FNB Wits outplay FNB WSU to clinch FNB Varsity Shield title

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.

The Wits Blues went into the match as favourites and they lived up to those expectations, beating their counterparts 44-18.

Wits had already secured automatic promotion to the Varsity Cup before the final, while WSU finished in second place on the log.

In the semi-finals, the boys from Johannesburg thumped FNB Madibaz 68-10 and WSU edged FNB UWC 42-32 at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium.

The final had it all, from drama to suspense and it was WSU who had the brighter start with a penalty early on through fullback Isiphe Mbini.

That early blow sparked the hosts to life and what followed was pure dominance.

They 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 completed 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 but it was too little too late as Wits claimed the title.