UJ thrashed out of Varsity Cup

FNB UJ were booted out of the Varsity Cup in a dominant first-half display by FNB Pukke to book their spot into the final with a 35–7 victory.

The University of Johannesburg team, which was playing in their first playoff game since 2013, ultimately didn’t have the composure necessary to win the do-or-die matches.

In comparison, FNB Pukke, playing in their third consecutive semifinal, made the most of their limited opportunities to revenge their Round Two loss to the same opposition.

WATCH: FNB UJ supporters on top of their voices at the UJ Stadium:

Pukke dominated early on and capitalised on the hosts’ errors to take a 29–7 lead into half-time. They began the match in emphatic style. Fullback, Rhyno Smith, calmly slotted a second-minute penalty to immediately begin applying the pressure on the home side.

FNB UJ used their scum dominance as a platform to launch dangerous back-line moves, but the pressure seemed to be taking hold of the players as knock-ons and careless decisions stifled any promising play by the hosts.

Smith was in spectacular form, clearing his team’s line on several occasions and kicking two crucial penalties in the 64th and 78th minute to finish with a personal tally of 19 points.

Despite dominating possession, FNB UJ were unable to make use of their time with the ball and fell short against a determined FNB Pukke.

Scorers:

FNB UJ: 7

Five-point tries: Devon Maré

Cons: Divan Nel

FNB Pukke: 35

Nine-point tries: Sylvian Mahuza

Seven-point tries: Sylvian Mahuza

Cons: Rhyno Smith (2)

Pens: Rhyno Smith (4)

Drops: Rhyno Smith