The UFS Blues hit the ground running in the opening round of 2024 Varsity Men Football and it doesn’t get any tougher than traveling to Mafikeng, where they will square off against the NWU. There is an age-old rivalry between these two fine institutions and that will certainly add more spice to what promises to be a cracking ‘derby’. Especially after their heated battle last season.
In the 2023 season the Blues narrowly missed out on reaching the semi-finals again, and that was to a certain degree down to a lack of points on the road.
UFS are ready this year though, they are confident, and they want redemption, especially against the rivals that held them to a draw in Bloemfontein last year.
Captain, Boy Rantsoti, said for them it is important to set the tone early in the competition, while the word ‘redemption’ also lingers in the back of the mind. “The opening game will be a very tough one against the semi-finalists of 2023 Varsity football,” said Rantsoti.
“Heading into the game, we are looking for redemption, because last year we played to a 1-1 draw against them at home, and with the game being the first one of the tournaments, it will be important to set the tone early.
“Especially for the upcoming games, and we need to do well against NWU to show just how much we really want this.”
Rantsoti added that the hard yards have been put in and this gives them confidence.
“We know that it's not going to be easy, but we are very much prepared, and my players are excited and ready for the game. That is because we've all been putting in the work, and as tough as they are, I truly believe, and I am confident that we are going to win this upcoming game.
“Apart from getting the three points, the objective is to set the tone early.”
Thursday’s Varsity Cup opener between NWU and UFS in Mafikeng kicks off at 17:00.
Fixtures HERE
Tickets HERE
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