Wits steal a victory from UJ

BRAAMFONTEIN – And another loss for the orange army but this time at the hands of Wits.

Wits University's Varsity Cup rugby team run onto the field in their Johannesburg derby match against the University of Johannesburg. Photo: Andile Dlodlo

Wits University made their own history after beating fierce rivals, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) for the first time in the Varsity Cup.

In a match hosted by Wits and filled with supports of both campuses, the home team triumphed 7–6 on 10 February. Wits will enjoy their victory parade as it was also their second win in two games.

The University of Johannesburg awaits play to resume during their clash against Wits University on 10 February. Photo: Andile Dlodlo

Wits coach Hugo van As looks like he knows exactly what he is doing with the team. Following the team’s 40–10 win over the University of the Western Cape, they returned home to play in front of their home fans for the first time. UJ, who had lost their opening game at home to the University of Cape Town, came into the game looking for redemption. The stage was set for the Joburg derby and after a slow start to the game, UJ managed to get onto the scoreboard first thanks to a 35m penalty from flyhalf PW Steenkamp. Wits conceded another penalty and Steenkamp stepped up once more to put UJ 6–0 ahead.

Wits University on the attack against the University of Johannesburg during their Varsity Cup game. *Photo: Andile Dlodlo*

The score remained 6–0 at the break with both teams knowing they had 40 minutes left to grab the win and the keys to the city. The second half continued in the same fashion as the first but an improved defensive effort from UJ kept Wits at bay. Wits’ first chance to get back into the game was missed as kicker Chris Humphries failed to convert a 30m penalty. Soon after, UJ were awarded a penalty but Shaun-Christian Baxter missed the attempt.

Wits University beat the University of Johannesburg for the first time in Varsity Cup history on 10 February as they narrowly won the match 7–6. Photo: Andile Dlodlo

Both teams continued to give it all they had, and in the last 10 minutes of the game the home team stole the show. Wits’ Matt MacDonald went over for a five-pointer which was duly converted for the one-point lead which Wits defended until the final whistle.

University of Johannesburg wing Tatendaishe Mujawo put in a spirited performance during his team’s 7–6 loss to Wits Unversity. *Photo: Andile Dlodlo*

Wits players Aidynn Cupido and Daniel Kasende were awarded the FNB Player that Rocks and Steers Kinging Moment accolades respectively.

Wits University scrumhalf Runaldo Pedro during their first Varsity Cup win against the University of Johannesburg on 10 February. *Photo: Andile Dlodlo*

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