Tuks earn Varsity trophy for a record sixth time

FNB UP-Tuks secured their record sixth FNB Varsity Cup title with a dominant 31-3 victory over FNB NWU Eagles in the 2026 final on Monday night.

The season’s showpiece came down to a clash between the top two sides on the log, as Tuks hosted the second-placed Eagles in a rain-soaked and fully packed Tuks Stadium.

Rising to the occasion, the home side delivered a commanding performance, especially in defence, to outclass their opponents and cap off an outstanding campaign in style.

As anticipated the two titans produced a tightly contested affair from the first whistle.

It was the visitors who looked stronger, putting early pressure on the home side. However, the Pretoria side led 10-3 at halftime thanks to a penalty try.

Tuks, who had been locked at five Varsity Cup titles each with Maties, are now the most successful team in the competition’s history, with previous triumphs in 2012, 2013, 2017, 2021 and 2022.

• Thabang Mphafi, nr 8 and captain of the University of Johannesburg and a former SA U20 player, was named player of the series.

– SuperSport/Varsitycup.co.za