In Gqeberha, FNB Madibaz stunned log-leaders FNB UWC with a last-gasp 27-24 victory, scoring two minutes after the final hooter.
Image: Varsity Shield
The FNB Varsity Shield Round 4 delivered everything rugby fans could hope for – thrilling comebacks, nail-biting finishes, and dominant performances. From the intense battle at Sisa Dukashe Stadium to FNB CPUT’s ruthless display in Bellville, the weekend’s action kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
FNB WSU finally found their breakthrough moment, securing their first win of the season with a dramatic 21-20 victory over FNB SPU at a rain-soaked Sisa Dukashe Stadium in East London. The conditions were far from ideal, with heavy rain making the field slippery, but WSU adapted well, managing the game with patience and precision.
The home side came out firing, taking a 14-8 lead at halftime. Centre Elam Kuse and speedster Khanya Solani each crossed the try line, with Isiphe Mbini converting both efforts. SPU, determined to make an impact on the road, responded with a try from Tumelo Papane and a penalty from captain Khanya Kama.
WSU extended their lead in the second half when lock forward Siseko Mani powered over after a brilliant assist from Axola Mtalana. However, the visitors weren’t done yet. Fullback Bokamoso Maphisa and Liyabona Maplanga both scored late tries, the latter in the 78th minute, setting up a nerve-wracking finish.
But WSU’s defence held firm, clinching a long-awaited victory by the slimmest of margins.
FNB Player That Rocks: Khanya Solani (WSU)
In another gripping encounter, FNB Varsity College overcame a halftime deficit to defeat FNB UFH 26-13 at Davidson Stadium on Thursday. The Blues, desperate for their first win of the competition, dominated the first half and took a commanding 13-0 lead into the break.
Scrumhalf Sinalo Jivana opened the scoring with a penalty before hooker Bunono Jamani muscled over from a rolling maul. Another Jivana penalty ensured the home team was in control at halftime.
But the second half belonged entirely to Varsity College. Their relentless attack saw them score three tries in just 20 minutes, courtesy of captain Abande Mthembu, Jaques Marais, and Chandler Green. Flyhalf Frederick Marx converted all three tries, giving his side the lead for the first time. Marais then secured his brace in the 76th minute, putting the game beyond UFH’s reach.
The Blues, who had been so dominant in the first half, were held scoreless in the second as Varsity College walked away with a crucial bonus point victory.
FNB Player That Rocks: Jaques Marais (FNB Varsity College)
The clash between FNB Madibaz and FNB UWC in Gqeberha was nothing short of breathtaking. With the match swinging back and forth, it took a try deep into stoppage time for the Madibaz to edge out a 27-24 win over the log leaders.
Flank Sean van Zijl set the tone early, scoring in the sixth minute. But UWC responded immediately through scrumhalf Conwill Conradie. The visitors then took control, with prop Qelile Hlonela and winger Leachim Adams adding their names to the scoresheet, giving UWC a slender lead.
Madibaz stayed in the fight, using the wet conditions to their advantage. A clever through-kick forced a handling error, allowing Bukho Pantsi to pounce on the loose ball and dot down, keeping the game alive. With the clock winding down, the home team pushed forward, winning penalty after penalty to advance upfield. Then, in the dying moments, Van Zijl completed his brace, sealing an emotional victory that sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
FNB Player That Rocks: Conwill Conradie (FNB UWC)
If late drama defined the other matches, FNB CPUT’s clash against FNB UKZN Impi in Bellville was a masterclass in dominance. From the first whistle, CPUT imposed themselves, racing to a 35-10 halftime lead and ultimately securing a 49-24 victory.
Denley Adams wasted no time, scoring in the fourth minute after a well-executed maul. Flyhalf Oyintando Maseti, who had an outstanding match, added the conversion. UKZN responded with a penalty from Siso France, but CPUT continued to pile on the pressure.
Maseti was at the heart of it all, slotting penalties, assisting tries, and even getting on the scoreboard himself. His partnership with Clyde Frieslaar and Keewan Titus was devastating, as they combined for multiple tries throughout the game. By the time the final whistle blew, CPUT had made a loud statement, cementing their place as serious title contenders.
UKZN showed resilience late in the match, with Tinotenda Mazhindu catching the CPUT defence off guard for a well-taken try. However, it was too little, too late, as CPUT marched off the field with a commanding victory.
FNB Player That Rocks: Oyintando Maseti (FNB CPUT)
Round 4 of the Varsity Shield proved why this competition remains a fan favourite. From last-gasp winners to dominant performances, every match provided unforgettable moments.
As the tournament heats up, teams will be looking to build on their momentum – or bounce back from heartbreak – when the action resumes next week.
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