Shimlas scuttled by Stellenbosch team
The FNB Varsity Cup 2025 season has kicked-off with a bang as FNB Maties avenged their semi-final loss to FNB UFS last year with a nail-biting victory over the defending champs at the Danie Craven in Stellenbosch last night.
FNB Maties 41-37 FNB Shimlas
FNB Maties marked their 150th anniversary in spectacular fashion, securing a thrilling 41-37 victory over the defending Varsity Cup champions, Shimlas, at a packed Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch.
The home side led 22-16 at halftime in a fast-paced, action-packed match.
From the first minute, both teams produced exciting, end-to-end rugby. Every time Maties scored, the Shimlas responded quickly, making for an entertaining contest.
However, the intense humidity and heat caused several handling errors, with Maties struggling more due to the sweaty ball, while Shimlas fell off a number of tackles in the first half.
Despite these challenges, Maties’ five tries, and a penalty try two minutes before the final whistle were enough to withstand the Shimlas’ relentless pressure. Coach Andre Tredoux’s team, with their never-say-die attitude, pushed hard until the end but couldn’t break through.
Maties head coach Kabamba Floors can be particularly pleased with the character displayed by his youthful squad, which included 17 debutants and had an average age of just 21.
SCORERS
FNB Maties 41 (22)
Tries: Elridge Jack, Ezekiel Ngobeni, Luan Botha, Armand Combrink, Joel Leotlela.
FNB Shimlas 37 (16)
Tries: Kirwin du Preez 2, Marnus Winter.
FNB Player That Rocks: Ezekiel Ngobeni (Maties).
FNB CUT claimed crucial points away from home and newly promoted FNB UP-Tuks pick up a bonus point win on their return to the competition. In Cape Town the Ikey Tigers match against the NWU Eagles was postponed as the teams were warming up after a student protest at the Green Mile.