FNB UWC claimed bragging rights in an entertaining Cape derby after defeating FNB CPUT 51-32 in a high-scoring FNB Varsity Shield clash at UWC Stadium on Friday evening.
The home side set the tone early, breaking the deadlock in the third minute when scrumhalf Dywane Badenhorst dotted down following a powerful rolling maul, with fullback Aaron Swartz adding the extras. Although FNB CPUT responded through hooker Lindisipho Kula from a lineout drive, FNB UWC’s dominance up front proved decisive.
Centre Hlomla Ncana was instrumental in the first half, crossing twice - including a superb finish in the corner as FNB UWC built a commanding 22-5 halftime lead.
The visitors showed renewed intent after the break, with Dwayne Atkins grabbing two tries to keep FNB CPUT in contention. However, FNB UWC’s forward pack continued to impose themselves, with winger Amisi Juma and substitute Keno Alexander extending the advantage.
Ncana completed a memorable hat-trick in the 69th minute before Leighton Damon and Juma added further tries to seal the result. FNB CPUT fought until the end, adding late scores through Jacquin Jacobus and Yibanathi Phoncana, but FNB UWC had the final say. Swartz, who controlled proceedings brilliantly from the back and contributed valuable points from the tee, was deservedly named Player of the Match.
Scorers:
FNB UWC: Tries: Hlomla Ncana X3, Juma Amisi X2, Dwayne Badenhorst, Keno Alexander, Leighton Damon.
FNB CPUT: Tries: Dwayne Atkins X2, Lindisipho Kula, Philasande Ngcobo, Jacquin Jacobus. Yibanathi Phoncana.
FNB Player of the Match: Aaron Swartz (FNB UWC)
Teams:
FNB UWC: Hlonela Qelile, Marciano Forbes, Graigan Matroos, Alexander Jaco van der Merwe, Melumzi Mandongamma, Melvin Diedricks, Dantson Cloete (c), Leighton Damons, Dwayne Badenhorst, Nhlamulo Shibane, Juma Amisi, Denver van Wyk, Hlomla Ncana, Keith Syster, Aaron Swartz.
FNB CPUT: Emihle Benya, Lindisipho Kula, Kieran Naidoo, Ntsako Mhlanga, Abongile Golela, Lazola Makula, Simphiwe Thabede, Denley Adams, Jayson January, Reuben Noble, Samukelisiwe Madonsela, Mbuso Maseko, Jacquin Jacobus, Dwayne Atkins, Ronaldo Lakay.