Excitement was at its peak as the FNB NWU Eagles faced off against the FNB Maties in a gripping second-round Varsity Cup 2025 encounter at the Fanie du Toit Rugby Field. The atmosphere was electric, with fans rallying behind the Eagles, eager to witness their team defend home turf. However, despite a valiant effort, the Eagles fell just short, with Maties securing a narrow 29-27 victory in a nail-biting contest.

Match Recap

The match began with an explosive start, as Grant de Jager opened the scoring for Maties following a well-executed line-out play. However, the Eagles responded swiftly, with Isrome Phatudi showcasing his agility to glide past defenders and touch down for his side. Both teams’ flyhalves, Christiaan van Heerden Smith for Maties and Stehan Heymans for NWU Eagles, successfully converted, bringing the score to 7-7.

Maties regained their lead when van Heerden Smith slotted a penalty through the posts. Shortly after, Naiden Jaarts capitalized on a brilliant move from a scrum, scoring another try for the Eagles, with Heymans converting once again, making it 14-10. A penalty from the Eagles' flyhalf extended their lead to 17-10. However, Maties showed resilience, responding with two crucial tries from Ryan Manuel and Fortune Mpofu to edge ahead 22-20 at halftime.

The second half saw Maties maintain their momentum, as Ezekiel Ngobeni sprinted down the touchline to score another try, with van Heerden Smith converting, stretching Maties’ lead to 29-20.

Refusing to back down, the Eagles fought back with a try from Divan du Toit, with Heymans converting to bring the score to 27-29. The home side had a golden opportunity to snatch victory in the dying moments, but Heymans’ last-minute penalty attempt sailed wide, ensuring Maties walked away with a hard-fought win.

Match Scorers

NWU Eagles: 27 (20)

Tries: Isrome Phatudi, Naiden Jaarts, Divan du ToitConversions: Stehan Heymans (3)Penalties: Stehan Heymans (2)

Maties: 29 (22)

Tries: Grant de Jager, Ryan Manuel, Fortune Mpofu, Ezekiel NgobeniConversions: Christiaan van Heerden Smith (3)Penalties: Christiaan van Heerden Smith (1)

FNB Player That Rocks:

Christiaan van Heerden Smith (Maties) – The flyhalf was instrumental in Maties’ victory, contributing with accurate kicking and game management.

Team Line-Ups

NWU Eagles:

Alethwa Buthelezi, Chyle van Zyl, Ntobeko Shezi, Tsepo Tlaka, Stephan Krugel (C), Guhan du Bois, Tian van Zyl, Sean Roulston, Divan du Toit, Stehan Heymans, Joubert Schoeman, Isrome Phatudi, Matthew Fortuin, Naiden Jaarts, Luan van der Walt.

Maties:

Prince Mulea, Armand Combrink, Herman Lubbe, Zuko Poswa, Carel van der Merwe, Fortune Mpofu, Luan Botha, Ethan Snyman, Ezekiel Ngobeni (C), Christiaan van Heerden Smith, Grant de Jager, CJ Marx, Ryan Manuel, Joel Leotlela, Elridge Jack.

Though the NWU Eagles fell short, their fighting spirit was evident throughout the match. With more fixtures to come, they will look to bounce back stronger and make a statement in the Varsity Cup 2025.

This thrilling contest showcased the raw talent and determination of both teams, with Maties proving just a fraction stronger on the day. The close scoreline and high-intensity gameplay reflected the competitive nature of the Varsity Cup.

Adding to the prestige of the occasion, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus was in attendance, observing the next generation of rugby talent. His presence undoubtedly inspired the young players on the field, offering a glimpse of potential future Springboks in action.

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