Maties face a daunting trip to Potchefstroom, where the NWU Eagles boast a formidable home record ahead of Monday’s Varsity Cup semi-final.
The Eagles have been unbeatable at the Fanie du Toit Sports Ground this season, earning the right to host the knockout clash after finishing second on the log.
However, the Maroon Army arrive in red-hot form, having won four matches in a row to end third on the log and build momentum at the business end of the competition.
Maties also hold a slight psychological edge, having edged the Eagles in Stellenbosch in a round-six thriller two weeks ago. Maties won 30-26, underlining just how evenly matched the sides are.
NWU coach Burger van Westhuizen insists his side are focused on preparation rather than the pressure of the occasion.
“There’s work to be done and we need to prepare as well as we can. If you’re well prepared, it’s easier to handle a semi-final,” he said.
Maties won the league encounter between the sides 30-26 in Stellenbosch and skipper Ezekiel Ngobeni expects another tight contest.
“It’s exciting to be going again against NWU. Going to the Fanie will be a spectacle,” he said. “Both teams have gotten a taste of each other, so it should be another close game.”
Ngobeni says his side’s recent form has boosted belief.
“The confidence within the squad is building week by week. This stage of the competition is about enjoying the moment and playing quality rugby.”
Monday’s semi-final in Potchefstroom kicks off at 4:45pm.
Photo: Luigi Bennett/Varsity Sports
The post Maties, NWU set for semi-final thriller appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Maties face a daunting trip to Potchefstroom, where the NWU Eagles boast a formidable home record ahead of Monday’s Varsity Cup semi-final.
The post Maties, NWU set for semi-final thriller appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
