Second versus third on the log was always going to produce some fireworks and, while the game was scrappy at times, it was not short of explosive moments. In the end, FNB Madibaz managed to hold on for a 25-19 victory over FNB Varsity College at the Madibaz Stadium in Gqeberha. The half-time score was 18-5.
The home team gained the ascendancy early on in both halves and this ultimately proved the difference between the two sides. Their defence was particularly impressive near their goal line while they also made the most of their attacks inside their opponents’ 22.
Kehan Myburgh had his kicking boots on all afternoon, landing some sensational penalties and conversions to keep the Nelson Mandela Bay students ahead.
Varsity College, playing in their first Varsity Shield season, has already gained a reputation for never giving up and they were no different in this match.
They refused to lie down in the face of scoreboard pressure and were rewarded for their efforts with some memorable forward tries, albeit too late to claim the victory.
Scorers:
FNB Madibaz: Tries: Qurin Cupido, Kyle Erasmus, Mpumelelo Mavuso. Conversions: Kehan Myburgh (2). Penalties: Kehan Myburgh (2).
FNB Varsity College: Tries: Jacques Marais (2), Nathi Ntuli. Conversions: Frederick Marx, Luke Horak.
FNB Player That Rocks: Leon van der Merwe (FNB Madibaz)
Teams:
FNB Madibaz: 1 Endinako Kuse, 2 Kyle Erasmus, 3 Sbulelo Roji, 4 Marthinus Johannes Strydom, 5 Christopher Cikuru Kachungunu, 6 Mzwakhe Kevin Hlupheko, 7 Alwaba Liyema Elam Bobelo, 8 Leon van der Merwe, 9 Mpumelelo Solani Mavuso, 10 Rashied Conrad, 11 Henry Edward Frederick Kruger, 12 Troy Delport, 13 Enrique Franks, 14 Qurin Cupido, 15 Kehan Myburgh.
FNB Varsity College: 1 Daniel Van Huizen, 2 Jacques Marais, 3 Siyabonga Dube, 4 Garren Müller, 5 Werner Coetzee, 6 Juan Steyl, 7 Enzo Van Niekerk, 8 Mandisi Nkutha, 9 Abande Mthembu, 10 Frederick Marx, 11 Nkazimulo Mzolo, 12 Macmillian Mudara, 13 Mbasa Nkonki, 14 Sivuyisiwe Mpendu, 15 Tshegofatso Ramaloko.