Maroon Machine set for epic FNB Varsity Cup Women's Final

The FNB Varsity Cup Women's final between FNB Maties Women and FNB Tuks Women is shaping up to be an exciting showdown, with both teams eager to secure the prestigious title.

FNB Maties Women, who narrowly lost to FNB UFH in last year’s final, are hungry for redemption. Under the leadership of new coach Aneesah Adams, they are determined to make their mark.

The 28-year-old from Somerset West has instilled resilience in the team throughout the season, and the Maroon Machine is poised for success. The Maties women’s team also hopes to set the stage for their male counterparts, who will be contesting the FNB Varsity Cup final against FNB Ikey Tigers.

Adams is fully aware that, despite being the only unbeaten team in this year’s competition, all of that will mean little if they fail to secure the final victory.

"We are going to make sure we are well-prepared, both physically and mentally, to bring home the trophy," says Adams, who described reaching the final in her first year as Maties mentor as special."

“Reaching the finals as a coach in my first year at Maties Rugby is an incredible feeling—it’s a mix of pride, excitement, and validation of all the hard work put in by the team over the preseason. It shows that the preparation, strategy and commitment have paid off.”

Even though her debut season as coach has come with challenges and growth, Adams remains focused on guiding the team to victory, especially as the University of Stellenbosch celebrates the 150th anniversary of Maties rugby.

On the other side, FNB Tuks Women, under the guidance of coach Lizanne Jacobs, enter the final with renewed determination. The Stripe Generation ladies have shown tremendous progress and resilience throughout the season, and Jacobs is confident in her team's ability to rise to the occasion.

“We’ve built a solid foundation throughout the season, and we are ready to step up for the final. Our focus is on executing our game plan and staying composed under pressure,” says Jacobs, signalling her team’s readiness to challenge Maties for the title.

As both teams prepare for a thrilling encounter, the stage is set for a final that will not only showcase the strength of South African women’s rugby but also highlight the bright futures of two exceptional teams.

Starting XV:

Erin Bond, Juan-Mari Du Plessis, Sesethu Ntamnani, Sarah Krone, Lekobane Maria Masebe, Stefney-Rose De Vries (vice-captain), Ankia Viljoen, Ziane Muller, Taliyah Bussack, Elme Kruger, Shanidine Bezuidenhout, Zelmari Pretorius, Elizabeth Slabbert (captain), Jade Nicole Daniels, Kayleen Muggels.

Replacements:Sesethu Dumke, Sisipho Mkeli, Jihaan Benito, Taebron Jursa, Mijeane Fyer, Joelle Botha, Kirsten Brits, Karabo Masilela.

By: Adnaan Mohamed.