UP-Tuks Rugby produced a clinical and dominant display to defeat UJ Rugby and secure a place in the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup final on home soil.
The visitors made a bright start to the semi-final, striking first through Tholithemba Sibisi after a sharp attacking movement initiated by Jeandre Uithaler. The visitors brought early physicality, but discipline issues soon disrupted their momentum as they were reduced to 14 men.
Tuks capitalised immediately, with Kobus Janse van Rensburg combining effectively with Munashe Dukuswa to level the scores following sustained pressure.
UJ had an opportunity to extend the lead, but JT Kapank missed from the tee before later converting a penalty to restore a narrow advantage. Continued ill-discipline proved costly for the visitors, with Coun-Lee Koekman sent to the sin bin. Divan du Toit punished the infringement, slotting a late kick to leave the scores level at halftime.
Orange army regained momentum early in the second half, with captain Kamo Molefe finishing from a driving maul to edge his side ahead. Tuks responded with urgency as Janse van Rensburg crossed the line to keep the hosts in contention.
UJ briefly regained control when Akha Mjawule broke through the defensive line to score, with Kapank adding the extras. However, another period with 14 men shifted the balance firmly in favour of Tuks.
Impact from the Stripes bench proved decisive, with Jean Fourie powering over to hand the hosts the lead. Du Toit extended the advantage from the tee, while Dukuswa added a second try to stretch the margin further.
UJ continued to compete, with Kapank crossing for a try and Sibisi completing his brace. Francois Prinsloo also added a late score, but the visitors were unable to contain Tuks’ attacking efficiency.
Sibisi registered his brace with a cheeky run however it was not enough as Dukuswa pierced through UJ defence to seal the victory for Tuks.
Further tries from Jacques Oberholzer and Dukuswa sealed a comprehensive victory, as Tuks’ composure, depth, and clinical finishing secured progression to the final.
Speaking post-match, captain Dillon Smith revealed that a frank and honest halftime discussion proved to be the turning point in the match.
We had a tough conversation at halftime. We struggled to build momentum in the first half, but after the break we managed to find our rhythm and things started to come together.
Smith also called on supporters to rally behind the team in the final, promising an occasion to remember.
We urge the fans to come out in numbers and support us. We’ll make it special for them.
The result confirms Tuks’ status as strong title contenders as they face NWU Eageles at Tuks stadium,13 April 2026.