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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)

Former Banyana Banayana coach Anna Monate is looking to go further with the University of Johannesburg this season and feels hosting the showpiece is a major advantage. The highly respected coach left tournament giants Tshwane University of Technology for a new challenge at UJ but fell at the semi-final stage in her first tournament. Having lost 2-1 to the University of Pretoria after a late own-goal, they will now be aiming to challenge TUT and reigning champions University of the Western Cape to lift their second title. Anna Monate joined UJ from TUT because she wanted a new challenge. The 53-year-old mother of two boys will be the oldest coach in this year’s Women’s Varsity Football tournament and is eager to help UJ win their second title. “Yes it’s an advantage [for our squad] with everything like we train, play there and are used to the weather and environment,” the coach who steered Banyana between 2006 and 2008 said. “Most of the players are the regulars in both structures of our league senior side and development side and we train together. PLAYER TO WATCH Monate has warned there’s more than one to look out for amongst a talented crop of players Shannon Maccom, Angela Munaisi, Thubelihle Shimase and Sphumelele Shimase are the ones she feels will be the difference makers. DID YOU KNOW? UJ won the inaugural Varsity Football women’s tournament in 2013. TEAM FACT FILE Nickname: Orange Army Province: Gauteng Appearances: Eight (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021) Titles: 1 Biggest win: 6-0 against TUT Biggest loss: 4-0 against TUT 2022 SQUAD Goalkeepers: Elizabeth Mazivise, Avela Wotini, Bontle Hobyane Defenders: Lerato Lefa, Shannon Macomo, Kabelo Mokoena, Lungile Khumalo, Boitumelo Rasehlo, Ntsandeni Munasi, Queen Ntsoelikane Midfielders: Bryden Mokobi, Sthembile Sandleni, Sphumelele Shamase, Ayesha Moosa, Mbali Sibindi, Nontobeko Mthabela, Liya Sarfudin Fikile Bapela Forwards: Thubelihle Shamase, Lesego Nhlapo, Refilwe Maseko, Nazneen Khan, Zara Wilkinson, Petunia Mabasa. TECHNICAL TEAM Head coach: Anna Monate Assistant coach: Delisile Mbatha, Nthabeleng Modiko Goalkeeper coach: Lucky Shiburi Physical Conditioner: Kgotuwe Tswai Physiotherapist: Sibongile Jongwa Compliance officer: Mpho Mohalane Video analyst: Oriel Bagani Media Officer: David Sootho Kit manager: Mpho Mohalane Team manager: Alphina Mokwena

After three bumper weekends of action in the 2022 Varsity Netball tournament, all eyes will be on Bloemfontein and Stellenbosch on Monday (10 October) for what is expected to be two pulsating semi-finals. At 17:00 defending champions, Kovsies and NWU (winners in 2015 and 2016) will take to the court in the Callie Human Hall. Last year’s runners-up Maties then host first-time semi-finalists UJ in the clash of the Maroon Machine against the Orange Army at the Coetzenburg Indoor Centre at 19:00. Kovsies vs NWU Kovsies, on the hunt for a record fifth Varsity Netball title, had a stumbling start to this year’s competition with back-to-back losses against Maties (53-57) and UJ (43-54). Coach Burta de Kock however wasn’t fazed, saying “We managed to work out different combinations and we are excited to get another crack at it.” This they certainly did, beating arch-rivals Tuks in round 5 (58-48) and winning the see-saw battle Monday against the Eagles (65-60), now standing between them and a historic feat. At the beginning of the tournament, NWU coach Elsunet du Plessis told Varsity Sports the aim this year “is to get a spot in the semi-finals”. Despite Monday’s nail-biter and a narrow loss against Maties (51-56) earlier in the tournament, the team’s 9 bonus points pushed them to second position on the log after the round-robin stages. Looking at the Varsity Netball semi-final history between Kovsies and NWU, the 2022 edition between these two university powerhouses is squaring up to be a tightly contested affair. Kovsies were victorious in 2014 (51-45) and 2021 (66-65) while NWU went on to the final in 2015 (56-48) and 2017 (53-37). Head-to-head record (all matches since 2013) – Kovsies 8; NWU 5; one draw (45-all, 2014) – Biggest victory: Kovsies 76-52 (2021); NWU 58-36 (2016) – Closest margin: Kovsies 66-65 (2021); NWU 48-44 (2017) Maties vs UJ Maties are appearing in their seventh consecutive Varsity Netball semi-final with the hope to advance to the final for the fourth time and claim their first title. For the second year running, the Stellenbosch team is also the only undefeated team in the competition, with their biggest win coming over TUT (86-21) while they managed to sneak past UJ (44-42) and Tuks (57-55) in narrow victories. Danielle Esterhuizen during the Varsity Netball match between Madibaz and UJ at Coetzenburg Sports Centre in Stellenbosch on 27 August, 2021 But as coach Zanele Mdodana indicated before this year’s competition even got underway, “The focus is not on winning … We are ready for a life-changing experience.” And what a transformation coach Bongi Msomi has engineered at UJ in the last couple of years. The Protea captain managed to turn 30+ goal defeats in 2019 to just a handful in 2021 and this year into victories over Kovsies (54-43) and Tuks (53-51). Apart from the two-goal loss against Maties in round 4, UJ’s only other defeat came against NWU (60-48) in this year’s first match. Three weeks ago UJ assistant coach Nomsa Zungu said all they wanted to do this year was perform well, “It’s not about how many games we win, but it is about setting up our own goals and then achieving them.” Mission accomplished. Head-to-head record (all matches since 2013) – Maties 9; UJ 0 – Biggest victory: 69-27 (2017) – Closest margin: 47-46 (2013; 44-42 (2022) *Both semi-finals are broadcast live on SuperSport. by Liryn de Jager

The only two undefeated teams of the tournament, NWU and Maties, will go blow for blow tomorrow (Wednesday, 5 October at 12:00) in the highly anticipated 2022 Varsity Cricket final at the Tuks Oval. Pound for pound, Maties and NWU are equal in this tournament if one looks at the balance and depth of both squads. These two teams have also shown elements of ruthlessness and composure during the tournament. Interestingly, Maties have won all their games batting second, whilst the NWU have won all their matches batting first. Tomorrow only one team will be the undefeated heavyweight champion of 2022 Varsity Cricket. Hat-trick hero puts Tuks in a spin and Maties into the final Maties bowlers’ tore through Varsity Cricket tournament hosts and defending champions UP-Tuks this afternoon in an 8-wicket victory in the first semi-final. Maties leg-spinner, Benjamin Ward (4/9), took a hat-trick and four wickets in his first over to take the stuffing out of Tuks. He caught and bowled Keagan Lion-Cachet with his second ball of the over, and then proceeded to claim a famous hat-trick with balls 4,5 and 6: Matthew Boast (caught) for 0, James Richie (bowled) for 0 and Merrick Brett (LBW) with another first ball duck. Ward’s heroic performance epitomised this superbly balanced Maties’ team who dismissed Tuks for only 76. Phillip Kleynhans finished off the tail with 3/21. In reply, the Maroon Machine strolled to victory with the in-form George van Heerden easing to 42* (30) with 6 fours and a six to win the game with 53 balls to spare. Scorecard: Tuks: 76 all out – 13.4 overs Maties: 79/2 – 11.1 overs Maties beat Tuks by 8 wickets NWU Eagles secure final spot after a narrow win against CUT The NWU were just too polished for a fighting CUT-outfit in the second semi-final as the Potchefstroom-based side qualified for a showdown against Maties with a 5-run victory. A miserly team bowling performance was just what the NWU needed as Hardus Coetzer (1/22) and JP King (1/24) showed good temperament in a do-or-die match. CUT looked down and out, until Delano Williams 26* (9) revived hopes with some massive shots in a final powerplay over that added 32 runs to CUT’s score. JP King of NWU during the Varsity Festival cricket match Semi-final 2 NWU Potch v CUT on Tuesday 04 October 2022 at LC de Villiers/Tukkies Photo by Christiaan Kotze/ C&C Photo Agency for Varsity/ AsemEngage The second semi-final was a much tighter affair between the NWU and CUT with the NWU opting to bat first. For once, Eben Botha or Chris Britz did not trouble the scorers as the CUT bowlers got stuck in early reducing NWU to 28/2. JP King looked in good touch before losing his wicket for 36 (23) to CUT bowler Franklin Damons (2/22) Although boundaries were hard to come by, the left-handed, Heinrigh Pieterse, contributed a handy 48 (41) and Taheer Isaacs a surefire 28 (22) to take the NWU to a defendable total of 157/6. It proved to be just enough, as CUT fought until the end to bow out with their heads held high. Scorecard: NWU: 157/6 – 20 overs CUT: 152/6 – 20 overs NWU win by 5 runs Amm goes out with a bang as Madibaz beat UJ Mark Amm with 78 (37) was the hero for the Madibaz as his knock lead them to a resounding five-wicket win against UJ in the battle for fifth place in the tournament. The Madibaz had to chase 134 for victory and did that with 22 balls to spare thanks to Amm’s blistering innings that included 11 fours and 3 sixes at a strike rate of 211. To put Amm’s innings into perspective, no other Madibaz batsman could move past 20 in the chase. Earlier, Ethan Frosler (4/11) and Mark Amm (2/23) were the top bowlers for the Madibaz as they reduced UJ to 58/6 at one stage. UJ’s needed a bit of luck and Lucky Mofokeng provided with a feisty inning of 39 (39) to take UJ to 133 all out in 18.4 overs. Scorecard: UJ 133/10 – 18.4 overs Madibaz 134/5 – 16.2 overs Madibaz win by 5 wickets Mpongwana gives UWC a sweet victory against Ikeys UWC completed an easy 7-wicket victory against UCT-Ikeys in a Cape derby to end their tournament on a high note. UWC’s Abubaker Samodien (4/30) and Mihlali Mpongwana (3/27) were too hot to handle for the UCT-Ikeys batsman as they collapsed to 116 all out. Mpongwana used the momentum of his bowling performance to add 41 (40) with the willow. Together with Lwando Tywaku 28 (27), the pair took UWC to an assured victory with 26 balls in their locker. UCT-Ikeys end their tournament winless, although they did put on a couple of top performances in patches during the tournament. Scorecard: UCT 116 all out – 15.5 overs UWC 117/3 – 15.4 overs UWC win by 7 wickets

All that former UJ all-rounder, Delano Potgieter, needed was a chance to perform on the big stage. He knew he had the talent to entertain and the will to succeed. When the Varsity Cricket show rolled into Potchefstroom, Delano knew that the spotlight could be shining on him. Kitted in orange and black, he formed a key part of the UJ Army who enjoyed several top tournaments in Varsity Cricket in the past few years, most notably finishing as runners-up in 2019. Delano took his opportunity with both hands on the fast and frenetic Varsity Cricket stage. A left-handed ball striker of note and a mercurial right arm pacer, Delano proved to be the perfect fit in a hungry and exciting UJ side. “The Varsity Cricket tournament was an amazing tournament for a lot of players. It got me on the South African cricket map. My fondest moment of Varsity Cricket was being able to play in anything other than our whites. It was an honour to play in the black and orange kit something at that time I haven’t done before,” states Delano. Delano scored 237 runs (5th highest) in the 2016 tournament and added 262 runs (3rd highest) in the 2019 edition playing a key part in UJ’s success with the likes of Ryan Rickelton, Joshua Richards, Stefan Klopper and Neels Bergh forming a solid batting line-up. If UJ needed a big wicket or some quick runs at the top of the order, Delano with his right arm medium pace was there to deliver. If you added his former UJ teammates, Joshua Richards (Lions batsman) and current SA Proteas batsman, Ryan Rickelton, to the equation then these three would entertain crowds at will in a boundary festival of note. “The intensity of Varsity Cricket is high, especially when playing in front of crowds coupled with the pressure of being on television. There is no better way to showcase your talent than on live television. At a young age, Varsity Cricket already gives you a taste of what is to come on the next level,” mentions Delano. This talented cricketer and Marais Viljoen old boy made his first-class debut for Gauteng in 2015 and represented the Lions with distinction at franchise level for numerous seasons. Delano also featured for the Jozi Stars in the 2019 Mzansi Super League. His consistent good form got noticed at national level and he was chosen for the SA Emerging team for a tour to Namibia in 2021. Since making his debut in Varsity Cricket back in 2016, Delano has climbed the ranks of South African domestic cricket and transformed into one of the key all-rounders for the North West Dragons side. Last season he was the Dragons bowler with the golden arm in the 4-day format taking numerous key wickets. He also took a liking to the white ball in the shorter format, hitting crucial runs in the middle order. Delano’s versatility and being able to smash a ball at will, has made him a sought after T20 cricketer – just ask the Mumbai Indians Cape Town franchise who was keen enough to buy him for a base price of R 175 000 ahead of the inaugural SA20 tournament in 2023. “I am extremely excited about the opportunity of SA20. I was having dinner with one of the coaches that’s been working with me for a very long time, so when they called out my name it was pretty special. I am super excited and can’t wait for it to start,” says Delano. The 26-year-old has also met some of his best friends through Varsity Cricket. Two former UJ teammates attended his wedding as groomsmen. “Ryan Rickelton and I still have contact, as well as Neels Bergh who was my captain at UJ. They were both my groomsmen at my wedding. Varsity Cricket guarantees good friends and good cricket.” According to Delano, Varsity Cricket presents a fantastic opportunity for young cricketers to gain as much experience as possible, especially as some top domestic talents are also part of the 2022 edition. “Play your hearts out and learn every day and from everywhere you can. Some of the Varsity cricket players may have played franchise cricket, so ask them all the questions you have.” Just like Delano, there will be youngsters this year ready to shine in the spotlight when the cameras start to roll. An opportunity of a lifetime awaits in Varsity Cricket.

The Tshwane University have dethroned the University of Johannesburg to lift their third Varsity Football title. It was a highly-anticipated final between the two best sides of this year’s Varsity Football tournament and the game which promised fireworks was living up to expectations. The first 25 minutes of the match were an evenly contested affair, with TUT creating some half chances following set pieces. UJ had a decent attempt in the 27th minute but Philane Masondo’s shot went wide off the target. TUT eventually opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, when Kutloano Manamela found the back of the net with a stunning volley. However, their lead lasted just one minute as Thanda Madiba found the equaliser from a tight angle after being set up by Thulani Zandamela. UJ almost scored their second goal in injury-time of the first half but Tebogo Lekaba cleared the ball off the line. TUT then went close in the first minute after half-time but a cross by Hendrick Xaba was blocked by Neo Lebopa. Madiba had a decent chance with a free-kick in the 59th minute but his attempt flew over the bar. TUT eventually found the winner in the 83rd minute, which came via an own goal by Maselesele Makoti after fine work down the right flank from Tumelo Hope Moeng. UJ tried to find another equaliser but it wasn’t to be, leading to wild celebrations of the Red Army. Coach Bushy Moloi was seen dancing on the sidelines as his troops lifted their third title after 2016 and 2018. The Varsity Football team would also look to express their best wishes to injured TUT defender Siphosethu Mkhize, who had to be stretchered off the pitch in the dying minutes of the game. Score: UJ 1-2 TUT Goals: 32’ 0-1 Kutloano Manamela, 33’ 1-1 Thanda Madiba, 83’ 1-2 Maselesele Makoti (OG) Man of the Match: Tshiamo Mahome (TUT) UJ starting XI: Lona Richard Banga, Maselesele Makoti, Neo Lebopa, Siphiwe Manana, Thanda Madiba, Sanele Ndlalane, Ndabezinhle Nkosi, Advocate Mokwena, Thulani Zandamela, Gerald Ndlovu, Philane Masondo TUT starting XI: Sikhumbuzo Ncube, Sanele Nene, Tebogo Lekaba, Kutloano Manamela, Siphosethu Mkhize, Alan Majo, Andile Yamile, Hendrick Xaba, Tshiamo Mahome, Tumelo Hope Moeng, Tshepiso Mnisi