An electric FNB Varsity Cup semi-final clash is on the cards when FNB Maties and FNB Shimlas lock horns at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch on Monday,  7 April. Both teams are hungry to book their spot in the final, and with added layers of history, the stakes couldn't be higher. FNB Maties, the log leaders with 30 points, have been dominant this season, losing only one game. Their semi-final opponent, defending champions FNB Shimlas, finished in 4th place with 22 points, securing four wins from their seven matches. The Free Staters’ journey to this point has been a hard-fought one, but they’ll face a tough test in a Maties side that has been firing on all cylinders. Earlier in the season, Maties handed Shimlas a 41-37 defeat at the same venue, a result that was sweet for Maties coach Kabamba Floors. That victory avenged last year’s heart-wrenching semi-final exit at the hands of Shimlas, and Floors is eager to repeat the feat this time around. "The boys are in a great space, and we’re determined to make it to the final," said Floors. "We know what we're up against, but we're ready to give our best performance on the day." On the other hand, Shimlas coach Andre Tredoux is under no illusions about the challenge awaiting his side. "Maties have been outstanding this season, and we’ll need to be at our best to compete with them," Tredoux commented. "But this is the Varsity Cup semi-finals, anything can happen, and we’ll be giving it our all to defend our title." With both teams coming into this semi-final in fine form, expect a battle of intense physicality and tactical ingenuity. The winner will earn a spot in the final to face either FNB UP Tuks or FNB Ikey Tigers, who meet in the other semi-final. Starting XV:  Prince Mulea, Armand Combrink, Herman Lubbe, Zuko Poswa, Carel van der Merwe, Fortune Mpofu, Luan Botha, Ethan Snyman, Mckyle Volmoer, Christiaan van Heerden Smith, Dylan Miller, CJ Marx, Ryan Manuel, Grant De Jager, Elridge Jack . Replacements:  Luthando Makula, Janlu Basson, Jason Johnson, Michael Chettoa, CJ Erasmus, Warrick Jones, Samuel Badenhorst, Gcina Puzi. Kick-off is at 19:00 on Monday, and the Maroon Machine will be hoping for another unforgettable night at the Danie Craven Stadium. Fixtures and tickets HERE .

FNB Varsity Cup returnees FNB UP-Tuks will welcome the FNB UCT Ikeys in the first semi-final of what has been a dramatic season of the 2025 campaign. The Stripe Generation finished in second position on the log with only two losses in the campaign to secure a home semifinal. Their counterparts, Ikeys, finished just a point behind the Pretoria side. The affair promises to be a grueling encounter as Tuks will seek to revenge themselves as they suffered their first loss of the season in the hands of the traveling Capetonians. FNB UP-Tuks assistant coach Ignatius Loubser is in no doubt with his side’s current form. “I couldn’t be prouder of this team. The boys have put in hard work, not just on game days but in every session for the last 21 weeks and every detail of preparation. They’ve bought into the vision form our Head coach Dewey and each one of the management team, and their commitment shows in our performances. It’s been a season of growth blood sweat and tears, and the results speak for themselves,” said Loubser. “For us it’s about identity and legacy. This group wants to show what Tuks rugby is all about—intensity, precision, and resilience. “There is a word that the Finnish people have “Sisu” which translates to grit and perseverance but according to the Fins the greatness and true meaning of the word cannot be captured in any translation – which mean it is Grit and perseverance so large and with such great meaning that it is incomprehensible. “There’s a hunger to prove ourselves each session and each game every week, and that mindset has been the foundation of our success so far.” With the team’s performance since their return to the topflight football, they’ve seen a flood of fans at the Tuks Stadium, something Ikeys will need to come prepared for. This time the stakes are high as the final spot is up for grabs. “The support has been unreal. Playing in front of a packed stadium at home gives the team an extra edge, and we feed off that energy. The fans are a massive part of what makes Varsity Cup special, and we want to keep giving them performances to be proud of,” he said. “I have been involved in Varsity cup since 2011 and lately the Tuks supporters have truly outdone themselves no other teams supporters can hold a candle to the Tuks crowd.   “That’s always the goal; our team has cultivated a highly competitive culture. But for us, it’s about focusing on the next challenge, one game at a time. If we keep meeting our standards and growing as a team, everything else will take care of itself.” Starting XV:  Edwin Till, Allister Williams, Jayd Austin, David Engongo, JW Mare, Abel Pretorius, Kamohelo Tlome, Haydn Kemp, Chad-Lee Valentine, Jandre Burger, Bayanda Ngubane, Kobus Janse van Rensburg, Christiaan Vlok, Tharquinn Manuel, Ambesa Zenzile. Replacements:  Ruan van Blommestein, Jean Fourie, Barnard Nortje, Cayno February, Oelof De Meyer, Dillon Smith, JP Wentzel, Jayden Sam. Fixtures and tickets HERE .   By Lehlogonolo Ditshego

FNB CPUT rising star Keano Cookson has demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication throughout his athletic journey. Cookson’s consistency in rugby is built on hard work, sacrifices and an unwavering commitment to becoming the better version of himself every day. What sets him apart is his mental approach to challenges, he believes that success isn’t just about winning but about constant improvement and perseverance. Even after an injury in 2023, Cookson knew it was him versus himself to keep from giving up. “Your mind is your strongest tool. It is what will push you when your body feels like giving up and what will keep you focused when distractions arise,” said Cookson. “I think people forget that athletes are humans too. We experience stress and pressure, and it’s important to address those feelings and seek help, when necessary.” Cookson understands that mental health is just as important as physical fitness in an athlete’s journey. He highlights the importance of mental health support in sports, urging coaches and managers to encourage athletes to seek help when needed. He emphasises the need for accessible resources, stating, “I wish coaches, management, and volunteers could encourage athletes on the importance of reaching out when in need, and my wish is to have facilities made available for athletes when they need one.” His journey underscores the importance of mental fortitude in achieving athletic success. His resilience, discipline, and advocacy for mental health serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, his teammates and individuals striving for excellence in any field.   By: Mihlali Maraule

The 2025 FNB Varsity Cup Women's tournament draws to an end with only four teams remaining in contention of the title. Defending champions FNB UFH Women hosts last year’s semi-finalists FNB UP-Tuks in a repeat of last year’s clash. With a mountain to climb ahead of them, the ladies from Pretoria are eager to prove that they’re no walkovers. Squaring up in the opening semis, Tuks captain Jess Mare praised her side’s preparations ahead of the encounter. “Our preparations went well, a hard week of training the girls did very well and put a lot of effort in. We want to fix a lot of mistakes that made us lose matches previously,” said Mare. “We want to improve our game management; we haven’t been executing it very well especially on attack and making sure we get the basics. “Semis against the UFH takes us back to last year. The history we’re creating in this encounter, we fell short to UFH last year and they went on to win the tournament. We expect a tough match; they’re the reigning champions and we are not going to underestimate them.” “Unfortunately, we have just one win out of three, having lost to Maties and UJ, we would like to exploit our attacking shape we feel we haven’t really displayed our attack fully this season.” Mare believes there are no more underdogs in this competition. “There are no underdogs in this competition, everyone is in it to win. Every team put a lot in this competition, and it all comes down to who wants it more.” Starting XV: Nomzamo Nimorundsini, Aphiwe Masuku, Naki Thukutha, Mbali Ndlovu, Rethabile Kgatle, Thandi Mokatse, Gina Moya, Jess Mare, Erin Prins, Precious Tlaka, Innocentia Kgosana, Gugu Mncwabe, Lerato Tshabalala, Amukelani Lisenga, and Kwanga Majebe. Replacements: Leone de Bruyn, Arnell Primo, Sharon Stoaba, Ox Xholi, Marisna Godsil, Kgotso Letsoalo, Raylene Muller, and Thato Nkadimeng.   By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

The FNB UJ Women's team has secured a place in the semi-finals of the FNB Varsity Cup Women, marking a significant achievement in their campaign. Coach Patrick Ross-Allen expressed his excitement.    “It’s a great feeling to know that we made it to the semis. We’re just grateful and thankful for what we achieved, it’s one step better than last year, we’re very excited,” said Ross-Allen.   "It’s not going to be easy and we’re not underestimating them in their backyard. We’re just going to take it minute by minute and stick to what we know and what we can do to the best of our ability.   Should the team manage to secure a win in the semi-final, Ross-Allen described the potential victory as a massive boost for the squad.   “It would be a massive boost for us winning away from home to get back into the final. 2023 was the last time we played in the final,” she said.   “A loss isn’t nice, especially at home. They are a quality side, and we knew that. Our heads were hanging after that loss, but it was great to see them bouncing back in Monday’s training session.”    “The loss didn’t stick with us for a long time, we had time to get through it. We worked on our mistakes and had a prep week for this game.”   Starting XV: Vuyiswa Dlamini, Phophi Budzwa, Odirile Pusoe, Limamkele Duma, Sindiswa Ngwenya, Nyashadzashe Gonangombe, Esona Sokani, Alutha Ngcezula, Fatouma Yalcoue, Siham Chtioui, Boitumelo Motshoane, Mpumelelo Dlamini, Nonhle Mbatha, Thobile Msizazwe, and Noxolo Magasela. Replacements: Salizwa Tyali, Erica Ekeji, Ntandoyenkosi Nhleko, Esther Ntanda, Nomcebo Mchunu, Sphilile Sigwaza, Sinoyolo Nqinekile, and Jessica Sithole. By: Karabo Peter.

The FNB UFH Women’s team have their sights set on reaching a second consecutive FNB Varsity Cup Women’s final but must go through FNB Tuks Women in one of the semi-finals on Friday. It’s been a positive campaign for the ladies from Alice who picked up two wins in three matches and defeated FNB UJ 54-22 in their last outing. With that win, they booked themselves a home semifinal against Tuks, and head coach, Ntyatyambo Mkhafu believes working as a unit will be crucial if they are to reach another final. “I think if the girls are more disciplined and take instructions for us, as the coaching staff, things will go smoothly for us,” he said. “Another important thing is for us to convert when we enter the green zones. We must play as a unit, and that way, we’ll achieve our goals.” Mkhafu’s side defeated the same opponents in the last four last year. The only difference this time around is that they’ll have home ground advantage at the Davidson Stadium. Mkhafu believes a big turnout could inspire his side. “Playing against Tuks won’t be easy. We played against them in the semifinals last year, and we know they want revenge, and they want to go to the final. “That’s why I think having our home crowd will be crucial for us. We would like for our fans to come out in full numbers. I think that would encourage the girls a lot.” When asked what they are expecting from Tuks, the coach said: “We are expecting a tough and physical match. “They have big and good players. The scrums will be crucial, and they are good defensively, but we’ve also worked on those areas, and we want to limit them,” he ended. The semifinal clash between FNB UFH Women and FNB Tuks Women kicks off at 15:00. Starting XV: Ifikile Solontsi, Mila Wawa, Eyam Ngalo, Siphosethu Purity Ngogodo, Masie Mathangane, Thokozani Sikela, Aphiwe Nqana, Rose Haka, Sindisiwe Mbonja, Pinkie Touto, Sinekhaya Tywaleni, Lilitha Vakalisa, Siyolise Mbilase, Litha Tofu, and Inga Qongi. Replacements: Asemahle Mseswa, Nontlahla Cukula, Qaqamba Ndzondana, Siphelele Dlamini, Simamnkele Jolingana, Anam Jikijela, Lilitha Sapo, and Sibabalwe Jobo. By: Avuyile Sawula

FNB Madibaz will put everything on the line against FNB UWC to win a spot in the FNB Varsity Shield final. The highly anticipated clash at the Madibaz Stadium in Gqeberha on Friday is the result of an impressive 2025 campaign for the home team.   After suffering an opening-round defeat against FNB Varsity College, who eventually topped the competition standings, they fought back gamely to win six matches in a row to finish second on the log.   The semifinal is a rematch of last month’s thrilling round-robin encounter against UWC in which they scored a try after the final hooter to snatch a 27-24 victory.   By securing the runners-up spot, Madibaz have also earnt the right to face UJ (seventh in the Varsity Cup) in a promotion-relegation playoff in May.   Head coach David Manuel acknowledges the challenge UWC pose in the semis.   “There’s a bit of nervousness because they’re a quality side with a strong set piece and structured game plan, but they also thrive in unstructured play,” he said.   “We’ll need to be strategic in our decision-making and trust in the systems that have brought us success this season.”   Key to the home side’s chances will be prop Imibongo Mvuleni, whose impact was highlighted when he was named Player that Rocks in last week’s triumph over CPUT.   “I always strive to improve with each game, so being recognised in this way reassures me that I’m on the right track,” the frontrower, who weighs in at 115kg, said.   “The award also motivates me to keep working hard as we approach these crucial matches.”   “We were obviously disappointed to start with a loss, but we used it as motivation. We kept reminding ourselves of what was at stake and worked hard to ensure we didn’t experience that same disappointment again.”   He said playing their must-win encounter at home would make the occasion even more special as the support “is a huge boost”.   “I’m excited that we’ve reached this stage.”   Manuel still remembers how the player had joined the team from the university’s George campus.   “He sent me a picture of himself on WhatsApp, saying he wanted to be part of the squad.   “I told him he would need to move to Gqeberha to train with us and, since making that decision, his growth has been remarkable.”   The coach highlighted both his strength in scrummaging and growing leadership role within the team.   “Our approach is to develop players holistically and ‘Imi’ has exemplified that through his work ethic on and off the field,” Manuel said.   “As a group, we aim to inspire others and show what can be achieved with dedication and commitment.”     Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By: Jesica Slabbert

It was mission accomplished for FNB Varsity College who have already secured their qualification for the FNB Varsity Cup 2026 season after finishing the group stages on top of the log, but the Comets have now turned their focus to the FNB Varsity Shield playoffs and finishing the campaign as champions.   Leading his charge, the calm and collected coach Jeremy McLaren made a name for himself and his team as they became the first team from KZN to host a home semi-final in the FNB Varsity Shield and qualify for the FNB Varsity Cup.   “It’s such a big honour to be able to qualify for FNB Varsity Cup. I don’t think it has really sunk in for all of us,” said McLaren.   “For the first time in history there’s a (FNB Varsity Shield) home semi-final in KZN.”   The focus for the FNB Varsity Cup bound Comets has now shifted to regrouping for a strong finish to the season, this beginning with a semi-final clash against FNB CPUT in Durban.   McLaren has cautioned his troops on complacency, stating his concern that the Comets should not be their ‘own worst enemies’.   “The reality for us is that now we need to play like a (FNB Varsity) Cup side.   “The only concern is that we might be our own worst enemies with regards to beating them in Cape Town and thinking the same will happen,” said the FNB Varsity College coach.   “We are only as good as our last game. So, we can never go and think that because we’ve beaten them (FNB CPUT) in Cape Town we just have to arrive.   “The focus should definitely be to try and be at our best and get ourselves going. We have to keep doing what we have been doing in the last few weeks” he added.    Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By Mpendulo Letsoalo

Bustling FNB Madibaz hooker Kyle Erasmus achieved a long-cherished goal when he was named the FNB Player that Rocks for the first time in his career after scoring a hat-trick. The 22-year-old, who debuted for FNB Madibaz in the Varsity Cup of 2022, was pivotal in the team’s 38-28 victory over FNB SPU at Madibaz Stadium in Gqeberha.   Despite crossing the whitewash on three occasions, Erasmus emphasised that his success had been the result of a team effort that realised six tries in all.   “Rugby is a team sport, and the team always comes first but winning the award has been a long time coming,” the forward, who was chuffed with his role on the evening, said.   “When I heard my name being announced, you couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. My family and friends were also thrilled for me.”   “My tries resulted from a series of penalties, allowing us to kick for touch and set up mauls. We gained ground steadily, giving me the opportunity to cross the line.”   He was pleased with his overall performance in which his physicality on attack and in defence created more than just a few headaches for the opposition.   “I had some good steals at the rucks and our lineouts and scrums functioned well. However, there’s always room for improvement.”   The victory extended FNB Madibaz’s winning streak to five games after their opening-round loss to FNB Varsity College.   Erasmus, a fourth-year radiography student, credits the team’s success to discipline and adherence to their game plan.   “We thrive on structured play. That’s how we train,” he explained. “Following our game plan allows us to execute effectively.”   With the Gemmies known to capitalise on loose play, FNB Madibaz had to use their set pieces wisely, playing in their opponents’ half and converting their chances.   Erasmus added that the loss to FNB Varsity College did not define their campaign.   “After that, we came together, believed in ourselves and committed to a process that has given us the confidence to work as a unit towards our goals.”   There is a strong bond in the team – that much is evident – and the aim is clearly to keep on improving while tackling each challenge as it presents itself.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By: Jesica Slabbert

FNB UWC are dealing with the setback of having not achieved their initial goals in the FNB Varsity Shield – of gaining promotion to the FNB Varsity Cup – by focusing their attention on the playoffs. The former FNB Varsity Shield champions lost two regular season matches which left them in third place on the log, behind FNB Madibaz and FNB Varsity College who were promoted to the FNB Varsity Cup next season. Head coach Paul Treu described his feelings about the ongoing season as “mixed emotions”.   “The results speak for themselves. We started so well, and we obviously lost against Madibaz and we lost against CPUT,” Treu said. “That was a bit unexpected.” With promotion to the FNB Varsity Cup now out of reach, they are still eyeing the FNB Varsity Shield title. In order for that to happen the side will have to improve their discipline, according to Treu.   “If we want to do well for the rest of the campaign to go to a final and hopefully to win it, we will have to improve our discipline,” Treu said.   “And also those unforced errors of losing the ball in contact that was disappointing because those are things that we can control. But, you know, there’s still a chance. And then obviously the semi-final is something to look forward to.” “We knew what our goal was that we set at the start of the season,” FNB UWC skipper Romauld Nsombamanya said. “But due to certain results we didn’t manage to achieve our goal.   “It’s a thing that we have to take on the chin as a team. We take responsibility for things that didn’t work, now we just need to reroute our focus on the playoffs.”   FNB UWC will take on FNB Madibaz in Gqeberha on Friday evening looking for vengeance after going down 27-24 earlier in the season at the same venue.   “We need to understand that they’re a team that never gives up,” Nsombamanya said about Friday’s opposition.   “The lesson we learnt from the last match is that if we’re going to put them away, then we need to put them away properly.   “We need to bury them from the first half because if we give them an inch, they can come back.” Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE

FNB CPUT is set to face FNB Varsity College in Durban on April 4th in a high-stakes FNB Varsity Shield semi-final. Despite setbacks, the Blue Wave has remained resilient, using every challenge as fuel to push forward. Now, with a place in the final on the line, they are ready to rise to the occasion. This season has tested the team’s character adding two tough losses along the way, however, those setbacks have only strengthened their side. Head Coach Alistair Theys highlighted the team’s ability to bounce back, praising their resilience, growth, and improved chemistry. “Resilience is in our DNA, with the squad learning from mistakes, staying mentally tough, and trusting their preparation,” said Theys. “It’s about how you respond, and I’m proud of how the players have stepped up, now it’s about delivering our best performance when it matter most.” Assistant coaches Jongi Nokwe and Ramone Samuels have worked tirelessly to prepare the team. Nokwe, focusing on the backs, emphasised precision, smart decision-making, and seizing opportunities. “We know what we’re capable of, and the players have worked hard to improve with each game,” Nokwe said. “Now, it’s about staying composed, making the right decisions, and executing our game plan.” Samuels, reinforcing the team’s physicality and mental toughness, noted that their underdog status has been an advantage. “I am incredibly proud of how these young men have risen to the occasion, leading the log for five consecutive weeks,” Samuels said. “As we prepare for this titanic battle, we are commited to ensuring the forwards are not only physically prepared but mentally sharp and unified as a team.” FNB CPUT remains focused and determined, their season has been defined by resilience, learning, and relentless effort. As they step onto the field in Durban, they do so with confidence ’controlling the controllables’, knowing they have the ability, structure, and mindset to fight for a place in the final.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE By: Mihlali Maraule

The round robin stages of the FNB Varsity Cup have ended and the semi-finalists have been decided in dramatic fashion as defending champs FNB UFS showed their pedigree by beating FNB Tuks in Pretoria. The Shimlas win with a bonus points puts them in 4th spot just one above the Eagles who absolutely crushed the Ixias in Potch, but fail to advance to the playoffs in 5th.  FNB Maties cruised past FNB Wits to claim top spot on the log and a home semi-final while the loss sees the Witsies stay bottom of the log to be automatically relegated to the FNB Varsity Shield. FNB UCT Ikeys triumphed over FNB UJ in a highly competitive and exciting match. The Cape side end the group stage in 3rd and will face the Stripe Generation who finished 2nd in Pretoria . The Orange Army end their campaign in 7th and will go into the promotion relegation playoff against Madibaz on the 5th May. Playoffs: Semi-final 1: FNB Tuks vs FNB UCT, 7 April, 4:45pm at Tuks Stadium Semi-final 2: FNB Maties vs FNB UFS Shimlas, 7 April, 7pm at Danie Craven Stadium. Round 7 match day wrap: FNB UJ 31-49 FNB UCT Ikeys FNB UCT Ikeys triumphed over FNB UJ in a highly competitive and exciting match, securing a 49-31 victory in what was a thrilling encounter.   The match began with FNB UCT Ikeys striking first, capitalising on a penalty after FNB UJ conceded from a dropped scrum. Winger Ntokozo Makhaza slotted the ball through the posts to give the visitors an early lead. Ikeys quickly built on this momentum, and in the 15th minute, Danio Botha spotted a gap in the UJ defense. The conversion was successful, and Ikeys extended their lead.   However, FNB UJ wasn’t discouraged. The home side responded positively within a minute when Reuven Ferreria found space on the outside and powered through the Ikeys defense to score a try. The conversion followed, and UJ began to close the gap.   Leading to halftime, UJ had narrowed the deficit to just one point, with the Ikeys leading as the teams headed into the break.   The second half saw FNB UJ come out determined to take control. Bian Janse van Rensburg found a gap in the Ikeys defense and crossed the line to score another try for UJ, keeping the game tight. The conversion was good, and UJ trailed by just three points.   But FNB UCT Ikeys quickly regained the upper hand as Alex Vermeulen carried over the line to score, extending their lead. Despite a solid response from UJ, Ikeys remained clinical in their finishing.   With minutes remaining, Ikeys were awarded a penalty, and Duran Rayn Koevort made no mistake, slotting the ball through the posts to secure the win for the visitors. Watch highlights HERE. SCORERS: FNB UJ:  31 (19) Tries: Sifiso Dlamini, Coun-lee Koekman, Berwyn Bosch, Reuven Ferreira, Bian Janse Van Rensburg. FNB UCT Ikeys: 49 (20) Tries: Rethabile Louw, Danio Botha, Ntokozo Makhaza, Alex Vermeulen, Monray Daars. FNB Player that Impressed: Monray Daars (FNB UCT) TEAMS: FNB UJ: Damian Baker, Francois Prinsloo, Bian Janse van Rensburg, Jaden Ballie, Kamo Molefe, Siyemukela Ndlovu ©, Thabo Mashigo, Dylan Viljoen, Berwyn Bosch, Michail Damon, Ughan Africa, Reuven Ferreria, Sifiso Dlamini, Okwan Oavane, Oela Biaauw. FNB UCT Ikeys: Matthew Beckett, Keagan Blanckenberg ©, Zachary Porthen, Enos Ndiao, Danio Botha, Aiden Norris, Connor Jack Gordon, Aden Da Costa, Monray Daars, Alex Vermeulen, Ntokozo Makhaza, Thomas Nel, Kian Davis, Rethabile Louw, Durran Rayn, Koevort. FNB NWU Eagles 117-19 FNB CUT FNB NWU Eagles secured a convincing victory against FNB CUT Ixias at the Fanie du Toit Sportsground on Monday night, but it wasn’t enough to earn a semi-final spot. FNB CUT Ixias opened the scoring through Zachery Bester, taking a 5-0 lead, but the Eagles quickly responded. Tian van Zyl’s try leveled the score at 5-5 before Ntobeko Shezi and Luan van der Walt’s double extended their advantage to 26-5. Matthew Fortuin, Indiphile Tyeda, and Sean Roulston piled on the points. CUT’s Kevin Strydom scored late to make it 52-12, but the Eagles’ dominance was clear by halftime as they went into the break with a commanding 52-12 lead. FNB NWU Eagles continued their dominance in the second half, quickly extending their lead through Matthew Fortuin and Chyle van Zyl. CUT responded with a try from Raydon Swartbooi, but the Eagles remained relentless, with Guhan du Bois, Luan van der Walt, and Naiden Jaarts adding to the tally. By the 65th minute, the Eagles had reached 100 points, leaving CUT struggling to keep up. Indiphile Tyeda and Tian van Zyl added late tries before Stehan Heymans sealed the emphatic 117-19 victory with a last-minute penalty. SCORERS FNB NWU Eagles:  117 (52) Tries: POR try: Luan Van Der Walt (3), Naiden Jaarts (2), Tian Van Zyl (2), Chyle Van Zyl (2), Mathew Fortuin (2), Ntobeko Shezi, Indiphile Tyeda, Guhan du Bois, Sean Roulston, Sanele Zungu. FNB CUT: 19 (12) Tries: Zachery Bester, Kevin Strydom, Raydon Swartbooi.   FNB Player that Rocks: Ntobeko Shezi  (FNB NWU Eagles) TEAMS FNB NWU Eagles: lethwa Buthelezi, Chyle Van Zyl, Ntobeko Shezi, Tsepo Tlaka, Stephan Krugel, Guhan du Bois, Tian Van Zyl, Sean Roulsto, Sanele Zungu, MJ Mostert, Joubert Shoeman, Isrome Phatudi, Matthew Fortuin, Naiden Jaarts, Luan Van Der Walt. FNB CUT: Mamello Moshoaliba, Tokelo Ntaopane, Sisipho Nofuya, Asekho Marubelela, Kevin Strydom, JT Van Der Walt, Hope Seyaga, Francois Bester (C), Raydon Swartbooi, Matthys Cornelius Malan, Zachery Bester, Jean Swart, Liam Prinsloo, Clive Hartzenberg. Devinto Vergotine. FNB Wits 7-47 FNB Maties FNB Wits were sent packing by a dominant FNB Maties team, who worked hard to secure a commanding 49-7 victory at Wits Rugby Stadium on Monday evening. The visitors delivered a brilliant defensive effort in the first half, keeping Wits scoreless while racking up a 21-0 lead to the disappointment of the home crowd. Despite their best efforts, FNB Wits couldn’t put any points on the board, as the men from Stellenbosch ran rampant. Maties’ first half tries came courtesy of a brace from CJ Erasmus and an incredible solo effort from outside centre Grant de Jager. Inside centre CJ Marx was in fine form with the boot, converting all three tries for the Maroon Machine. The second half saw FNB Maties pick up where they left off, scoring immediately from the kickoff. Scrumhalf Mckyle Volmoer charged down a Wits clearance kick to dot down. The visitors continued to dominate the physical exchanges, making life difficult for Wits. However, the hosts refused to roll over and tested the Maties’ defense, which held firm. FNB Wits were once again guilty of too many errors, which kept them pinned in their own half. Maties hooker CJ Erasmus completed his hat-trick in the second half, while Wits finally got on the board at the death through replacement loose forward Risima Khosa, with Tireque Apolles adding the conversion. By the time the final whistle blew, it was the Maroon Machine who walked away with their heads held high after a resounding 49-7 victory. SCORERS FNB Wits: 7 (0) Tries: Risima Khosa. FNB Maties: 47 (21) Tries: CJ Erasmus (3), Grant De Jager (2), Mckyle Volmoer, Carel van der Merwe. FNB Player that Rocks: Carel van der Merwe (FNB Maties) TEAMS: FNB Wits: Ricardo Brandao, Dagan Meuwese, Sibusiso Shongwe, Thomas Beling, Hayden Munnery, Joshua van Vreden (VC), Luke Cannon, Christopher Kachungunu, Drew Bennet, Matthew Coetzee, Kevon Chirwa, Setshaba Mokoena (C), Ngia Selengbe, Dustyn Holmes Lindani Dweba. FNB Maties: Prince Mulea, CJ Erasmus, Jason Johnson, Zuko Poswa, Carel Van Der Merwe, Fortune Mpofu, Luan Botha, Ethan Snyman, Mykyle Volmoer, Christiaan Van Heerden-Smith, Dylan Miller, CJ Marx, Grant De Jager, Jean-Marc Trichard, Elridge Jack. FNB UP-Tuks 35-48 FNB UFS Shimlas FNB UFS Shimlas had the last say as they claimed a 48-35 victory against FNB UP-Tuks at Tuks Stadium.  The visitors struck first as Jacobus Bezuidenhout opened the scoring from close range and Giddy converts. It didn’t take long as FNB UP-Tuks’ Edwin Till dropped down over the whitewash levelling the score 7-7. At 25 minutes, Shimlas hit back immediately after Nkoka Ngobe dived over for the point of origin try which was converted by flyhalf Bradley Pierre Giddy. Kirwin du Preez silenced the Tuks fans and the Shimlas stretched their lead to 23-7 after 35 minutes. The match went on to the end the first stanza with the visitors leading 23-7. In the second half, the hosts managed to compose themselves and at 44 minutes Hayn Kemp dragged his side bag into the game. After a great support line from his forwards Kemp got the lucky bounce to score a point of origin try for the Stripe Generation, taking the score to 16-23. A back-to-back try for the Stripe Generation, Bayanda Ngubane scored for the log leaders as he cut down the deficit. But Shimlas was not going to sit back as Ben Pitout widened the gap once again. The visitors and defending champions showed why they won the title last year and walked away with all the points at the Capital securing a semi-final spot.   SCORERS FNB UP-Tuks: 35 (7) Tries: Edwin Till, Haydn Kemp, Bayanda Ngubane (2), Ambesa Zenzile. FNB UFS Shimlas:  48 (23) Tries: Jacobus Bezuidenhout, Ben Pitout, Siviwe Zondani, Nkoka Ngobe, Kirwin du Preez, Ramon Uys. FNB Player that Rocks: Ramon Uys (FNB UFS Shimlas) TEAMS: FNB UP-Tuks: Barnard Nortje, Edwin Till, Bom Louw, JW Mare, Roald Hattingh, Kamohelo Tlome, Cayno February, Haydn Kemp, Chad-Lee Valentine, JP Wentzel, Bayanda Ngubane, Keane Galant, Tharquinn Manuel, Ambesa Zenzile, Jandre Burger. FNB UFS Shimlas: Ntokozo Hlope, Jacobus Bezuidenhout, Ben Pitout, Reinier Viljoen, HJ de Beer, Ramon Uys, Marno Stopforth, Liam Shamburg, Hlumelo Klaas, Bradley Pierre Giddy, Siviwe Zondani, Freddie Dreyer, Nkoka Ngobe (c), Kirwin du Preez, Regan Izaks Playoffs: Semi-final 1: FNB Tuks vs FNB UCT, 7 April, 4:45pm at Tuks Stadium Semi-final 2: FNB Maties vs FNB UFS Shimlas, 7 April, 7pm at Danie Craven Stadium.