Pressure on UJ in run-in to semis

With six of the eight sides still in line to make the Varsity Cup semi-finals, UJ now simply hav to win their matches against winless NMMU (at home) and the Shimlas (Iin Bloemfontein) in the last two rounds.

UJ are now fifth the log - tied with Shimlas, who have a better points differential and have climbd to the top four.

Shimlas in their other match have to play Tuks in Pretoria.

The Ikeys looked the better team in the first half on Monday night and also took their opportunities when it mattered after the break in an absorbing FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International fixture.

The visitors were allowed to run freely from the kick-off and the ensuing 50-metre kick put the visitors ahead within in the first minute. And there was more poor tackling that gave UCT opportunities to go back on attack.

Thereafter, the Ikeys Tigers often preferred a kick from the ruck to put pressure on UJ who, when they had the rare opportunity to run in between penalties, looked dangerous. But poor options and finishing cost them, despite their rucking in the second half - when allowed - setting up some good (squandered) possession.

UCT led 17-13 at half-time but the in the second half, with the penalties marginally less, UJ started to dominate up front and set up some good possession - but average options cost them.

However, a drive from a lineout led to a try after 65 minutes by never-say-die UJ hooker Edgar Marutlulle which was converted by André Smith to bring the scores level at 23-all in the last quarter.

Then, again, it was poor defence that gave the visiting Ikeys the edge.

UJ were marginally on top, but a poor clearance gave UCT the chance to attack from their own half and wing Marcello Sampson, with a great hand-off and good speed, scored for Doug Mallett to convert with just seven minutes remaining.

In the end, the score from Sampson (pictured) - the leading try-scorer in the history of the Varsity Cup - separated the two sides and handed UCT a fourth win of the season, having, of course, drawn their opening match of the season against Shimlas.

The scorers:
For FNB UJ:
Tries: Killian, Marutlulle
Cons: Luus, Smith
Pens: Luus 3

For FNB UCT:
Tries: Van Tonder, Sampson
Con: Mallett
Pens: Rosslee 5, Mallett