The FNB Varsity Cup delivered another thrilling round of action as teams battled for crucial log positions, with standout performances across the country keeping the race for the semifinals wide open.
At UJ Stadium, FNB UJ reignited their campaign with a determined 29-17 victory over FNB Shimlas, keeping their semifinal hopes firmly alive. The Orange Army showed resilience after last week’s heavy defeat, producing a composed and physical display in front of their home crowd.
The match got off to a cagey start, with both sides struggling to find rhythm in the opening exchanges. However, momentum swung in UJ’s favour midway through the first half when hooker Francois Prinsloo powered over from a rolling maul to open the scoring.
UJ continued to apply pressure, and their attacking intent paid off in the 27th minute when winger Mnelis Gamede showcased his pace, slicing through the Shimlas defence to score untouched. The hosts capitalised further on the visitors’ ill-discipline, with Prinsloo grabbing his second try from close range to hand UJ a commanding 19-0 lead at halftime.
The Orange Army carried that momentum into the second half, extending their advantage when Toy Engelbrecht crashed over to make it 26-0, seemingly putting the result beyond doubt.
However, Shimlas refused to go down without a fight. The visitors raised the intensity and were rewarded when scrumhalf Erich Visser struck twice in quick succession, scoring two tries within eight minutes to reduce the deficit and set up a tense final quarter.
Despite both sides failing to fully exploit numerical advantages, UJ managed to steady the ship in the closing stages. A late penalty by JT Kapank stretched the lead just enough to ease the pressure and secure the result.
Shimlas had the final say through a late try by Faasen Laubscher, but it proved to be merely a consolation as UJ held on for a vital win.
The victory not only keeps UJ’s playoff ambitions alive but also maintains their unbeaten home record, setting up an exciting run-in as the Varsity Cup edges closer to the knockout stages.