The University of Johannesburg’s (FNB UJ) Senior Men’s Team concluded a landmark season this week, leaving an indelible mark on the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup competition. On Monday night, 6 April, the Orange Army descended upon Tshwane to face the University of Pretoria (FNB UP-Tuks) in a high-octane semifinal – marking UJ’s first appearance in the tournament’s penultimate stage in over a decade.
While the scoreboard at the final whistle read 53-34 in favour of the hosts, the scoreline tells only a fraction of the story. It was a night defined by grit, flair, and a relentless spirit that signalled UJ’s return as a powerhouse in South African university rugby.
From the kick-off, FNB UJ played with the confidence of a team that belonged on the big stage. The Orange Army struck first through a clinical display of relay play. A sharp combination between JT Kapank and Jeandre Uithaler released Tholithemba Sibisi, who sliced through the Tuks defence to claim the opening try.
The match was a see-saw battle of momentum. Despite facing the adversity of four yellow cards throughout the game, UJ’s defence remained resolute for vast stretches. The teams went into the halftime break locked at 8-8. The subsequent second-half surge saw co-captain Kamohelo Molefe power over from a well-executed maul to reclaim the lead.
The second half evolved into a modern classic. Even as Tuks utilized their depth to pull ahead, UJ refused to back down. Standout performances included: Sibisi secured a brilliant brace with a “cheeky” late-game run.
FNB UJ’s flyhalf JT Kapank showcased his high rugby IQ, crossing the whitewash to keep the pressure on the hosts. Francois Prinsloo also added his name to the scoresheet in a late offensive flurry.
A season of broken barriers
Reflecting on the campaign, Co-Coach Therlow Pietersen expressed immense pride in a squad that exceeded expectations and shifted the university’s rugby culture.
“This was a special journey,” Pietersen remarked. “We’ve built a culture that united a young, new group of players. This team gave the university supporters the belief that UJ are true competitors. We managed to win against NWU Pukke, UFS Shimlas, and CUT – powerhouses we haven’t been able to crack in many years.”
The coach highlighted the leadership of JT Kapank, praising his calm demeanor and tactical brilliance: “He was his real self in the semifinal; driving the attack and fighting for his team. While every player gave their all, his ability to hold the team together was vital.”
Reflections from Coach Therlow Pietersen: Building for a golden future
The 2026 campaign was more than just a series of matches; it was a revival of the Orange Army spirit. With sold-out home games and a dedicated traveling fan base, the support from the UJ community, management, and leadership has been the backbone of the team’s success.
“The disappointment etched on the players’ faces after the semifinal loss serves as the ultimate motivator. It is the mark of a team that no longer settles for ‘close enough’ but hungers for silverware.
“Our plans going forward include maintaining the brotherhood and team’s culture and identity as the brand. Right away, we’ll be preparing for the next season by focusing on individual player growth during the 2026 league and cup competitions. We are not coming back as the underdogs in 2027, we’ll be leveraging this year’s experience to return as undisputed title contenders next season.” Said Coach Pietersen.
FNB UJ may have fallen short of the final, but the Orange Amry have won the hearts of their supporters and sent a clear message to the rest of the competition: The Orange Army is back, and they are only getting stronger.
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SCORERS
FNB UP-Tuks: (8) 53
Tries: Munashe Dukuswa X3, Kobus Janse van Rensburg POR, Jean Fourie, Akha Mjawule, Jacques Oberholzer.
FNB UJ: (8) 34
Tries: Tholithemba Sibisi X2, Kamo Molefe, JT Kapank, Francois Prinsloo.
FNB Player of the Match: Akha Mjawule (FNB UP-Tuks)
TEAMS
FNB UP-Tuks: MJ Nel, Jean Fourie, Jayd Austin, Ben Jansen van Vuuren, Duncan Blignaut, Guvandre Moses, Akhona Kunene, Dillon Smith ©, Akha Mjawule, Divan Du Toit, Munashe Dukuswa, Christiaan Vlok, Kobus Janse van Rensburg, Andile Myeni, Hopewell Ntshangase.
FNB UJ: Damian Baker, Ryan Marimo, Bian Janse van Rensburg, Jaythen Orange, Juan Fourie, Kamo Molefe ©, Josh Du Toit, Toy Engelbercht, Coun-Lee Koekman, JT Kapank, Tholithemba Sibisi, Reuven Ferreira, Exauce Kevani, Zenkosi Mthiyane, Jeandre Uithaler.
