UKZN Impis Score Impressive Win Against DUT Rhinos

Photo Credit - Speedshots.co.za

FNB UKZN bounced back from two consecutive defeats with a big win (73-07) in the first-ever KwaZulu-Natal Varsity Shield derby.

After conceding 245 points and 39 tries in their first two games, this was a much-improved performance by the Rhinos. They showed far more fight and even scored a try while down to 13 men.

Fullback Jarryd Nicholls, No 8 Menzi Mabaso and lock Nkanyezi Gumede scored tries as FNB UKZN raced into a 19-0 lead after just 11 minutes.

Despite having opportunities to kick for touch and take the game to FNB UKZN, FNB DUT opted for two long-range penalty attempts, which had the distance but not the accuracy.

FNB DUT finished the first half with 13 men after receiving two yellow cards. But while Impi flyhalf Linamkele Mcwabeni scored their bonus-point try on the cusp of half-time to take a 26-0 lead, the Rhinos were able to score their second try of the tournament early in the second half through centre Moyomuhle Mkhize.

The Impi crossed the line on another seven occasions, with Mabaso completing a memorable hat-trick, but FNB DUT will at least take some positives from this defeat.

FNB Player that Rocks: Menzi Mabaso (FNB UKZN)

FNB UKZN Impi: Tries: Jarryd Nicholls, Menzi Mabaso (3), Nkanyezi Gumede, Linamkele Mcwabeni, Gacula Poswa, Thando Cele, Sinamava Ntsinde, Thobani Shangase, Luyanda Zondi. Conversions: Jodian de Vos (7), Linamkele Mcwabeni (2).
FNB DUT Rhinos: Tries: Moyomuhle Mkhize. Conversions: Nelson Mhlongo.