FNB Emeris produced a commanding performance in the FNB Varsity Cup promotion/relegation playoff, defeating Walter Sisulu University 47-12 to secure their place in the 2027 competition. The Durban-based Comets set the tone early and never looked back, racing into a commanding halftime lead before shutting the door in the second half.
Emeris struck first in the 2nd minute following a slick attacking sequence, with Chris Horak slicing through the defence to score under the poles. The conversion was added to give the Comets a 7-0 lead.
They doubled their advantage just three minutes later, capitalising on their forward dominance as a powerful driving maul saw Jacques Marais cross for the first of his two tries. With the conversion successful, Emeris were firmly in control at 14-0.
The pressure continued to mount, and in the 25th minute, Chijindu Okonta delivered a moment of individual brilliance. A sharp inside step followed by a perfectly weighted grubber set up his own try, extending the lead to 19-0 despite the missed conversion.
Emeris’ forwards continued to assert themselves late in the half, with another driving maul resulting in Marais grabbing his second try of the match. The successful conversion pushed the score to 26-0.
There was still time for one more blow before the break, as Edward Sigauke finished off a rapid counter-attack in the final moments of the half. The conversion was added to give Emeris a commanding 33-0 lead at halftime.
WSU showed improved intent after the break and were rewarded in the 47th minute when Sosulwe Mqonci crossed under the poles following a quick tap and slick handling move. However, a missed opportunity to add extras kept them trailing at 33-5.
Momentum briefly swung their way, and five minutes later, Ahlule Zokoza finished off a turnover move with a strong run to the line. The successful conversion reduced the deficit to 33-12 and hinted at a possible comeback.
Emeris, however, quickly regained control. In the 60th minute, Christian Els went over after a well-worked offload in the build-up, with the conversion stretching the lead to 40-12.
The Comets had the final say in the closing stages, returning to their most effective weapon as a driving maul from a line-out resulted in Christoff Etzebeth crossing for the final try of the match. The conversion was added to seal a comprehensive 47-12 victory.
The result ensures that FNB Emeris retain their place in the FNB Varsity Cup while FNB WSU will look to regroup after falling short in their promotion bid.
Scorers:
FNB Emeris: Tries: Chris Horak , Jacques Marais (2), Chijindu Okonta, Edward Sigauke, Christian Els, Christoff Etzebeth
FNB WSU: Tries: Sosulwe Mqonci, Ahlule Zokoza
Teams:
FNB Emeris: Thabo Njapha, Jacques Marais (C), Nathi Ntuli, Garren Muller, Kuhle Mthimkhulu, Thando Luthuli, Meno Barnard, Juan Orde Steyl, Abande Mthembu, Frederick Marx, Edward Sigauke, Mambo Mkhize, Chris Horak, Denilo Jordaan, Chijindu Okonta, Andrew Davis, Christoff Etzebeth, Soso Maseko, Sinelifa Ncwana, Robert Everson, Joshua Aissing, Jayden Fortuin, Christian Els.
FNB WSU: Mihlali Nohoyeka, Sokhana Pampila, Yoyisa Mahobe, Luvo Zindela, Sinentlahla Kesa, Qhayiya Makhalima, Khanaye Mbakaza, Sipho Hobosch (V), Thembela Folo, Lukhangele Tshayi (C), Sosulwe Mqonci, Bulelani Nondlwana, Axola Mtalana, Ahlule Zokoza, Isiphe Mbini, Khanyiso Mncono, Inathinkosi Mhlakaza, Buhlebenkosi Kedama, Siya Ncapayi, Lizole Hebe, Sinethemba Buhlungu, Pasco Mokoena, Sandisiwe Mkwayimba.