The Wits Rugby Stadium was packed to the rafters, the rugby on show was entertaining, and the spectators in attendance were given value for their money when FNB Wits hosted FNB WSU in this year’s final in Johannesburg on Friday.

During the semifinals, the boys from Johannesburg had thumped FNB Madibaz 68 – 10, as WSU edged FNB UWC 42 – 32 at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium. Having already secured automatic promotion before the final, the Wits Blues went into the match as favourites, and they lived up to those expectations.  On the night, WSU had a bright start after scoring a penalty early on through fullback Isiphe Mbini. That early blow sparked the hosts to life, and what followed was pure dominance.

Wits scored three tries within 20 minutes through Lindani Dweba, Latica Nela and loose forward, Liam Santos. Christopher Kachungunu and Tirhani Masondo joined the scoring action before the visitors hit back with two tries, thanks to Ahlule Zokoza.

At the halfway point, Wits led 27 – 13.  The hosts upped the intensity in the second half and scored two quick tries through Masondo and Dweba to extend their lead to 39 – 13. Wits continued dominating the clash, and Kachungunu sealed his brace after the 60-minute mark. The WSU-All Blacks, however, had the last say when captain, Lukhangele Tshayi, sliced through the Wits defence to score a consolation try for his side.

Final score: Wits 44 – 18 WSU

Scorers:
FNB Wits: (27) 44
Tries: Lindani Dweba X2, Latica Nela, Liam Santos, Christopher Kachungunu X2, Tirhani Masondo X2.

FNB WSU: (13) 18
Tries: Ahlule Zokoza x2, Lukhangele Tshayi.

FNB Player of the Match: Christopher Kachungunu (FNB Wits)

Teams:
FNB Wits: Ronan Dutton, Bonga Nxumalo, Meyer Opperman, Lian Terblanche, Hayden Munnery, Liam Santos, Christopher Kachungunu, Jamaal Feldman, Sherwin Buys, Rekkie Gerber, Lindani Dweba, Tirhani Masondo, Kamohelo Ncunca, Dustyn Holmes, Latica Nela.

FNB WSU: Mihlali Nohoyeka, Mangaliso Zixesha, Yoyisa Mahobe, Luvo zZindela, Azasakhe Phuwani, Siya Ncapay, Khanaye Mbakaza, Sipho Hobosch, Thembela Folo, Lukhangele Tshayi, Sosulwe Mqonci, Bulelani Nondlwana, Axola Mtalana, Ahlule Zokoza, Isiphe Mbini.

 

Courtesy Varsity Cup

You can check all the results and the log HERE