FNB Madibaz flyhalf Raashied Conrad showed off his full arsenal of skills as he turned in a man-of-the-match performance against FNB WSU in the FNB Varsity Shield round 5. The young pivot was easily the most influential player on the field in their 36-14 away victory over the Mdantsane team, scoring a try and slotting a penalty and four conversions for a personal tally of 16 points.
Afterwards, he described his effort as “definitely one of the best I have had all season as well is in the Varsity Shield” after unsurprisingly being named the Player that Rocks.
Conrad, who matriculated from SACS in Cape Town in 2023, was one of the exciting young talents added to the Gqeberha squad last year by coach David Manuel and his investment based on pure faith is clearly starting to pay dividends.
There had been plenty to learn after exiting the school ranks, the player admitted, with the greater physicality and speed of varsity rugby the major hurdles to overcome.
“Looking back over the last 12 months, I feel my game has developed immensely,” Conrad said.
“Playing against opponents who are consistently at a higher level than what I was used to has helped me grow as a flyhalf, making me more confident and composed on the field.”
To adapt to the greater demands meant embracing higher standards in training and in the approach to matches.
“The game is more structured, requiring precise passing, kicking and defensive solidity,” Conrad explained.
Apart from tactical awareness and adaptability, he referenced fitness, recovery and professionalism as crucial at varsity level.
Conrad needed all the composure he could muster in a damp and muddy Sisa Dukashe Stadium against a combative FNB WSU outfit on Friday evening.
Their opponents thrive on a match situation that lacks discipline and structure, and it was up to the flyhalf to control the game.
His goal was to find a balance between managing the tempo of the game and distributing the ball to the right areas.
“Consistency is the key, it was certainly not ideal weather but what I tend to do is stick to the basics as if there are no weather challenges and just focus on doing my best.
“I’m satisfied with any successful kick, no matter the degree of difficulty,” he said while outlining his routine.
“The general approach is to visualise the conversion, prepare the set-up well, control my breathing, keep my head down and follow through. Most importantly, to trust the process.”
Fixtures: HERE
Tickets: HERE
By: Jesica Slabbert
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