties 6 2017: FNB UP-Tuks 28 FNB Maties 21 2018: FNB Maties 40 FNB NWU-Pukke 7 2019: FNB Maties 34 FNB UP-Tuks 12

FNB Varsity Cup All the lineups for Thursday's FNB Varsity Cup matches at the University of Pretoria. FNB WITS vs FNB UFS SHIMLAS (14:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) FNB Wits – 15 Jimmy Mpailane, 14 Lwazi Monakali, 13 Yanga Hlalu, 12 Matthew Mcdonald, 11 Sthsaba Mqhatu, 10 Keagan Lailvaux, 9 Hlumelo Ndudula, 8 Phillip Krause, 7 Golden Msipha, 6 Mark Snyman, 5 William Thomson, 4 Junior White, 3 Keagan Glade, 2 Dameon Venter (c), 1 Banele Mthenjane. Subs: 16 Mulalo Sadiki, 17 Jason Cloete, 18 Ebot Buma, 19 Kyle van Eyssen, 20 Lindokuhle Ncusane, 21 Dylan Meyer, 22 Setshaba Mokoena, 23 Siyabonga Xulu. FNB UFS Shimlas – 15 Luyanda Mkhize, 14 Francois Agenbag, 13 Shayne Bolton, 12 Danco Burger, 11 Aya Matroos, 10 JP Duvenage (c), 9 Chadd Adams, 8 Gustav Meyer, 7 Kamo Chabana, 6 Thabo Ndimande, 5 Pierre Uys, 4 Uzile Tele, 3 JW Meades, 2 Wihan Marais, 1 Johan Schutte. Subs: 16 William Moffat, 17 Henty Beukes, 18 Tshepo Nchabeng, 19 Shine Msipha, 20 Bakkies Rossouw, 21 Rewan Kruger, 22 Ethan Wentzel, 23 Luthando Buthelezi. READ: Five FNB Varsity Cup players who impressed (Round 7) FNB MATIES vs FNB UJ (15:00, Tuks Stadium, SuperSport Rugby channel 211) FNB Maties – 15 Juan Mostert, 14 Munier Hartzenberg, 13 David Brits (c), 12 Taigh Schoor, 11 Sibabalwe Xamlashe, 10 Adriaan van der Bank, 9 Thomas Bursey, 8 Ben-Jason Dixon, 7 Thys Kitshoff, 6 Mitchell Carstens, 5 Albert Liebenberg, 4 Dylan de Leeuw, 3 Matimu Manganyi, 2 HJ Luus, 1 Dian Bleuler. Subs: 16 André-Hugo Venter, 17 Leon Lyons, 18 Duncan du Buisson, 19 Simon Miller, 20 Johan Strauss, 21 Dylan 'Bobby' Alexander, 22 Waqar Solaan, 23 Nevaldo Fleurs. FNB UJ – 15 Boldwin Hansen, 14 Prince Nkabinde, 13 Nkondlo Radebe, 12 Indiphile Tyeda, 11 Nqubeko Mkwanazi, 10 Jurich Claasens, 9 Eduan Smit, 8 Kwagga van Niekerk (c), 7 Peter-John Steenkamp, 6 Kelvin Kanenungo, 5 Brendon Pawson, 4 Lunga Ncube, 3 Chergin Fillies, 2 Darnell Osuagwu, 1 Kayden Kiewit. Subs: 16 Pierre Rabie, 17 Nkosikhona Masuku, 18 Coenrad Vrey, 19 Philip Apea-Adu, 20 Franco Schutte, 21 Mpho Kubheka, 22 Jonathan Viljoen, 23 Tyreeq February. READ: Top point- and try-scorers in FNB Varsity Cup FNB MADIBAZ vs FNB UP-TUKS (16:00, Tuks B-Field, DStv Now channel 245) FNB Madibaz – 15 Tiaan Swanepoel, 14 Khakalethu Bophi, 13 Aya Oliphant, 12 Stephan Botes, 11 Njabulo Toni, 10 Tiaan Schutte, 9 Yomelela Keswa, 8 Mihlali Mosi, 7 Jaco van der Walt, 6 Arnouw Nel, 5 Dylan Halgreen, 4 Luyolo Dapula (c), 3 Le-Kleu Stokes, 2 Tembekile Boltina, 1 Robert Lyons. Subs: 16 Corné Slabbert, 17 Jordan Caraher, 18 Laken Gray, 19 Siyamthanda Jwacu, 20 André Gerber, 21 Warrick Day, 22 Tiaan Gerber, 23 Likhona Dywili. FNB UP-Tuks – 15 Zander du Plessis, 14 Stefan Coetzee, 13 Sango Xamlashe (c), 12 Wian van Niekerk, 11 Tharquinn Manuel, 10 David Coetzer, 9 Clyde Lewis, 8 Eduan Lubbe, 7 Hanru Sirgel, 6 Stephan Smit, 5 Thomas Meyer, 4 Mihlali Stamper, 3 Damien Swartz, 2 Werner Fourie, 1 Cebolenkosi Dlamini. Subs: 16 Llewellyn Classen, 17 André van der Merwe, 18 Etienne Janeke, 19 Dawid Meiring, 20 Johannes Mare, 21 Jaylen James, 22 Enrique Oranje, 23 Ambesa Zenzile. WATCH: FNB Impact Player (Round 7) FNB UWC vs FNB CUT IXIAS (17:00, Tuks Stadium, SuperSport Rugby channel 211) FNB UWC – 15 Ethan Diston, 14 Peter Williams, 13 Aydon Topley, 12 Lyle Hendricks, 11 Lundi Msenge, 10 Johannes van Biljon, 9 Branden de Kock, 8 Tinotenda Mavesere, 7 Bradman Grove, 6 Romuald Nsombamanya, 5 Pieter-Steyl Swanepoel (c), 4 Jaen-Louis de Lange, 3 Justin Theys, 2 Jason Alexander, 1 Ebrahiem Davids. Subs: 16 Mauritz Swart, 17 Riaan van der Merwe, 18 Bronlee Mouries, 19 Johan Lamprecht, 20 Conwill Conradie, 21 Hedley Hadlow, 22 André Manuel, 23 Liam Tattersal. FNB CUT Ixias – 15 Cohen Jasper, 14 Christiaan Nel, 13 Niell Stannard, 12 Heino Bezuidenhout, 11 Ricoman Titus, 10 Charles Williams, 9 Zinedine Booysen, 8 Luvuyo Ndevu (c), 7 Bennett Nortjé, 6 Johannes Terblanche, 5 Derik Pretorius, 4 Brendon Fortuin, 3 Janu Botha, 2 Janus Venter, 1 Eddie Davids. Subs: 16 Wandré Nortjé, 17 Thabiso Msiza, 18 Raynard Esterhuizen, 19 Matthew Sekele, 20 Francois Bester, 21 Jandré de Beer, 22 Emilio Adonis, 23 Ulrich Stander. WATCH: Steers Top 6 Tries (Round 7) FNB NWU EAGLES vs FNB UCT IKEYS (19:00, Tuks Stadium, SuperSport Rugby channel 211) FNB NWU Eagles – 15 Shane van Rooyen, 14 Sylvester Hassien, 13 Lincoln Daniels (c), 12 Marco Donges, 11 Charl Pretorius, 10 Nivan Petersen, 9 Riaan Genis, 8 Ruben Dreyer, 7 Jandré de Beer, 6 André Fouché, 5 Jeandré Leonard, 4 Malembe Mpofu, 3 Nelius Theron, 2 Vernon Paulo, 1 Komape Moloto. Subs: 16 Gustav du Rand, 17 Ruben du Plessis, 18 Sampie Swiegers, 19 Wihan Nel, 20 George van der Westhuizen, 21 Caleb Louw, 22 Kagiso Woodbridge, 23 Keano Windvogel. FNB UCT Ikeys – 15 James Tedder, 14 Rihaz Fredericks, 13 Evardi Boshoff, 12 Le Roux Malan, 11 Rethabile Louw, 10 David Hayes, 9 William Rose, 8 Taariq Kruger, 7 Neil Otto, 6 Liam Greenhalgh (c), 5 Gary Porter, 4 Connor Evans, 3 Robert Hunt, 2 Devon Arendse, 1 Luthando Woji. Subs: 16 Josh van Vuuren, 17 Seth Christian, 18 Jovan Bekker, 19 Byron Bowes, 20 Christian Stehlik, 21 Brandon Salomo, 22 Sibabalwe Mzanywa, 23 Athi Gazi. Fixtures and logs

FNB Varsity Cup FNB UWC blew the FNB Varsity Cup semi-final race wide open with a 60-19 thrashing of FNB CUT, while there were also Round 8 wins for FNB UFS Shimlas, FNB Maties, FNB UP-Tuks and FNB UCT on Thursday. FNB WITS 34 (19) FNB UFS SHIMLAS 42 (21) FNB UFS Shimlas scored six tries in a hard-fought win against FNB Wits at the Tuks B-Field, writes Bronwen Bain. Pote Human’s men came into this match with confidence after an impressive performance against FNB UP-Tuks on Monday, while FNB Wits were playing their first game in the third bio-bubble. Flyhalf Keagan Lailvaux slotted an early penalty for FNB Wits, but it was FNB Shimlas who scored the first try through lock Uzile Tele in the 25th minute before eighthman Gustav Meyer was yellow-carded for cynical play. FNB Wits reclaimed the lead when winger Lwazi Monkali scored a converted point-of-origin try to take them 12-7 up. But it was FNB UFS Shimlas who went into half-time 21-19 ahead thanks to tries from prop Johan Schutte and flank Thabo Ndimande either side of winger Sthsaba Mqhatu’s effort for FNB Wits. Ndabinde secured his brace early in the second half, before FNB Wits flank Mark Snyman powered his way over the tryline to make it a one-point game. Flyhalf JP Duvenage's self-converted point-of-origin try put FNB UFS Shimlas ahead 37-27 with 10 minutes remaining. FNB Wits got themselves back in the fight when hooker Dameon Venter mauled his way over the whitewash, but his opposite number William Moffat sealed the bonus-point win for FNB UFS Shimlas when he scored in the 77th minute. FNB Player That Rocks: Kamo Chabana (FNB Shimlas) FNB Wits – Tries: Lwazi Monakali (1x7), Sthsaba Mqhatu, Mark Snyman, Dameon Venter. Conversions: Keagan Lailvaux (3). Penalties: Lailvaux (2). FNB UFS Shimlas – Tries: Uzile Tele, Johan Schutte, Thabo Ndabinde (2), JP Duvenage (1x7), William Moffat. Conversions: JP Duvenage (5). FNB MATIES 49 (35) FNB UJ 14 (0) FNB Maties fed off the ill-discipline of FNB UJ to run in seven tries at Tuks Stadium as the business end of the competition draws near, writes Dan Lombard. The five log points keep the men from Stellenbosch in third place on the log. The opening 10 minutes was akin to a wrestling match with neither side being able to convert possession into points while crashing into each other at a rate of knots. It would take a moment of foul play to awaken the full might of the Maroon Machine as FNB UJ fullback Boldwin Hansen’s high tackle on wing Munier Hartzenberg resulted in a penalty try, the first in 2021 that also counted as a point-of-origin try. Hansen served 10 minutes in the bin. FNB Maties needed little motivation to capitalise on the numerical advantage and secured their bonus-point try by the 21st minute as Hartzenberg crossed, before his fellow wing Siba Xamlashe touched down to cap off a well-earned point-of-origin try. Prop Dian Bleuler was credited with wrapping up the bonus point and although flyhalf Adriaan van der Bank missed the extras, he did convert both tries by the wings to inflate the scoreline to 30-0. A period of frustration followed for the five-time champions but they did strike just before half-time when hooker HJ Luus profited off a strong drive. It was sparse pickings when the match resumed, though, as it took FNB Maties 16 minutes to extend their lead, with inside centre Taigh Schoor dotting down a converted try, before replacement hooker André-Hugo Venter was shown a yellow. The Orange Army finally etched their name on the scoreboard as replacement prop Nkosikhona Masuku powered over like an angry elephant and flyhalf Jurich Claasens’ conversion reduced the lead to the half-time deficit. However, FNB UJ then lost No 8 and captain Kwagga van Niekerk and flank Kelvin Kanekungo to yellow cards. Down to 13 men, one would expect FNB UJ to shore up on defence but they were able to score a converted point-of-origin try to replacement loose forward Franco Schutte. FNB UJ’s ill-discipline continued when replacement prop Coenrad Very was red-carded for a swinging arm, before FNB Maties shut proceedings down with a try courtesy of Venter. FNB Player That Rocks: Munier Hartzenberg (FNB Maties) FNB Maties – Tries: Penalty try (1x9), Munier Hartzenberg, Siba Xamlashe (1x7), Dian Bleuler, HJ Luus, Taigh Schoor, André-Hugo Venter. Conversions: Adriaan van der Bank (2), Juan Mostert (2). FNB UJ – Tries: Nkosikhona Masuku, Franco Schutte (1x7). Conversion: Jurich Claasens. FNB MATIES 49 (35) FNB UJ 14 (0) FNB Maties fed off the ill-discipline of FNB UJ to run in seven tries at Tuks Stadium as the business end of the competition draws near, writes Dan Lombard. The five log points keep the men from Stellenbosch in third place on the log. The opening 10 minutes was akin to a wrestling match with neither side being able to convert possession into points while crashing into each other at a rate of knots. It would take a moment of foul play to awaken the full might of the Maroon Machine as FNB UJ fullback Boldwin Hansen’s high tackle on wing Munier Hartzenberg resulted in a penalty try, the first in 2021 that also counted as a point-of-origin try. Hansen served 10 minutes in the bin. FNB Maties needed little motivation to capitalise on the numerical advantage and secured their bonus-point try by the 21st minute as Hartzenberg crossed, before his fellow wing Siba Xamlashe touched down to cap off a well-earned point-of-origin try. Prop Dian Bleuler was credited with wrapping up the bonus point and although flyhalf Adriaan van der Bank missed the extras, he did convert both tries by the wings to inflate the scoreline to 30-0. A period of frustration followed for the five-time champions but they did strike just before half-time when hooker HJ Luus profited off a strong drive. It was sparse pickings when the match resumed, though, as it took FNB Maties 16 minutes to extend their lead, with inside centre Taigh Schoor dotting down a converted try, before replacement hooker André-Hugo Venter was shown a yellow. The Orange Army finally etched their name on the scoreboard as replacement prop Nkosikhona Masuku powered over like an angry elephant and flyhalf Jurich Claasens’ conversion reduced the lead to the half-time deficit. However, FNB UJ then lost No 8 and captain Kwagga van Niekerk and flank Kelvin Kanekungo to yellow cards. Down to 13 men, one would expect FNB UJ to shore up on defence but they were able to score a converted point-of-origin try to replacement loose forward Franco Schutte. FNB UJ’s ill-discipline continued when replacement prop Coenrad Very was red-carded for a swinging arm, before FNB Maties shut proceedings down with a try courtesy of Venter. FNB Player That Rocks: Munier Hartzenberg (FNB Maties) FNB Maties – Tries: Penalty try (1x9), Munier Hartzenberg, Siba Xamlashe (1x7), Dian Bleuler, HJ Luus, Taigh Schoor, André-Hugo Venter. Conversions: Adriaan van der Bank (2), Juan Mostert (2). FNB UJ – Tries: Nkosikhona Masuku, Franco Schutte (1x7). Conversion: Jurich Claasens. FNB UWC 60 (14) FNB CUT IXIAS 19 (19) FNB UWC scored eight converted tries in a ruthless showing against FNB CUT at Tuks Stadium, writes Dan Lombard. Udubs’ full house of points ensures a dramatic end to fill the fourth spot in the semi-final race especially considering they will be aiming to do the same against FNB Wits come Sunday. They are now just two log points behind FNB CUT, who have a game in hand. An enthralling first stanza was packed with classy running lines and throwing caution to the wind as two of the FNB Varsity Cup's most exciting attacking teams collided. First up was hooker Janus Venter for the Ixias, who barrelled his way over to score a converted try, before FNB UWC hit back with two tries, neatly sandwiched like a quality BLT, via hooker Jason Alexander and flank Tinotenda Mavesere. Ixias wing Ricoman Titus rounded off the delicious analogy as his converted try levelled the scores, and his charges pulled in front when fullback and Cheetahs-bound Cohen Jasper dotted down in the 35th minute to ensure the half-time break was a positive one for the Bloemfontein outfit. The second half began with a sizzling point-of-origin try to FNB UWC that started with a change in possession before silky hands and snappy running was finished off by outside centre Aydon Topley. Scrumhalf Branden de Kock followed up with a converted five-pointer of his own two minutes later. FNB UWC shifted into juggernaut after the second strategy break as Alexander collected his brace from close range and replacement lock Bronlee Mouries recorded try No 6. The men from the Cape just would not let up on attack, scoring twice in the final five minutes. Replacement scrumhalf Conwill Conradie's clever back pass was returned to him as he ran in untouched and Topley then cashed in his brace as the sun set on a mesmerising display of rugby. FNB Player That Rocks: Jason Alexander (FNB UWC) FNB UWC – Tries: Jason Alexander (2), Tinotenda Mavesere, Aydon Topley (1x7, 1x5), Branden de Kock (1x7), Bronlee Mouries, Conwill Conradie. Conversions: De Kock (6), Topley (2). FNB CUT Ixias – Tries: Janus Venter, Ricoman Titus, Cohen Jasper. Conversions: Charles Williams (2). FNB NWU EAGLES 36 (10) FNB UCT IKEYS 42 (22) FNB UCT resisted a second-half surge by FNB NWU to lock up a vital victory at Tuks Stadium, writes Dan Lombard. The five-point haul took the Ikey Tigers back to the top of the log after FNB UP-Tuks had briefly occupied the position earlier in the day, while the Eagles’ two bonus points see them finish Round 8 in fifth position, one point behind FNB CUT and one ahead of FNB UWC. FNB NWU celebrated the life of 2018 captain Tiaan Bezuidenhout, who passed away in a tragic car accident earlier this month, by retiring the No 8 jersey for this match. Ruben Dreyer wore the No 24 jumper instead as a nod towards the life and times of a very special player to the NWU family. The Ikey Tigers, undoubtedly the frontrunners to lift the trophy on 31 May, flexed their prowess as fullback James Tedder scored a converted point-of-origin try and slotted a penalty goal to rack up a healthy lead within the first 15 minutes. Wing Rethabile Louw followed suit with strong try before the Eagles opened their account through flank Jandré de Beer. Tedder would land another penalty but FNB NWU prop Komape Moloto barged over to reduce the deficit to 22-10 at half-time. The Ikeys Express took just four minutes to score when the match resumed with lock Connor Evans dotting down, before FNB NWU replacement prop Sampie Swiegers pulled back a try that was converted by flyhalf Nivan Petersen. Replacement lock Byron Bowes cantered over for a try for FNB UCT which Tedder naturally converted. He added a further two penalty goals, while De Beer swiped his brace quicker than a teenager at an arcade. Bowes bowed out to a yellow card in the 68th minute to which FNB NWU duly cashed in as flank André Fouché dashed over the chalk and inside centre Marco Donges was deadeye on target with extras. Another yellow card against the Ikey Tigers, this time to replacement prop Jovan Bekker, paved the way for Eagles wing Sylvestor Hassien to score a vital stoppage-time try that wrapped up two bonus points, but was ultimately not enough for the win. FNB Player That Rocks: Liam Greenhalgh (FNB UCT Ikeys) FNB NWU Eagles – Tries: Jandré de Beer (2), Komape Moloto, Sampie Swiegers, André Fouché, Sylvestor Hassien. Conversions: Nivan Petersen, Marco Donges (2). FNB UCT Ikeys – Tries: James Tedder (1x7), Rethabile Louw, Connor Evans, Byron Bowes. Conversions: Tedder (4). Penalties: Tedder (4). 2021 FNB Varsity Cup teams (Round 8) The FNB Varsity Cup will continue on Sunday with five Round 9 matches (times and venues to be confirmed): FNB UP-Tuks vs FNB CUT Ixias FNB UFS Shimlas vs FNB Maties FNB UJ vs FNB NWU Eagles FNB UCT Ikeys vs FNB Madibaz FNB Wits vs FNB UWC The league stage of the tournament will conclude on Tuesday, with two rescheduled Round 7 matches. Both will be played on the Tuks B-Field and broadcast live on DStv Now, channel 245. FNB UJ vs FNB Wits FNB CUT Ixias vs FNB NWU Eagles FNB Varsity Cup fixtures and logs DOWNLOAD THE NEW FNB VARSITY CUP APP! App Store Google Play Photos: Christian Kotze/Catherine Kotze/Varsity Cup

FNB Varsity Cup FNB UP-Tuks flyhalf/fullback Zander du Plessis is top of the point-scoring charts in this year's FNB Varsity Cup. The 21-year-old kicked an 83rd-minute match-winning penalty goal against FNB UFS Shimas on Monday night to take his tally for the season to 104. Second on the list is FNB UCT Ikeys flyhalf James Tedder (77). Hookers have scored plenty of tries in this year's FNB Varsity Cup, with the FNB NWU Eagles' Gustav du Randt having barged over the line on seven occasions! In second place on the try-scoring list is FNB UCT Ikeys fullback Athi Gazi with six, while half-a-dozen players have scored five tries each. The FNB Varsity Cup will continue on Thursday, with five Round 8 matches at the University of Pretoria. TOP POINT-SCORERS Pos Name Team Points 1 Zander du Plessis FNB UP-Tuks 104 2 James Tedder FNB UCT Ikeys 77 3 Keagan Fortune FNB NWU Eagles 62 4 Charles Williams FNB CUT Ixias 55 5 JP Duvenage FNB UFS-Shimlas 51 6 Jurich Claasens FNB UJ 48 7 Branden de Kock FNB UWC 45 8 Gustav du Rand FNB NWU Eagles 35 9 Christopher Schreuder FNB Maties 33 10 Athi Gazi FNB UCT Ikeys 30 TOP TRY-SCORERS Pos Name Team Tries 1 Gustav du Randt FNB NWU Eagles 7 2 Athi Gazi FNB UCT Ikeys 6 3 Tinotenda Mavesere FNB UWC 6 4 Devon Arendse FNB UCT Ikeys 5 5 Thembekile Boltina FNB Madibaz 5 6 Cohen Jasper FNB CUT Ixias 5 7 Rethabile Louw FNB UCT Ikeys 5 8 André-Hugo Venter FNB Maties 5 9 Janus Venter FNB CUT Ixias 5 10 David Brits FNB Maties 4

Record-breaking FNB TUT Vikings flyhalf Lusanda Xakwana is determined to make a career out of rugby. The 24-year-old, who previously played for the FNB WSU All Blacks, scored 112 points in this year's FNB Varsity Shield to become the tournament's all-time leading point-scorer (225). He was responsible for 43% of his team's points this season as the FNB TUT Vikings finished third on the log with five wins from six matches. Xakwana’s rugby journey began when he was 12 years old at Mount Packard Junior Secondary School. His brother, Sicelo Makhubalo, is a rugby coach, so he was easily influenced to pick up an oval ball. Xakwana started to take rugby more seriously at Dudumayo Senior Secondary School. His 1st XV performances earned him selection for Border at the U18 Academy Week and U18 Craven Week, and he went on to represent the union in the SA Rugby U20 Championship too. The flyhalf is no stranger to the FNB Varsity Shield, having played for Walter Sisulu University from 2017 to 2019, while studying toward a Diploma in Sport Management. He was then offered a bursary to continue his studies at the Tshwane University of Technology. Xakwana says the Vikings are like a "brotherhood" and treat each other like family. "Playing for TUT is really great, because the university ensures the players are happy inside and outside the field of play. They take care of things like accommodation, school stuff and food, and pay match fees on time.” Xakwana says he enjoyed the experience of playing this year's FNB Varsity Shield in a bio-bubble and didn't feel any pressure to break the point-scoring record as the team comes first. “But breaking it and being nominated for the Back That Rocks and Overall Player That Rocks awards, and getting three Player That Rocks awards mean a lot to me," he says. "I’m so grateful for the opportunity and must say thank you to my coaches and teammates.” One of those Player That Rocks awards came against his former university, who FNB TUT beat 64-8 in their final match of the campaign. "It was very emotional for me; I cried," says Xakwana. "Wow, I’ll forever be grateful for that." Regarding his immediate future, Xakwana says he will remain with the Vikings and consider an offer from a provincial union should it come his way. “I really love rugby," he adds. "I chose it as my career and I still believe that one day I am going to make it through rugby.” Photos: Christiaan Kotze/Catherine Kotze/Varsity Cup