The University of Johannesburg (UJ) Senior Men’s Rugby Team kicked off their 2026 campaign in spectacular fashion, securing a decisive 61-41 victory against Varsity Cup newcomers, FNB Emeris. Playing before a capacity crowd at the UJ Rugby Stadium on Monday, 16 February 2026, the “Orange Army” combined clinical finishing with second-half resilience to overcome a spirited visiting side.
A tale of two halves
The opening 40 minutes proved to be a high-octane seesaw battle. FNB UJ signaled their intent early with a 13th-minute try from Ughan Afrika, followed by tries from Reuven Ferreira, Captain Thabang Mphafi, and Nicallen Gabrielsen.
However, FNB Emeris refused to be intimidated by the “big league” atmosphere. Bolstered by a brace from Nkazimulo Mzolo and a clinical try finished by Jacques Marais, the visitors managed to claw back into the lead, heading into the tunnel with a narrow 21-19 advantage.
Second-half surge
The home side emerged from the break with renewed intensity. Propelled by the electric atmosphere in the stands, FNB UJ’s forward pack took control of the set pieces. A flurry of mauling tries from Co-captain Kamohelo Molefe, Ryan Marimo, Josh du Toit, and Themba Sibisi – including several powerful mauling efforts – saw FNB UJ blow the game wide open. Nick Allen’s precision off the tee ensured the scoreboard kept ticking over, effectively taking the game out of reach for the debutants.
Match awards and atmosphere
Beyond the action on the pitch, the “Varsity Cup vibes” were in full swing. From the antics of the dynamic mascot, Hoepie, to the crowd-engagement from the MC, the sold-out affair lived up to its billing as a premier sporting event.
FNB Player that Rocks: Zian Cilliers (Scrumhalf)
Mark White Nissan Impact Player: Thabang Mphafi (Captain)
While FNB Emeris showed flashes of brilliance, the night belonged to the hosts. The FNB UJ squad now turns their attention to a massive away fixture. They travel to the Western Cape to face FNB SU Maties at the iconic Danie Craven Stadium on Monday, 23 February 2026.
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SCORERS:
UJ Tries: Ughan Africa, Reuven Ferreira, Thabang Mphafi, Nicallen Gabrielsen, Kamo Molefe, Ryan Marimo, Josh Du Toit X2, Tholithemba Sobisi.
FNB Emeris Tries: Jacques Marais X2, Nkazimulo Mzolo X2, Juan Orde Steyl X2, Edward Sigauke.
TEAMS:
FNB UJ: Sifiso Magwaza, Ryan Marimo, Bian Janse van Rensburg, Thabo Mashigo, Juan Fourie, Toy Engelbercht, Josh Du Toit, Thabang Mphafi ©, Zian Cilliers, Nicallen Gabrielsen, Zenkosi Mthiyane, Reuven Ferreira, Exauce Kevani, Ughan Africa, JT Kapank.
FNB Emeris: Christoff Etzebeth, Jacques Marais ©, Nathi Ntuli, Sphephelo Mbonambi, Kuhle Mthimkhulu, Andrew Davis, Sinelifa Ncwana, Juan Orde Steyl, Abande Mthembu, Frederick Marx, Edward Sigauke, Mambo Mkhize, Chris Horak, Nkazimulo Mzolo, Chijindu Okota.
