After narrowly avoiding the relegation playoffs and finishing 6th in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup campaign, FNB UJ will look to avoid the same mistakes in this year’s offering. The Orange Army showed moments of brilliance and scored some of the season's most memorable tries, but struggled to close out games they were controlling.
The Orange Army have a mounting challenge in their opening match, facing CUT Ixias in vengeance from last year’s 23-19 loss in the round-robin phase.
“Its definitely going to be a tough one. For our opening game, we would be on the road, but for the first time in three years we will be getting an opportunity to start at home,” said Jonathan Mokuena, head coach of FNB UJ.
This shift in the team's schedule presents a unique chance to set the tone for the season.
However, the road to success has not been without setbacks. Mokuena acknowledged the loss of 10 players due to academic failures, a setback that added a layer of complexity to their preparations.
“I have lost 10 guys due to failing their exams. That was a bit of a bummer, but all universities are struggling with that,” Mokuena explained.
“These are all players that have been played nicely over their last two seasons, and this is their opportunity to try.”
Looking ahead, Mokuena stressed the importance of mental strength in overcoming these challenges.
“The big thing for me is the mental aspect. If you look at our scrum and lineout, I don’t think it was bad, it’s just that at times the focus wasn’t there,” he said.
This recognition of the team's mental fortitude as a key factor for success led Mokuena to take proactive steps in addressing this weakness.
“We brought in a mental coach, someone who has worked with NFL teams in the US,” Mokuena revealed.
Provisional squad (subject to change):
Adriano Jackson, Alzeadon Felix, Angelo Dube, Asemahle Mafenyana, Berwyn Bosch, Bian Janse van Resnberg, Damian Bakker, Dylan Viljoen Flank, Francios Prinsloo, Gidaan Hurter, Gumi Leshoro, Jarred Jordaan, Jayden Ballie, Jayden Pringle, John Ford, Joshua Du Toit, Kamo Molefe, Liam Rowan, Marnus Swarts, Melusi Sibiya, Mihle Matinise, Muzuva Gutu, Niel Hensen, Oela Blaawu, Reon Pretorious, Ruven Ferreira, Ryan Marimo, Sfiso Dlamini, Sibahle Phangela, Siyasanga Ali Gqaza, Siyemukela Ndlovu, Walter Moyo, Zian Cilliers.
Fixtures: HERE
Tickets: HERE
By: Karabo Peter
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