DANIËL BASSON AND SIMPHIWE NHLABATHI
Over the past few seasons it has become evident that UP-Tuks prefers to play a physical game of rugby, but with the ever changing rules in the tournament, even these multiple winners of the Varsity Cup have been forced to change their approach.
In his interview with VarsityCup.co.za, UP-Tuks captain Wiaan Liebenberg said that the team is ready to exploit their opposition with a new-found running style of rugby. These statements were supported in Tuks’ first match against UFS-Shimlas as both Daniel Kriel and Duncan Matthews ran in long-range tries.
Coach Pote Human has said from early on in the pre-season that he wants to instil belief in his players, not only in their own performance but also the teams’ performance. Human has made some changes after the first round, most notably the switch between Riaan Britz, who now moves to fullback, and Duncan Matthews who will play on the wing. The two centres also swap positions and Liebenberg now moves to his preferred position on the flank. The right combination and formation of players should provide continuity in the performance of the first fifteen.
This year’s Varsity Cup has been tipped to be the toughest one yet. Every team is capable of beating another on the day, which puts more pressure on the shoulders of Human and his charges as they search for their third title.
Be sure to back your boytjies. For more information on the Varsity Cup fixtures and results visit Perdeby.co.za.
Duncan Matthews
Full name: Duncan Victor Matthews
School attended: Swartland
Position: fullback
Derek Botha
Full name: Frederik Pieter Jakobus Botha
School attended: Hoërskool Duineveld
Position: hooker
Jermaine Kleinsmith
Full name: Jermaine Fabian Kleinsmith
School attended: Hoërskool Waterkloof
Position: left wing
Jacques Rossouw
Full name: Jacques Nelius Rossouw
School attended: Hoërskool Piketberg
Position: fullback
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