Madibaz continued their superb run in the FNB Varsity Shield as they saw off a spirited challenge from competition new boys Sol Plaatje University in Gqeberha on Friday.
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Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Gemmies may have fallen short in Gqeberha on Friday, but their performance against the experienced FNB Madibaz showed flashes of brilliance and a fighting spirit that bodes well for the rest of the competition and the future.
Gemmies burst out of the gates with intensity, taking a 14-0 lead in the opening 20 minutes thanks to well-worked tries from Leslie Ruiters and Cassie Botes.
The early dominance highlighted SPU’s attacking potential, with quick ball movement and sharp decision-making putting the Madibaz on the back foot. Fullback Bokamoso Maphisa was impressive in open play, weaving through defenders to score a superb solo try in the second half, while front-rower Aviwe Mpepo’s late charging run kept the Gemmies in the fight until the final minutes.
However, as the game wore on, the Madibaz used their forward power to wrestle back control, capitalising on maul opportunities and grinding down the SPU defense. It may have been the pressure or inexperience, but SPU’s discipline slipped at key moments, allowing the Madibaz to turn pressure into points.
Despite the loss, there were plenty of positives for the Kimberley side.
The backline showed creativity and pace, the pack fronted up against a much-vaunted Madibaz unit who are second on the competition log, and SPU never stopped fighting — a testament to their character and growing confidence in this competition.
The experience gained against a polished side like the Madibaz will be invaluable as SPU continues to develop and push for greater success, with their next encounter at home against the University of the Western Cape who are one spot above them on the table.
The good news for supporters is that the Gemmies will finally be back home after a long stint on the road, and will host UWC at their Suzuki Stadium fortress on Friday with the match kicking off at 5pm.
SPU may not have gotten the result they wanted, but they proved they belong in this competition — and the Gemmies’ journey is far from over.
Other Results:
FNB UFH 25-24 FNB WSU: UFH snatched victory with a last-gasp try, showing grit in a thrilling Eastern Cape derby.
FNB CPUT 28-27 FNB UWC: CPUT edged a nail-biter in Bellville, with Oyintando Maseti’s boot proving decisive.
FNB Varsity College 41-17 FNB UKZN: Varsity College continued their dominance, powered by Jacques Marais’ first-half hat-trick.
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