FNB NWU Eagles claimed their second FNB Varsity Cup title with a hard-fought 27-25 victory over FNB UCT Ikeys at the Fanie du Toit Sports Ground, Potchefstroom, on April 17.
First-half tries from Vernon Paulo (2) and Tino Swanepoel, converted by Zinedine Robinson, gave the Eagles the edge heading into halftime.
Robinson also landed a penalty. Ntokozo Makhaza was successful with three penalties, but it wasn’t enough, as the home team went to the break with a 20-9 lead.
Ikeys made their intent clear at the start of the second half, coming out guns blazing and scoring a quick point-of-origin try through Reynhardt Crous to make it 20-18.
The Eagles remained under pressure for much of the half, with the visitors relentless on attack.
Tino Swanepoel showed why he was voted the FNB Player That Rocks in the semi-final against Maties last week when he scored a try to get the Eagles out of a difficult position, making it 27-18.
However, Ikeys continued with the pressure, and a late try by Jac van der Walt made it a two-point game at 27-25. Had a few balls gone to hand and the ball bounced their way, it may have been a different outcome.
In the end, the Eagles held their nerve to lift the coveted Varsity Cup trophy for the second time after they first did so in 2016.
FNB NWU Eagles 27 (20) – Tries: Vernon Paulo (2), Tino Swanepoel (2). Conversions: Zinedine Robinson (2). Penalty: Robinson.
FNB UCT Ikeys 25 (9) – Tries: Reynhardt Crous (POR), Jac van der Walt. Conversions: Ntokozo Makhaza (2). Penalties: Makhaza (3).
FNB Player That Rocks: Reynhardt Crous (UCT Ikeys)
CUT thump Madibaz to stay in Varsity Cup
FNB CUT demolished FNB Madibz 91-10 in their promotion/relegation encounter at the Fanie du Toit Sports Ground in Potchefstroom to retain their FNB Varsity Cup spot for the 2024 campaign.
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