University of Pretoria (TUKS) Women’s Team head coach Maud Khumalo says they are prepared to fight for the title after losing in the final to the University of the Western Cape last season but suggested their rivals are still favourites due to the strength of their squad. TUKS are still in search of their first-ever title, with TUT (six times), UJ and UWC, the only sides to have lifted the coveted honour. They surprised many last season by reaching the final where they lost on penalties to UWC but this time around, Khumalo feels they have a better chance due to the increased competition with her playing squad. “The lesson that I’ve taken is that you always need to be consistent, if I can tell you a little about last year’s team, we were only 13 players and the rest were newcomers, no experience, first years and they never played Varsity Football before,” Khumalo said. “I’ve learnt as a team if you believe in each other it’s still possible to reach the final. So I think our preparations last year were proper. That’s why we managed to reach the finals.” “The left centre-back now, she played for the national team Morongwa Manamela, she has the experience, then Mapaseka Mpuru also she is a former Banyana Banyana goalkeeper, she has experience also. “I coached them in the U17 and U20 national teams, even Betty [Mallela] she also has experience but back then she was a goalkeeper, not a centre-back.” Khumalo, who holds CAF A and B and Uefa B coaching licences, started working with the Tuks team at the end of 2018. Before that, she worked in the U17 and U20 national teams as well as the assistant coach to Banyana boss Desiree Ellis back in 2016. She also coached men’s football with the TUT South campus between 2013 and 2018 and earned a nomination for Coach of the Year for her impressive work with the institution. When asked about whether TUT can restore the status quo as the dominant force of the competition after missing out on the semi-finals last season, she cast doubt they hold the experience that the likes of UWC have. “When I look at TUT, those players in the Hollywood Bets Super League are not playing at the Varsity level. So they are still in a rebuilding phase, I can see maybe two, three or four players maybe with them – so I think they will still need to build more to compete with the likes of UWC,” she explained. “With UWC, most of the girls playing there, I coached them in the U20s, some went with to the World Cup, so they have experience, also playing in the Hollywood Bets. So they might have a disadvantage travelling so much recently. “But they will be ready to play and defend their title in the tournament, the only thing they need to pray for is maybe avoiding injuries.” PLAYER TO WATCH “We have something in a store, I won’t say who it is – let’s just wait and see on Tuesday there will be a surprise for sure,” Khumalo said. DID YOU KNOW? — Mapaseka Mpuru played for SA U17, SA U20 and Banyana Banyana. In 2019, she was called up to the Banyana squad for the Fifa Women’s World Cup in France. — Morongwa Manamela captained the SA U17 and U20 teams. TEAM FACT FILE Nickname: Tuks Province: Gauteng Appearances: Eight (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021) Biggest win: 6-0 against CUT (2019) Biggest loss: 5-1 against TUT (2016) 2022 SQUAD Goalkeepers: Slindile Duma, Mamello Lesesa, Mapaseka Mpuru Defenders: Relebogile Phala, Nomvelo Mkhize, Sinazo Ntlokinendaba, Mmakhgotso Mashishi, Morongwa Manamela, Rylee Arde, Betty Mallela, Bochulo Lumkwana, Olwethu Tetyana Midfielders: Lethabo Ledwba, Sinamile Mkhwanazi, Thando Khubheka, Ibanathi Msindo, Rethabile Makhwela, Vuyo Xabanisa, Wendy Shongwe, Simamkele Tshuku, Sphesihle Khubheka Strikers: Sneziwe Nombikal, Lesedi Petlane TECHNICAL TEAM Head coach: Muad Khumalo Assistant coach: Khomotso Mbetse Goalkeeper coach: Bilal Ntshangase Physiotherapist: Vuse-umuze Khoza Team manager: Connie Mnguni Kit Manager: Sibusiso Masombuka Event Manager: Khathochelo Mbanda

North-West University head coach Alfa Dolopi comes into the 2022 Varsity Football Tournament with a largely inexperienced squad but has boldly stated they are not coming to Johannesburg to simply add numbers in the tournament again. NWU impressed in the bio-bubble at the University of Pretoria TUKS last season but failed to make the last four as the home side, University of Johannesburg, University of the Western Cape and Wits University progressed to the semi-finals. While they are very much ranked as underdogs, there will be a clear change in the game plan from last season where they looked mostly to play on the counter. “Based on our previous tournaments, now we’re trying to emphasise movement off the ball. Last year, if you checked we weren’t so comfortable off the ball, too, so this year we’re looking to keep the ball more,” Dolopi explained. “So we’ve got a large number of new players this year, I think we’ll have about 10 or 11 players from last year but this time we’ll use more of the newer players, the first years.” Having to balance the Varsity Football tournament as the second-tier playoffs with his squad, there are opportunities for the new wave of talent to have the platform to impress, Dolopi admitted and he feels there are some even capable of representing South Africa. “I won’t be utilising most of the key players because next week is the Sasol League play-offs so maybe you will see some of the emerging crops of players there,” he said. “But I can assure you now we’re not here to add numbers, we want to compete for the title. You will see, I know I’m very ambitious, but I’m realistic too, I do have players who I believe can fit into the Banyana Banyana squad.” The opening fixture against the University of Limpopo who finished the group stages winless with the Durban University of Technology last time around represents a chance to potentially start the tournament on a positive note, and he didn’t mince his words about the game plan. “My plan against UL in the opening game is to set the standard, remember, the most important game of the tournament is the first game, to set the tone – I want to throw everything that I have to them,” he added. “I want to kill the game as early as the first half so that I can rest the players that I want to rest. I can allow other players to get minutes and prepare the team for the second game.” PLAYER TO WATCH Zanile Khoza is one to look out for, a pacy and tricky winger that can create and has an eye for goal. She’s been tipped to become one of the latest players to graduate from Varsity Football to national team football. TEAM FACT FILE Nickname: Eagles Province: North West Appearances: Four (2015, 2016, 2017, 2021) Biggest loss: 3-0 against UWC Biggest win: 4-1 against VUT 2022 SQUAD Goalkeepers: Lebogang Maoto, Noluthando Mhlontlo Defenders: Lebogang Maoto, Hlalefang Moledi, Queen Mphuthi, Amanda Malute, Jabulile Tshabangu, Noluthando Mhlontlo Midfielders: Tshireletso Kgengoe, Paballo Maphalala, Rebaone Mojahi, Lerato Monate, Zanile Khoza, Flora Khoza, Lesego Sibano, Nolwazi Ncana, Memory Mathe, Gugulethu Nkosi, Kamogelo Mokabane, Kamogelo Mokabane Strikers: Bonolo Kgomotshwane TECHNICAL TEAM Head coach: Alfa Dolopi Assistant coach: Azanaia Moshushu, Philani Zikalala Sports Scientist: Dr Adele Broodryk Physiotherapist: Kgomotso Molapo Club Administrator: Michael Seleka Team manager: Queen Mokgosi Club Manager: Michael Seleka

The conclusion of the 2022 Varsity 7s rugby saw fans treated with an entertaining festival of rugby. We look back at UWC lifting the trophy, the player of the tournament and our picks for team of the tournament. The University of Western Cape won their inaugural Varsity 7s title by beating the University of Free State in a brilliant final. UWC captain Peter Williams scoring twice to lead the Bellville side to victory. Speaking to Varsity Sports after lifting the trophy for his team, Peter Williams shared what the winning feeling felt like and going all the way with his squad. On winning the 7s title with UWC; “Look I can’t describe this, I think there is no word that comes close to describe this feeling, it’s indescribable especially from where we come from and the adversity we faced. But we came up on top. I can’t give you words, I really can’t, I’m speechless.” Coming in the tournament as underdogs; “The underdog tags really spurred us on, it really inspired us to push hard, we didn’t see ourselves as underdogs in general, we see ourselves as champions and we are going to enjoy the moment.” The Suzuki Player of the Tournament award went to UFS speedster Chad Adams whose hattrick in the semi-finals was instrumental in getting the Bloem side into the final by knocking out defending champs UJ. Here are our picks for the Varsity 7s team of the tournament. Team of the Tournament: Player of the Tournament – Peter Williams (UWC) Chad Adams (UFS) Calvin Clark (NWU) Shaine Oderson (UWC) Francios Pretorius (UJ) Ferdinand Vergottini (UFS) Brett Arnolds (Maties) Honorable mentions: Campwill Willemse(UP-Tuks), Kevin Hlupheko(Wits), Federick van Zyl (Maties), Stiaan Genis (UFS) & Asemahle Mafenyana (UJ) By Nkosinathi Shazi

Exhilarating entertainment was the theme of the 2022 Varsity Cricket tournament from 3-5 October that formed part of the Festival of Varsity Sports at UP-Tuks in Pretoria this week and we take a look at the highlights and picked a Varsity Cricket XI for the 2022 edition comprised of the players who put in outstanding performances! Maties were crowned as Varsity Cricket champions to bag a maiden title against the North-West University (NWU) who fell just short in a cracking final. CUT made the semi-finals for the first time while Tuks failed to make the final for the first time in history, even though they played on home soil. Maties came into the tournament with a team stacked with SA u.19 talent (George van Heerden, Michael Copeland, Valentine Kitime, Ethan Cunningham and Kaden Solomons), but they did not ride on their reputation and backed it up on the field. Overall, Maties deserve to take the title based on the character they should in pressure situations and their ability to keep believing in themselves even when the going got tough. In the final, Ryan Bailey’s side, were struggling to keep the NWU in check as they reached 118/0 batting first. With their backs against the wall, they sent out their player of the tournament, wrist spinner, Benjamin Ward, into battle. He delivered with two crucial wickets and swung the game back into Maties’ reach. Their batsman never panicked in the tournament. If a top order player misfired, they could always count on the middle and lower order to pull them thorough. George van Heerden was their star batsman who scored 207 runs in the tournament at an average of 51.8. They also won all their matches batting second – a testament to their ability to control a chase, as no total seemed to phase the Maroon Machine. Maties kept their best performance for the final and sealed the win with a six – it doesn’t get any better than that. 2022 Varsity Cricket team of the tournament (XI) Eben Botha (NWU) NWU’s aggressive run scoring machine hit the only century of the tournament with a 113* (58) against UCT-Ikeys. Botha was also the top run scorer with 227 runs at an average of 56.8 and strike rate of 174.62. His swashbuckling approach gave NWU the start they needed most often than not. He also smashed the most sixes (12) and fours (25). JP King (NWU) Botha’s opening partner also had a brilliant tournament smashing 188 runs at an average of 62.7 and strike rate of 139. He also played a major role in the final carrying his bat with 75 (53) with a fantastic innings. King will definitely have scouts sitting up and taking notice of this young talent. Mark Amm (Madibaz) Amm opened the innings for the Madibaz during the tournament, but he can slot in at number three in this line-up as a power hitter. Amm made 167 runs at an average of 41.8 during the tournament, most often keeping his team in the game. He also hit two half-centuries. George van Heerden (Maties) Maties’ best batsman of the tournament was the epitome of consistency scoring 207 runs at an average of 51.8 a high score of 46 and a strike rate of 145.77. Van Heerden also pummeled 11 sixes, the second most of the tournament and did his reputation no harm with a classy performance. Jack Lees (UP-Tuks) Lees was one of the shining lights for Tuks in a disappointing campaign. The middle-order batsman was always amongst the runs, stroking 145 runs at an average of 45. Lees provides the perfect foil in the middle order to stabilise the innings. Garnett Tarr (CUT) This is an interesting choice, considering that Tarr opened the batting for CUT, but he kept picked based on his performances with the bat and that he was the best wicket-keeper during the tournament. Tarr made 5 dismissals and also hit 94 runs, the most of any keeper during the tournament. His strike rate of 142.42 is also impressive and most often played an integral role in CUT’s semi-final charge. Don Glover (Maties) It is safe to say that Don Glover might have played one of the most crucial and underrated roles in the Maties team – the finisher. A strike rate of 186.27 and valuable knocks against UJ 32* (19), UWC 29 (14) and NWU 21* (8) took Maties to victory on numerous occasions. He also had the average of 56.75, due to the fact that he was only dismissed once in the tournament. He smashed 7 fours and 6 sixes, most notably a boundary clearing heave to take Maties to their first title. Benjamin Ward (Maties) The Player of the Tournament is none other than Maties’ spin sensation, Benjamin Ward. Ward took 13 wickets at an average of 10.2, economy of 6.9 and strike rate of 8.8. His biggest highlight was a superb hat-trick against UP-Tuks in the semi-final where he also picked up an incredible 4 wickets in one over. He also showed his competence with the bat scoring an important 30* (19) against UJ in the opening game. Caleb Seleka (NWU) Another leg spinner who impressed was Caleb Seleka of the NWU. He was the only bowler to take 5 wickets in an innings at a superb economy rate of 4.6. His control was exemplary and always gave the NWU a wicket-taking option. He was also the second highest wicket-taker during Varsity Cricket with 9 wickets. Philip Kleynhans (Maties) Maties’ premier pacer was a revelation, especially in the final where he bowled beautifully in the death overs against the NWU. He took 8 wickets during the tournament at a steady economy of 6.3 and strike rate of 11.75 and average of 12.3. Kleynhans has played Varsity Cricket since 2018 and his experience came in handy in this trophy winning team. Edumisa Dlulemnyango (NWU) The second medium pacer in this line-up is NWU’s Edumisa Dlulemnyango, a promising prospect who made his debut in Varsity Cricket as a first year. The youngster kept his nerve in the final picking up 2/22 in his four overs. He also picked up 6 wickets throughout the tournament at a tidy economy of 6.6 and average of 18.8.

The Team from the Western Cape, against all the odds, defeated the University of Free State to win the 2022 men’s varity 7s championship at Tuks Stadium UWC and UFS served up a final of the ages as both teams served thrilling and nail-biting rugby. The finale was undoubtedly the best fixture of the day. Here is a wrap of the final and all the other men’s games that were played. Mens Finals: UWC 21 – 19 UFS A colossal final was on the cards as UWC took on UFS to determine the men’s 7s champions. Peter Williams drew first blood for UWC however UFS immediately bounced back courtesy of Shaine Anderson. The tactical gambit of power play then came into effect as Ferdinand Vergottini scored. The entrainment was being served on a platter as Peter Williams scored again to see his team within reach of UFS. The score was 19-14 in favour of UFS at halftime. The second half saw UFS come under sustained pressure from UWC,l and it eventually told as Tasriq Mynhardt scored a memorable try for UWC to take the lead again. The match was a final for the ages as UWC were crowned 7s champions beating UFS 21-19. Mens Position 3/4 match UJ 10- 31 NWU A third-place finish and bronze medal was at stake when the 2019 champions UJ took on NWU. Aphelele Madaka scored for NWU to take the lead. Brandon Keevy then pounced on a loose ball error and scored at the end of halftime to make it 12-0 to NWU. Keenan Tweeg and Calvin Clark made certain of victory when he scored the Eagles third try and fourth try to put UJ to the sword. Max Williams put the cherry on top with a fifth try. UJ’s Sphesihle Nkabini Nkondlo Radebe scored two consolation tries and the game ended 31-10. NWU came in third while the 2019 champions UJ finished fourth. Mens Position 5/6 match Maties 24- 7 Madibaz The match started at a snail’s pace with no team showing the ascendancy. It was only towards the end of the half when Romano Jonkerman scored the first try of the match and it was 7-0 at halftime. The second half was also a cagey affair but Maties managed to get a second courtesy of Anton van der Mesch. Maties then made a certainty of 5th place as Mathew Van Schalkwyk scored a power point try. Madivaz added a try at the end as Chadwyn November scored the last try of the game. Maties finished the tournament in 5th place and Madibaz in 6th. Men’s Position 7/8 match UP-Tuks 36 – 17 Wits The home side was playing for 7th after the tournament had been suspended due to lighting. Tuks came out of the blocks firing with two tries from Buhlebethu Planga & Campbell Willemse. However, Wits scored a power play try and were level after a conversion. Zander Reynder gave the home side the lead again but Wits bounced back again in a thrilling half of rugby that ended 17-17. The second half saw Tuks blow away their opposition with 3 unanswered tries. Wits could not respond to the second half and lost 17-36. Tuks finished the tournament in 7th place while Wits finished 8th. Afternoon Sessions Mens Semi-Final 1: UWC 24 – 14 NWU The first semi-final was an enticing fixture with both teams looking to book a place in the final. Tasriq Mynhardt took advantage of the power play and scored a u10 point try for the team from Western Cape. Jason Cloete soon made it two tries in succession and UWC were looking like a team on a mission. NWU’s Keagan Taigg scored a try right after the end of the power play with the score 19-7 into halftime. The second half saw NWU claw their way back as Max Williamson narrowed the deficit to a mere 5 points and it was all to play for. Momentum was undoubted with the NWU but UWC broke their hearts at the death with a try from Angelo Rudolph to take a 24-14 and book a place in the final. Mens Semi-Final 2: UJ 5- 31 UFS A mouthwatering second semifinal lived up to the billing as champions took on the contenders. UFS stunned the champions as Chad Adams scored two tries in succession, giving the Orange Army all to do. UFS were unplayable and scored a power-play try courtesy of Kyle Thompson and it was getting ugly for the defending champions. Chad Adams scored his third try and it was 31-0 going into halftime. UJ were playing for pride in the second half as they had a mountain to climb to consider a comeback. Asemahle Mafenyana got UJ’s first points of the game, but the team had to surrender their champions status and lost 31-5 to UFS. Mens Position 5/8 Playoff: UP-Tuks 19- 22 Madibaz The knockout stages of the tournament saw the 5/8th playoff match to see who’ll advance to the 5th place final. The home team were caught napping when Onothanto Sobopa gave Madibaz the lead. The home side however scored to level the scoring thanks to Pierre Fourie with the score 5-5 at halftime. There was a crescendo of noise early in the second half when Buhlebethu Planga put in the pace and scored to give the home side the lead. Tuks suffered a double whammy with a sin bin and conceded a power play try as Sibalomzi Mqeni scored for Madibaz. Momentum was with Madibaz as they eventually put the game to bed as Byrce Collins scored for Madibaz. Tuks got the last say with a try but eventually lost 19-22. Men’s Position 5/8 Playoff: Wits 12 – 40 Maties The side from Stellenbosch got on the board first as Maties Anton van der Mescht showed his quality in attack. It went from good to better as Brett Arnold sidestepped 3 defenders to give Maties a comfortable cushion. It was raining tries as Wits were drowning courtesy of Stefan Smit and captain Frederick Van Zyl who gave Maties a 26-0 lead at halftime. Wits got on the board in the second half but once again Maties outclassed the team from Johannesburg courtesy of Stefan Smit. Simemela Nkomo pulled another try for Wits. Maties put the icing on the cake and scored their fifth try to win the match 40-12. Morning session: Madibaz 31 – 17 Wits The morning session of the Varsity 7s matchday 2 kicked off with Wits and Madibaz. With all to play for on the final day, teams were looking to book a place in the knockout stages. Chadwin November of Madibaz gave his team the lead early on. But it was short-lived as Kevin Hlupheko of Wits jotted down. With the half on the brink of conclusion, Reece Cambier got Madibaz’s second try and they led 14-5 going into the second half. In the second half, Madibaz showed why they were the better team overall and scored a third try courtesy of Khakhalethu Bophi and followed that up with a power play try by Byrce Collins. Wits speedster Thando Ngcelwane scored a consolation power play try as the match ended 31-17 to Madibaz. UP-Tuks 0 – 27 Maties Tuks vs Maties began with the latter invading the opposition s try line and the pressure eventually told as ever-consistent captain Frederick Van Zyl scored the only try of the half to go into the half with a 7-0 lead. The power play which was proving to be an exciting tactical gambit saw Maties Anton van der Mescht extend his team’s lead to 17-0. Stefan Smit and Brett Arnold had two more tries for the team from Stellenbosch and the home side Tuks were humbled 27-0. UWC 24 – 17 UJ The defending champions were on a mission. of redemption following Friday’s derby defeat and got out of the blocks early and scored courtesy of captain Mpho Khubeka. UWC however we’re not going to be a pushover as they scored on the break with big man Shain Oderson giving his team a slender lead. A sin bin for the Orange Army saw UWC crucially extend their lead against 6 men. UJ clawed their way back before halftime as captain Khubeka scored a brace and it was 14- 12 to UWC at the break. UWC benefited early in the second half with a power play try and widened the gap. The Orange Army were livid when they scored a sensational try after calling a power play but it was only counted as a normal try. The match eventually ended 24-17 for UWC. UFS 29 – 24 NWU Ferdinand Vergotttini was at the right place at the right time and scored for Shimlas with an early lead. Max Williamson however capitalized on a power play try and it was NWU who was in the lead. The team from the North West extended that advantage courtesy of Wendall Osula but Stiaan Genis had the last say in the half and scored, making it 14-17 to UFS at halftime. UFS coach called a power play early in the second half and his team answered immediately with Chad Adams scoring a try on the wing. Ruben Cronje shoved a defender to the ground and scored but NWU made it a nervy ending by scoring a try and conversion. But it was not enough as Shimlas won 29-24

The team from Johannesburg were unplayable and unbeaten when they won their inaugural 7s championship. The Orange Army showed quality and class against the University of Fort Hare at the Tuks Stadium. Here is a match wrap of the final and the rest of the fixtures played on matchday 2. Final: UJ 17 – 5 UFH The finale of the women’s championship was a battle of the titans as both teams came in unbeaten. Precious Maduchem opened the scoring for the Orange Army. The match had the feel of a final as both teams gave it their all. UJ speedster Mardiya Usman showed an electric pace and put the Orange Army in firm control. However, Nobuhle Msomi scored a sensational solo try from the halfway mark for Fort Hare to half the deficit. 10-5 at halftime. Tanya Shava scored a contender for the try of the tournament with a monument run to give her team a 17-5 lead. UFH failed to score from a power play possession and the Orange Army won the final 17:5 to win their inaugural title in 2022. Women’s position 3/4 match: TUT 22 – 10 WSU TUT and WSU were playing for bronze and a podium place. Sinaye Mbombolo opened the scoring for Walter Sisulu and Emihle Mtyali doubled it for WSU but Karabo Mashego scored in the last second of the first half to make it 10-5 WSU and set up an enthralling second half. Vainha Ubisi of TUT dragged her way to the try line from halfway and suddenly TUT were ahead thanks to the conversion. WSU got a yellow card and Karabo Mashego got her second and a power play try to seal the third place for TUT winning 22-10. WSU came in fourth. Women’s position 5/6 match: Madibaz 0 – 17 UP-Tuks The home side spurred by their superstar player Miche Pretorius, scored as the clinical number 7 continued to shine. A horrifying injured halted the game. After the resumption Tuks scored their second try to go into the half 12-0. The second half was more of the same for Tuks as they scored their third try and comfortably cruised to victory Afternoon Session UL 7- 17 WSU Sinaye Mbolompo of WSU got the match underway with a try but it was going to be easy sailing as the University of Limpopo showed fight. WSU however proved too strong for the team from the North as Emihle Mtyali scored WSU’s second try. UL had the last say and scored the last try of the half to get 7-12 behind before halftime. WSU’s Sesuthu Mbodli extended her team’s advantage and scored for Walter Sisulu and had a 10-point cushion. WSU won the game 17-7 over UL. Madibaz 0- 43 UJ The Orange Army got off to a brilliant start with an early try. The match slowed down after that and it was on until the brink of halftime that UJ extended their lead as Nyasha Gonangombe scored the second try to make it 14-0 into halftime. The Orange Army then jotted down for a third try and were sitting in a comfortable position. Lethukthula Dlamini scored the fourth try and the tries kept on following after that. Nyasha Gonangombe got her second try of the match as UJ were making it hard for Madibaz to breathe. Tanya Shava put the icing on the cake as UJ blew out Madibaz 43-0 UP-Tuks vs TUT – Match abandoned due to lighting Morning Session Madibaz 0- 56 UFH The morning session of the women’s matchday 2 started with favourites UFH taking on Madibaz. The star duo of Nobuhle Msomi Qogi Inga scored for Fort Hare early and they were set to cruise to victory. The two teams were wearing similar black and yellow colours and could only be differentiated by UFH constantly scoring try after try. UFH went into the half with a commanding 22-0 lead. Fort Hare continued where they left off in the second and scored another try. Siphesihle Hlangani was proving not to handle and scored a power-play try with the score nearing half a century. Nombuyekezo Mdiki scored another try with a power bounce on the defender while Touto Zanele scored a brace and Fort Hare won the game 56-0 UL 10 – 28 TUT Thandise Job scored the opening try for the side from Tshwane and it was clear the University Limpopo were going to leave the tournament without a win. Ricca Kekana added the second try for TUT. Before halftime UL became complacent and sloppy and allowed Kekana to get her second try, making it 21-0 at halftime. TUT was having fun in the second half as the towering forward of Vainah Ubisi scored a try from her half-side-stepping defenders. There was joy and jubilation for the University of Limpopo when they scored a try that meant a lot to the bench thanks to Samkelisiwe Dlamini. Itumelebg Mkhari scored the second for UL to make it a respectable scoreline. Final score 28-10 to TUT UP-Tuks 15 – 22 WSU Miche Pretorius gave the home side the lead much to the cheer of the home crowd. Walter Sisulu was putting in a resilient fight but just couldn’t turn it into points. They were later punished when Miche Pretorius got her brace and took a strong 10-0 lead. Lunje Mpange grabbed one for WSU to cut the lead in half. WSU stunned the home crowd as Emile scored and ultimately took the lead following the conversion. WSU pilled in further misery by scoring a power play try and WSU had a 12-point lead. Miche Pretorius refused to give up and she scored a sensational hat-trick of tries giving her team a glimmer of hope. It wasn’t to be as WSU claimed victory over the home side 22-15.

DUT are preparing for their second Women’s Varsity Football campaign and hopes to improve on last year’s performance. The team from the Durban University of Technology lost all three group-stage games in 2021 and conceded 17 goals, while only finding the back of the net twice themselves. DUT are again in Group A with six-time champions Tshwane University of Technology, University of Pretoria Tuks and Wits University. Their first match is against TUT, who beat them 7-0 last year, but coach new Siyabonga Mthembu is hopeful the side can improve on last year’s campaign. “We aim to improve from last year’s results and display without putting pressure on our players,” Mthembu told Varsity Football. “We believe in team collective rather than individual praises. Our team is full of dedicated players who understand the task at hand.” PLAYER TO WATCH Nokwanda Xulu – The team’s captain is expected to showcase her great leadership skills. The attacking midfielder has shown great growth on and off the field, her coaches state. DID YOU KNOW? DUT made their Sasol League debut last year. DUT qualified for Varsity Football through the University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament last year. TEAM FACT FILE Nickname: FC Angels Province: KwaZulu-Natal Appearances: 2021 2022 SQUAD Goalkeepers: Sanele Mnisi, Samukelisiwe Shezi Defenders: Gugulethu Mdladla, Amanda Shelembe, Andiswa Mfeka, Zama Pretty Ngcobo, Ongeziwe Masango Midfielders: Sinethemba Simelane, Mpelasonto Gwamanda, Zime Buthelezi, Angel Ncalane, Ziyanda Sikakane, Nokwanda Xulu (captain), Nompilo Msomi, Nozibusiso Mjoli Forwards: Xolisisle Duma, Nontobeko Ndlovu, Hlengiwe Zuma, Ntombifikile Ndlovu, Nokwazi Sibiya, Sbahle Ndlovu TECHNICAL TEAM Head coach: Siyabonga Mthembu Assistant coach: Zamokuhle Dlamini Assistant coach: Andile Mavundla Goalkeeper coach: Tondo Mzobe Team manager: Zethembe Sikhakhane

Friday saw a festival of rugby games as the country’s top rated rugby university teams battled it out at Tuks Stadium for the 2022 edition of Varsity 7s rugby. Day 1 wrapped with thrilling rugby, upsets, drama, passion and emotion as the 12 matches played brought excitement and entertainment. Here’s how it all went down. MEN’S Match 4 (M): UP-Tuks 14 – 7 Wits The hosts kicked off the first game of the mens edition of the competition. The temperature for the day matched the intensity of the match as Campwill Willemse scored a sizzling try after evading a defender with a massive hand-off. Liyema Matoylweni made it 7 a piece after he scored the try and conversion, but Bayanda Ngubane scored at the death at the end of the half to make it 14-7. The teams were deadlocked in the second half with no tries scored. This meant that Tuks won their game 14-7 much to the delight of the home crowd. Match 5 (M): UJ 41-14 NWU The defending champions were stunned early on with a blistering try from Joubert Schoeman. The Orange Army replied instantly as Sphesihle Nkabini scored and the conversion was taken to make it 7-7. UJ then capitalized on a power play try worth double and they were suddenly 19-7 ahead. Despite the heat, it was raining tries as Nkondlo Radebe touched down to make it 24-7 at halftime. NWU were dealt a major blow as Wendal Osuala got a yellow card and then UJ scored instantly to put the game out of reach courtesy of Asemahle Mafenyana. Calvin Clark got a consolation try for NWU but UJ scored again from their second unit team to run away 41-14 victors. Match 6 (M): UWC 19 – 19 UFS UFS touted as possible challengers for the title made their intentions clear with a try from Litha Nkula. Ferdinand Vergottini scored the second try for the University of Free State but the team from the Western Cape got one back from Shaun Ordeson to make it 14-7 going into halftime. UWC were slowly growing into the game and scored a power play try from Almore Kuilders and the game change on its head at 19:14 to UWC. The tie however was a rollercoaster as UFS scored an equalizing try by Kyle Thompson and the match ended in an entertaining 19-19 draw. Match 7 (M): Maties 17-5 Madibaz Perennial title contenders Maties came in as early favorites and it told with a try for Sibusiso Mhlom. Captain Fredrick Van Zyl extended his teams lead as one try became two as the team went in 12-0 ahead. The second half which was a slow burner compared to the first saw Vernon Oaly extended Maties lead to 17-0. Madibaz weren’t going to take the result lying down and scored a consolation try from Byrce Collins. 17-5 the end result. Match 11 (M): UP-Tuks 17-34 UFS The home side were shell-shocked in front of the home crowd as UFS took total domination benefiting from a a try from Khanyisa Hlengwa and a power point try from Ferdinand Vergottini. UP-Tuks replied but UFS continued to extended their dominance by adding a third try. Chad Lee Valentine scored the home teams second try and the halftime score was 24-10 to UFS. The end to end match was fast paced and Stiaan Gennis further extended Shimlas’s lead to make it 10-29. But the home side weren’t giving up as Chad Lee Valentine scored his second in a thrilling game. Ruben Cronje put the game to bed and it was 34-17 to UFS who outclassed the home side. Match 13 (M): UJ 47 – 7 Madibaz The Orange Army weathered the early storm from Madibaz as they sustained intense pressure and scored two tries courtesy of Siphesihle Nkabini and Asemahle Mafenyana. Nkondlo Radebe made it a third try which was also a power point and UJ were comfortable going into halftime. With confidence growing Tyreeq February extended the champions lead to 33-0 Madibaz scored early in the second half to try and make it a respectable score line as Byrce Collins scored to make it 33-7. But the Orange Army showed their dominance once again Tumelo Schaune and Akliyame Thomson finished off Madibaz. Final score 47-7 Match 13 (M): Maties 5-24 UWC Maties steadily handled the game and scored courtesy of their captain Frederick Van Zyl who led from the front. However UWC stunned Maties and took the lead by scoring a try and conversion courtesy of Kyle Thyssun, 7:5 to UWC at halftime. An upset was on the cards after UWC scored another try with Maties found shaking. UWC put the exclamation mark on the game and scored a power point try and made it 24-5. The biggest upset of Saturdays fixture Match 14 (M): Wits 29-31 NWU The equally matched sides exchanged blows from the onset with each team scoring a try. But it was Wits that seemed to want it more. Wenrich Aucamp and Eben Hyman extended Wits lead taking a 17-7 lead into halftime. NWU came out fighting in the second half and narrowed the lead down. The power play then changed the game on its head as NWU quickly took the lead. But it was short lived as Wits equaled their total courtesy of Kevin Hlupheko. With the scored tied at 24-24 Calvin Clark snatched the lead for NWU. But Wits just didn’t want to lie down and scored a last gap try but missed the conversion to narrowly lose 29-31 to NWU Match 18 (M): UFS 14-27 Madibaz At this stage of the tournament Shimlas were playing sensational rugby and never gave teams rest bite as Stiaan Genis opened the scoring. The forward had impressed for Shimlas and was their best player by a mile. Izak Smith scored UFS’s second and went into halftime with a 14-0 lead. The second half was relatively quiet until UFS Laurens Oosthuizen was sent to the sin bin for a cynical challenge. The yellow card saw Madibaz scored two tries including a power play try from Brandt Fields. Madibaz were suddenly moments away from victory. Captain Kyle Cyster sealed victory with a lovely team try, which saw them overcome a 14 point deficit and win 14-27 Match 19(M): UWC 19-22 Wits Towards the tail end of match day one, Wits and UWC exchanged blows and tries as Siyabonga Xulu scored for Wits first with a power play try while Nicolas Chimpanje replied for UWC. But as the half ended, Wenrich Aucamp caught UWC sleep and saw the side from Joburg go 17-7 at halftime. UWC came strong in the second and cut the deficit to just 3 points. The match was getting intense as both teams were searching for a possible winner and it was Thando Ngcelwane of Wits who extended his team lead to 22-14. But the unpredictability of 7s rugby showed itself as UWC scored a try, but it wasn’t to be as they lost 22-19 Match 20 (M): Maties 19-33 NWU The game between the two came as loadshedding hit at 4PM, however the rugby on stage lit up the crowd. NWU scored their first try thanks to Max Williamson. While MatiesElzandro Fredricks got the crowd on its feet with contender of try of the season. Maties responded at the end of the half to reduce the score making it all to play for in the second. Maties went straight to business in the second as Brett Arnold and Gustav September staged a dramatic comeback. But it wasn’t over as NWU staged a comeback of their own and eventually took the lead 21-19. NWU put the game to bed and scored a power play try and the game was eventually won 33-19. Match 21 (M): UJ 12-7 UP-Tuks The last game of Friday for the mens teams was a Gauteng derby which promised to excite. Surprisingly it was a tentative affairs as both sides failed to register a try in the first half but not without action. UJ were dominant but Tuks were in it thanks to the support of their home fans. The second half was a different affair as Tumelo Schane scored to give the defending champions a 7-0 lead and advantage to the Orange Army. There was a crescendo of noise towards the end as the home crowd tried to spark a comeback for their team and it payed through as Ambesa Zenzile scored a dramatic power play try to give Tuks as dramatic 12-7 win

A golden double for the hosts marked a wonderful return to the turf for Varsity Hockey. Absence most definitely made the heart grow fonder! Men’s Final: Tuks vs. Wits It may have been four years, but Tuks came into the tournament as the defending champions having won the title in 2018. For Wits qualification for the final already gave them their best return in Varsity Hockey history, that wouldn’t be enough though for the men in yellow. The opening quarter though could not have started worse for the visitors as a dominating opening quarter saw their captain Guy Morgan convert not once, but twice from a penalty corner to make it 2-0 to the hosts. Wits though came out firing in the second quarter and started to work their way back into the game. They did exactly that when Luke Lourens netted from a penalty corner, and they were given another huge momentum boost when Mark Strickett saved from a stroke denying Guy Morgan a hat trick. That momentum was rewarded when Wits equalized through captain Brad Riley converted from a quick-thinking penalty corner. But the momentum pendulum swung again when Brad Sherwood executed a perfect penalty corner for Tuks to lead 3-2 going into the final quarter. Sherwood made it 4-2 with a powerful strike that was overturned on a referral, but Morgan completed his hat-trick to get that score line minutes later. But with 7 minutes remaining the gap was halved again by a Michael Horan bullet. With two power plays still to come! There was however no change to the scores and Tuks defended their crown to be champions of Varsity Hockey once again. Final Score: Tuks 4-3 Wits Women’s Final: Tuks vs. Maties The 2013 winners Maties took on the hosts and 2017 winners Tuks in front of a capacity crowd at the University of Pretoria. Maties had dismissed the defending champions NWU in the semi-finals with relative ease while Tuks had been taken to a shootout by UFS having been unable to find the net in 60 minutes of action. They only took 60 seconds to find the net in the final though as a speculative through ball was deftly finished home by Bulelwa Mzimela. Her touch was so precise that the umpire referred to it just to make sure. 2-0 to the hosts in as many minutes. Maties had to work their way back into the game and found themselves level with a wonderful individual effort from the mighty impressive Rebecca Kaps. The goal will go in coaching videos for a focus on the determination. Maties persistence and dominance were starting to tell, and their pressure saw a penalty stroke awarded which Mikkela le Roux finished off superbly. 3-2 the maroon army led heading into the final two minutes. Tuks called the Power Play and put immense pressure on the Maties defence and were rewarded with a penalty stroke with 60 seconds on the clock. Captain Tegan Fourie stood up and led her team with glory with a double goal due to the power play that sent the fans crazy in the stands! Tuks are the champions of the Varsity Hockey Women’s Tournament. Final Score: Tuks 4-3 Maties Men’s Third Place Playoff: Maties vs. UJ Two-time winners UJ were disappointed to miss out on the final, but they wanted to take home the bronze medal. They met a fired-up Maties side though who roared into a 3-0 lead early on thanks to a Jacques van Tonder penalty corner and a two-point field goal by Ben Proctor. The Orange Army though fought back and pulled a single goal back through Dechlan Bennett from a Penalty Corner, continuing a good two days for him. They then pulled level as Kenoe Christians dived spectacularly onto the ball to slide home. But it was Maties who had the last laugh. They first had a goal disallowed on review before Kenton Melville finished an instinctive opportunity for the double goal and the last defining moment of an enthralling game. Final Score: Maties 5-3 UJ Women’s Third Place Playoff: UFS vs. NWU Both sides would have harboured ambitions far loftier than the bronze medal but would want to end the tournament on a high by winning the opening game of the final day of action. After an incredibly tentative and cagey affair, North West University finally broke the deadlock just before the halftime break. A brilliant referral saw a penalty corner upgraded to a penalty stroke which captain Kirsty Adams finished emphatically for a 1-0 lead. It was a lead they would never look back on as Christa Ramasimong, another player named in the South African squads, was pulling the strings and made it 2-0 from a penalty corner variation. They put the game to bet through a Tamlyn Kock 2-point field goal and Jacolene Mclaren netting a powerplay penalty corner to make it 6-0 and secure a bronze medal for North West University. Final Score: NWU 6-0 UFS

The women’s team of Wits University only make their second appearance in the Women’s Varsity Football tournament but are keen to better their semi-final exit from last time around. The Smiling Assassins are in Group A alongside record champions the Tshwane University of Technology, the Durban University of Technology and the University of Pretoria Tuks. In 2021, Wits surprised many by finishing the group stages unbeaten and securing a semi-final spot ahead of TUT, but they were beaten 4-0 by eventual winners the University of the Western Cape in the semis. This time around, Wits want to go one round further and reach the final, despite participating with a largely new team. “We just want to do our best, trying to get to the final if it’s possible,” assistant coach Steve Matlou told Varsity Football. “But there are some challenges because we are working with a new team, but we look forward to competing in our second tournament.” PLAYERS TO WATCH Lesego Nkoane – aka Beast – bosses the midfield, scores goals and tracks back to help in defence. She is a team player and a marvel to watch. Erin Herz – a defender, with lots of experience. Plays club football at JVW Girls. DID YOU KNOW? Wits won the bronze medal at the 2019 USSA Football National Club Championships and were named Team of the Tournament. Lesego Nkoane played for the SA U20 team, while Nthabiseng Ramaisa represented SA U17. TEAM FACT FILE Nickname: Smiling Assassins Province: Gauteng Appearances: 2021 2022 SQUAD Goalkeepers: Nthabiseng Emily Ramaisa, Vuyiswa Hope Saba Defenders: Amogelang Rachapela, Sanele Mkhize, Ofentse Malape, Megan Tayler Wade, Magogodi Litlhakanyane, Erin Herz, Makhomu Rolindela Midfielders: Lerato Tshabangu, Lusanda Kuzwayo, Itumeleng Maphala, Anelise Mbatha, Jemma Meintjies, Lesego Nkoane, Carina De Assis Lopes, Ashante Mattera Strikers: Sakhiwo Mnomiy, Ayanda Mnyembane, Ndiehenge Malose, Koena Maselesele TECHNICAL TEAM Head coach: Siphesihle Ngalmane Assistant coach: Steve Matlou Goalkeeper coach: Moegamat Jacobs Sport Scientist: Yunata Andrews Team Manager: Kelebogile Mochine

After a 3-year absence, Varsity Hockey returned in a reduced format, but one that offered everyone a glimpse into the quality of the tertiary hockey sides in the country. The format being a straight knock out put immense pressure on all teams as an immediate stumble would be a final stumble. Women’s Semi-Final 1 Tuks vs. Kosvies The 2019 defending champions and hosts Tuks were the favourites for this game and their International laden side took charge of the game from the start. They dominated circle entries, outcomes, shots and goals, possession and probably even the parking lot. What they were unable to do was dominate the score line as a resolute defensive performance, largely inspired by goalkeeper Hartley, kept the star studded Tuks side at bay. The game would go to a penalty shootout to decide the finalists. At the end of the day the quality of the hosts shone through winning the shootout 3-1 with Amelie Claasen in goal proving to be the hero as she denied 3 Kosvies strikers. FINAL Score – Tuks (3) 0-0 (1) UFS Women’s Semi-Final 2 Maties vs. NWU A far less cagey affair greeted us in the second semi-final. Maties, who have just won the Western Province club league were looking to continue their league form in the Varsity Hockey event. They were ahead with a two-point field goal from Ongi Mali who converted with some sorcery behind her back after wonderful work from Kayla de Waal. A penalty corner bullet from van Biljoen halved the deficit as the ladies from Potchefstroom looked to turn the match on its head. Despite their best efforts, including a short period when Maties had just 6 players on the park, they could not breach the maroon wall. Caylin Maree essentially settled the game with a sublime solo effort (They will make documentaries about this goal in future). Further gloss was added to the score line by two-point field goals by Kayla de Waal and Rebecca Kapp. Final Score – Maties 8-1 NWU Men’s Semi-Final 1 UJ vs. Wits The two Johannesburg sides got their first Varsity Hockey adventure in four years slightly postponed as load shedding interrupted proceedings. When they did come out there was a lot of bite in one of the biggest derbies in South African Hockey. Wits have had the upper hand in recent seasons and led through a goal from Namibian International Liam Hermanus whose reaction finish was of international standard, giving Wits a 2-0 lead. UJ managed to strike back through a penalty corner with excessive force that bundled its way over the line for Dechlan Bennett, halving the deficit. They were rocked though by a Michael van den Berg field goal just after the half-time break that stretched the lead to 4-1. Instead of breaking the resolve of UJ, it appeared to inspire them and Kenoe Christians scored one of the fine strikes in Varsity Hockey history. He picked up the ball, created his own space and finished with the precision of a professional Darts Player. Unfortunately for UJ it was to be only a consolation as the game was put to bed by a 5th and final goal for Wits, a rocket from Luke Lourens that would make Thor the god of Thunder proud. Final Score: Wits 5-3 UJ Maties vs. Tuks Both sides featured some top-quality players as they lined up for the final game of the day. It was Tuks though who made the quality count almost immediately when they struck through Jared Campbell after a slalom freestyling run from Brad Sherwood. The goal gave the hosts a 2-0 lead that would last exactly 15 minutes. At almost the same time of the second quarter as the first a goal was scored. Rohniel Terblanche threw his body on the line to keep an errant ball in play, his wonderful efforts were rewarded with an opportunity popping up to captain Peter Jarvis. The young man who has just been called up to the SA national squad made no mistake with a deft touch to level the match. As the titanic tussle between two thought leading coaches continued to play out it felt like a game that was destined to find its ending in a penalty shootout. Fortunately for the hosts that feeling was about as correct as my lotto numbers every week. From a penalty corner the ball struck a defender on the line, Guy Morgan converted the stroke and minutes later Trevor de Lora got the days first Power Play goal to put the game to bed, with a warm blanket and a story. Final Score: Tuks 5-2 Maties The women’s hockey final between Maties and Tuks will take place on 6 October at 15:00 The men’s hockey final between Tuks and Wits will take place on 6 October at 18:30 Both games will be at TuksHockey Astro and broadcast live on SuperSport

Maties are the Varsity Cricket champions after a commanding batting display took them to a 5-wicket victory against the NWU at the Tuks Oval. Maties captain, Lehan Botha played an assured captain’s innings of 25* (29), whilst Don Glover 21* (8) finished the game off with two fours and a massive six to put the cherry on top. SA u.19 captain, George van Heerden with 35 (28), also played a major part in sealing the deal for a deserving Maties outfit who put a master class on chasing a target in a pressure-filled final. The Maroon Machine reached its target of 162 with 14 balls to spare the powerplay in both innings gave Maties the advantage they needed to seal the deal and lift the crown. Chasing 162 for their first Varsity Cricket victory, the Maties got off to a speedy start reaching 40/2 after two frenetic overs. Ethan Cunningham looked in supreme touch with 20 (6) before he lost his wicket to JP King. Maties continued on their merry way with Van Heerden 35 (28) providing momentum in classy innings as they chipped away at the target. Edumisa Dlulemnyango (2/22) bowled Van Heerden to give the NWU a glimmer of hope, but by then Maties were already cruising to victory with a required run rate below 6 an over. Glover just added the knockout blow with boundaries to put NWU out for a 10-count. ded to bat making the perfect start when in-form openers Eben Botha 56 (38) and JP King (75 off 53) put on 118 for the first wicket. This was also the highest opening stand of the tournament as Botha and King both smashed the ball to all parts laying their willow on anything loose. The left- and right-handed combination frustrated Maties as they accumulated 89/0 after the first 10 overs. Maties will also not be happy with their fielding having dropped a couple of chances in a crunch game early on. They finally got the breakthrough in the Powerplay over when the Player of the Tournament, Benjamin Ward, got the crucial wicket of Botha after the latter tried to up the scoring rate. Ward showed he had the magic arm when he also got the wicket of NWU captain, Chris Britz in the same over for a duck to turn the game in Maties favour. In the next over, the pick of Maties bowlers on the day, Phillip Kleynhans (2/18), struck as Heinrigh Pieterse was dismissed LBW for a golden duck. In the next couple of overs, the Maties had the upper hand with tight and economical bowling as they managed to restrict NWU to 161/5 with great death bowling. The NWU will feel that they ended 20-30 runs short after such a fantastic opening partnership. This proved to be the case as Maties’ supreme ability in chasing targets in this tournament once again came to the fore as they can now add the Varsity Cricket title to their trophy-laden cabinet. By Wouter Pienaar Scorecard: NWU: 161/5 – 20 overs Maties: 164/5 – 17.4 overs Maties beat NWU by 5 wickets Suzuki Player of the tournament: Benjamin Ward (Maties)