FNB UJ extended their unbeaten home streak with a confident performance against FNB UFS Shimlas on March 16.

The Orange Army, determined to bounce back after a crushing 87–28 loss to FNB UCT last week, delivered a controlled and disciplined display to secure a 26–17 victory.

Read more: FNB UJ bounce back after away loss

The game started very cautiously, with both sides probing for openings and eager to get on the scoresheet. The deadlock broke just 20 minutes into the first half, when UJ hooker Francois Prinsloo powered through the Shimlas defence, giving the home side the first points on the board.

Moments later, winger Mnelisi Gamede sliced through the Shimlas defence with ease, crossing the line for his side’s second try. JT Kapank coverted both scores, putting UJ ahead 12–0.

With the fans cheering them on, UJ continued their momentum, exploiting Shimlas’ cracks in defence. Prinsloo scored his second try before halftime, and UJ went into the break leading 19–0.

Also read: UJ makes bold statement with rugby win at home against FNB Emeris

The Orange Army picked up where they left off at the start of the second half, as left flanker Toy Engelbercht pushed the advantage to 26–0 with the added muscle of left centre Reuven Ferreira to power their way through.

Shimlas responded with urgency, as scrumhalf Erich Visser scored twice for the away side, but, despite the brace, UJ held firm on home soil, and called it game when a late penalty from Kapank sealed the win. Shimlas’s Faasen Laubscher’s late try had the last say in the dying embers of the match, but it wasn’t enough.

With this victory, UJ are still unbeaten on their home turf, and keep their dreams alive for a semi-final berth, denying Shimlas a late comeback.

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