Log leaders UJ ready to rewrite history in high stakes showdown with TUT

The UJ Orange Army are gearing up for a high-stakes showdown against their longtime rivals TUT in a match that promises to be a thriller. The two teams are set to face off at the UJ Soweto Stadium, with the home side looking to reverse a painful history of narrow defeats.

The rivalry between UJ and TUT has been a defining feature of the Varsity Football tournament. In 2023, UJ's dream of a treble championship was crushed by a 2-1 defeat to TUT in the final. This followed another heartbreaker in 2022, where TUT emerged victorious on penalties, making it two consecutive final losses for the Orange Army.

Despite these recent setbacks, UJ has a pivotal victory in their history against TUT. Back in 2021, UJ eliminated TUT in the semi-finals on their way to winning their first-ever Varsity Football title.

This year, the tables have turned. UJ currently sits at the top of the log with 11 points after five games, boasting an impressive record of three wins and two draws. TUT, on the other hand, is in fourth place with eight points, having secured two wins, two draws, and one loss. While UJ missed out on the 2024 campaign, their return to the tournament has been nothing short of spectacular, setting the stage for a dramatic encounter.

"We boast a new team of young and senior players who want to win the title," says UJ Men's captain, Ndabezinhle “Juice” Nkosi.

"We acknowledge the history between the two teams in this competition, TUT winning two titles here at our home ground - but we gave them a run for their money. It's going to be a tough encounter, but the boys are up for the task."

With UJ riding a wave of momentum and TUT eager to prove their championship mettle, this game is more than just a regular fixture; it's a battle for bragging rights and a chance to rewrite the narrative.

Fixtures: HERE  

Tickets: HERE.

By: Collen Maepa