The glass is half full at the FNB CUT Ixias

The spirit in the FNB CUT Ixias camp remains high and upbeat despite the Bloemfontein-based team fighting for their survival in the FNB Varsity Cup.

The Ixias started their campaign like a house on fire, securing back-to-back wins against UJ (29-13) and UCT Ikeys (23-19) in the first two rounds. However, injuries and suspensions to key players took their toll, causing the wheels to come off somewhat.

Despite a win against FNB Wits last week the Ixias remain in a position where they may have to contest the relegation play-off should they lose to the Eagles on Monday and UJ win their fixture.

Ixias coach Randall Modiba admitted that the loss to their city rivals was a setback, but he has seen plenty of positives from his team, which gives him confidence.

“The positive is that we are improving as a group of players, as a team, and in our combinations. The spirit in the camp is very high, and we are looking forward to Monday's game."

“We are disappointed that we let down our fans, who showed up in numbers at UFS on Monday. A good result was really on the cards, but I am so proud of the boys. Considering what they’ve been through, and even in the build-up to the game, they responded incredibly well.”

Despite the setbacks caused by injuries, the Ixias may have unearthed a gem in their new flyhalf, MC (Matthys) Malan. He has taken charge of the backline like a seasoned pro, despite not being a pivot and having only recently been converted to the position.

His performances have already caught the attention of Cheetahs coach Frans Steyn. Modiba believes the youngster has a bright future ahead of him, and this is another one of the positives.

“A guy like MC Malan is a versatile player, and that’s why we picked him to fill the massive boots left by Juan Smith.

“MC is a brilliant rugby player. There are still a lot of work-ons, and he understands that. Playing flyhalf is new for him – he prefers outside centre, wing, or fullback. But he is so versatile and has such great vision for the game that we backed him and showed confidence in him.”

On Monday, the Ixias face FNB NWU away in must-win encounter for both teams in Potchefstroom. The Eagles need a win to remain in contention for a semi-final spot while FNB CUT want to steer clear of the relegation zone playoff match if they finish in 7th spot on the log.

Fixtures: HERE 

Tickets: HERE