Eagles-Ikeys, Maties-Shimlas set to clash in semi-final showdowns

The Eagles emerged victorious over Ikeys in a pulsating match on the Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds last night that pitted the two top teams on the log against one another in a chilly Potchefstroom. 

With its 30-18 win, the FNB Varsity Cup defending champions has secured a crucial home rematch against the Cape Town team in the competition’s semi-final on 15 April, while the University of the Free State’s Shimlas and Stellenbosch University’s Maties will clash earlier on the same day in Stellies’ Danie Craven Stadium.

From the moment the game started last night (8 April) it was clear that it was going to be a closely contested battle between the teams of North-West University (NWU) and the University of Cape Town (UCT).

The Eagles wasted no time to assert an early dominance on the field, with flanker Hennie du Randt scoring a solo try early on. However, the UCT Ikeys showed resilience by responding with a try of their own, thanks to winger Ntokozo Makhaza.

In the first half the Eagles managed to edge ahead with a series of well-executed tries. The back-and-forth nature of the game kept fans on the edge of their seats, as both teams attacked and defended well.

As the second half got underway, the intensity of the match increased, with the Ikeys fighting tooth and nail to narrow the gap on the scoreboard, 21-13. Hooker Johan Lombard’s try brought Ikeys’ score closer to that of the Eagles, but the purple jerseys refused to back down. 

Eagles’ winger Naiden Jaarts sealed the deal with a crucial try at the 78th minute, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and securing a well-deserved victory for the Eagles.

The player of the match, Hennie du Randt, was a standout performer, showcasing his skill and determination throughout the game. His impact on the field was instrumental in the Eagles’ success on the night and he played a key role in helping his team to secure the top spot on the log. 

The final of the Varsity Cup will be played on 22 April 2024 at 19:00.

Scorers:

Eagles: 30 (21) – Tries: Hennie du Randt, Luan van der Walt, Chyle van Zyl, Naiden Jaart. Conversions: Zinedine Robinson (2), Charles Williams.

Ikeys: 18 (13) – Tries: Ntokozo Mkhaza, Johan Lombard. Conversions: Ntokozo Makhaza (2).

Looking ahead, the Eagles have secured a home semi-final against the UCT Ikeys next week Monday (15 April 2024) at 19:00 at the Fanie Du Toit Sports Grounds, promising another thrilling encounter between the two sides. Meanwhile, the Maties Maroon Machine will face off against the UFS Shimlas in the earlier kick-off at 16:45 at Danie Craven Stadium, setting the stage for a Monday of high-stakes action. The final of the Varsity Cup will be played on 22 April 2024 at 19:00.

Player that rocks: Hennie du Randt (Eagles)

Results of round  7:

NWU 30-18 Ikeys

CUT 20-26 Maties

Wits 12-24 Shimlas

UJ 59-8 UWC