WSU run riot over SPU as Varsity Shield Round 2 delivers high-scoring weekend

ROUND 2 of the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield brought some eye-catching displays across the competition, with Kimberley’s Sol Plaatje University (SPU)facing a tough outing at home against the Walter Sisulu University (WSU). Here’s a quick round-up from the weekend's matches.

SPU struggle against WSU at Suzuki Stadium

WSU stormed into the Northern Cape and imposed themselves on Suzuki Stadium from the start, running out 48-22 winners over SPU.

The visiting forwards were dominant early on, with eighth man Sipho Hoboasch powering over from the back of a maul in the eighth minute, followed by Asisipho Jim’s try in the 15th. By the 24th minute, Managaliso Zixhesha added a third to put WSU firmly in control at 19-0.

SPU managed to get on the scoreboard with a spectacular try, giving the home crowd hope, but WSU responded immediately with two more tries — including one from winger Ahlule Zokoza — to take a 31-5 lead at halftime.

The second half continued in similar fashion. WSU’s hooker Managaliso Zixhesha completed a hat-trick, and the away side’s forward power sealed the victory despite SPU fighting back with tries from Raees Sahabodien, Jaiden Faviers, and a power-play score from Emile Noble.

WSU’s forwards dominated throughout, and Sipho Hoboasch was named Player of the Match for his commanding performance.

Other Round 2 highlights

• FNB Madibaz 60-32 FNB UKZN

Madibaz bounced back from their opening-round defeat with a relentless attacking display. Tries from Kyle Erasmus, Dewald Gerber, Eddie Kruger, and Sean van Zijl helped secure a convincing win, despite a second-half fightback from UKZN.

• FNB UWC 51-32 FNB CPUT

In a thrilling Cape derby, Hlomla Ncana scored a hat-trick, and Aaron Swartz earned Player of the Match honours, leading UWC to a statement victory over CPUT at UWC Stadium.

• FNB Wits 51-0 FNB UFH

Wits put in a clinical performance at home, dominating the forwards and scoring freely. Flanker Liam Santos grabbed a hat-trick, with Bryce Samuel, Hayden Munnery, Jamaal Feldman, Lindani Dweba, and captain Latica Nela also crossing the line.

Looking ahead

SPU will need to regroup after this heavy defeat at home, while other teams build momentum as the season gains pace. The Kimberley-based team will travel to the Cape for their next encounter against CPUT at the Cape Peninsula University Of Technology grounds.

No doubt the Gemmies will be determined to show that they deserve respect in this competition, and give the CPUT team something to think about.

The match kicks off on Friday, February 27, at 7pm.