North West and Maties battle for Varsity Cup title

The picturesque Danie Craven will host the Varsity Cup final on Monday. Photo: Chris Ricco/BackpagePix

The picturesque Danie Craven will host the Varsity Cup final on Monday. Photo: Chris Ricco/BackpagePix

Published Apr 13, 2018

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STELLENBOSCH – North West University’s (NWU) Jonathan Mokuena and Maties coach Hawies Fourie will face off in the Varsity Cup final at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch on Monday evening.

The scene will be all too familiar for Fourie and his side when they welcome NWU once again. Mokuena and his charges have been in this situation before, with Mokuena's charges leaving Stellenbosch with the coveted trophy after grinding out a 7-6 victory in 2016.

Chippie Oelofse's Maties side have gone unbeaten in one of the most competitive years in the tournament's history.

Fourie believes that NWU will run the ball when the two sides meet on Monday.

“FNB NWU have a physical pack of forwards and a skilful backline with a lot of speed. I expect them to make the game as quick and loose as possible. In Schalk Hugo they have a flyhalf that can kick with both feet and his ability to read the game and see space will test our back-three.”

When asked if his side is taking inspiration from their win in 2016, Mokuena explained they are rather looking to create a new legacy.

“2016 was good, but unfortunately what we did in 2016 doesn't count for much on Monday. We need to forget about what happened in the past and focus on the opportunity that has present itself for us on Monday.

“It's going to be a big challenge, but that's what rugby is about, if you want to be the best you have to beat the best.”

With NWU keen to claim the trophy in Stellenbosch once again, and Maties desperate to win at home for the first time since 2010, the Varsity Cup final promises to be an intriguing contest. 

African News Agency (ANA)

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