Following an uncharacteristic start to the 2019 Varsity Cup Rugby tournament, the University of Johannesburg (UJ)’s rugby team bounced back with a 37-17 victory over Wits on Monday, 04 March 2019 at the Westdene Stadium. This was UJ’s first win of the 2019 Varsity Cup season, and Wits’ second loss in five matches.

UJ produced a more clinical performance to celebrate after an entertaining encounter against the neighbours. By halftime, the scoreline sat at 17-0 with UJ in the lead. Odwa Nkunjana handed UJ two tries in the first half, with Shaun Williams adding a seven-pointer and later Mashudu Raphunga added a conversion and a penalty.

Wits’ Adrian van Blerk responded in the 52nd minute with a try, and a few minutes later Kasende Kapepula adding a seven-point run-in bringing the scoreline to 20-16. UJ extended the lead with two quick penalty kicks and a converted try, firing them to a comfortable lead. UJ’s Adriaan Bester converted a five-pointer to seal the deal for UJ as they eventually won their first match.

The Orange Army will face a stiff competition when they take on defending champions, Matties, next week at the Danie Craven Stadium. Wits have crashed out of the competition for this year.