In a crucial FNB Varsity Cup encounter, the University of Johannesburg (FNB UJ) emerged victorious over Wits University (FNB Wits), securing a 32-24 win and claiming Johannesburg derby bragging rights. The hard-fought match at Wits Rugby Stadium on Monday, 17 March 2025, marked UJ’s first victory of the 2025 campaign, significantly altering the team’s position on the log.
The 2025 FNB Varsity Cup tournament has not been smooth sailing for both FNB UJ and FNB Wits. The two teams went into their fifth fixture with four losses each since the start of the tournament.
FNB UJ’s win propelled them from seventh to sixth place on the log, providing a much-needed boost as they approach the final two rounds of the competition. Conversely, Wits remains at the bottom of the table, still seeking their first win after five matches.
Going into the Joburg derby, both teams needed a win to move out of the potential relegation zone. A win for FNB UJ relieves pressure off the team, although the Orange Army (FNB UJ) is not out of the woods yet.
As usual, FNB UJ showed character in the second half, scoring four tries. While FNB Wits managed two additional tries, FNB UJ maintained their lead, sealing the victory with a late penalty after a Wits foul.
While FNB Wits continues their hunt for their first win, FNB UJ heads to North West University in Potchefstroom with confidence from their win over the derby hosts (Wits).
SCORERS
FNB Wits: 24 (10)
Tries: Thomas Beling, Joshua van Vreden, Kevon Chirwa, Thireque Apolles.
FNB UJ: 32 (7)
Tries: Kamo Molefe (2), Ughan Africa, John Ford, Sifiso Dlamini.
FNB Player That Rocks: Michail Damon (UJ)
TEAMS
FNB Wits: Ricardo Brandao, Dagan Meuwese, Justin Amos, Sibusiso Shongwe, Thomas Beling, Hayden Munnery, Joshua van Vreden (VC), Thando Biyela, Christopher Kachungunu, Drew Bennet, Matthew Coetzee, Kevon Chirwa, Kamohelo Ncunca, Keith Chirwa, Lindani Dweba, Setshaba Mokoena (C).
FNB UJ: Damian Baker, Ryan Marimo, Ali Gqaza, Neil Hansen, Siyemukela Ndlovu (C), Muzuva Gutu, Dylan Viljoen, Liam Rowan, Alzeadon Felix, Ughan Africa, John Ford, Adriano Jackson, Sifiso Dlamini, Michail Damon.
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