Defending champions soar to victory in thrilling away clash

In a thrilling encounter at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch, the defending FNB Varsity Cup champions NWU Eagles soared to victory over the Maties in their opening match of the season.

The Eagles showcased strength and determination, ultimately prevailing with a scoreline of 23-12.

The match kicked off with both teams displaying intense physicality and skill, setting the tone for a competitive battle.

The Eagles took an early lead with two well-executed tries, first by left winger Naiden Jaarts and later by Ezekiel Ngobeni, putting them ahead on the scoreboard during the first half.  However, the Maties fought back valiantly, with a try by Vernon Matongo injecting some much-needed energy into the home team.

As the second half unfolded, the Maties pushed hard to close the gap, but were unable to convert their opportunities into points. Despite Juan Mostert’s missed penalty kick, the Maties continued to apply pressure, determined to turn the tide in their favour.

In the closing stages of the match, Matongo once again showcased his prowess by bulldozing his way over the try line, igniting the Stellies crowd.

However, the Eagles’ solid defence and clinical execution proved to make the difference as they ultimately emerged victorious. Flyhalf Zinedine Robinson was named the FNB Player that Rocks.

The NWU Eagles flexed their wings to kick off their title defence campaign in style, while the Maties will look to regroup, and bounce back stronger in their upcoming matches.

Up next for the Eagles is a home fixture against FNB UWC, next Monday, 28 February at 19:00. The match will take place at the Fanie Du Toit Sports Grounds in Potchefstroom.

Following the conclusion of the first-round matches of the Varsity Cup 2024, the FNB NWU Eagles currently occupy the third position on the log with four points. They are closely trailing behind FNB Wits and FNB UCT Ikeys in the standings.

Point scorers:

FNB Maties : Vernon Matongo, Zuko Poswa. Conversion: Juan Mostert. FNB NWU Eagles: Naiden Jaarts, Ezekiel Ngobeni. Conversions: Zinedine Robinson (2). Penalties: Zinedine Robinson (2), Charles Williams.

Results after round one:

FNB CUT 23-19 FNB UJ

FNB UWC 10-65 FNB WITS

FNB MATIES 12-23 FNB NWU EAGLES

FNB UFS SHIMLAS 32-38 FNB UCT IKEYS

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