Varsity Cup final preview (part 1): Ikeys pumped for title decider

21/04/2024 13:38

The UCT Ikeys know they are up for the fight of their life when they take on UFS Shimlas in the final of the 2024 Varsity Cup in Bloemfontein on Monday. 

IT’S IKEYS VERSUS SHIMLAS FOR THE 2024 TITLE

The Ikey Tigers advanced to a third final appearance in four years and second successive title decider match, having also contested the final in 2021 and 2023.

And now, as Ikeys go in search of a third-ever Varsity Cup, fullback Duran Koevort admits that the task ahead will be all the more difficult because it will be played in front of the partisan Bloemfontein crowd.

“I think you can expect much of the same from us as in the semi-final (against NWU Eagles), our willingness to play and go at it for the full 80 minutes,” the backline ace said.

“I think we all know the game against Shimlas will be a tough one and now playing them in a Varsity Cup final and away from home will make it that much tougher, but Ikeys will be well prepared and come out fighting on Monday night.” 

VARSITY CUP UP FOR GRABS

The Cape side’s leading point scorer, Ntokozo Makhaza, says Ikeys have to be prepared for a different kind of challenge against Shimlas than the one they faced and overcame in the Varsity Cup semi-final against the Eagles last week.  

“I wouldn't say it will be a repeat (of last week) because Shimlas is a different team to the Eagles. We're excited for the game. Last week was a good performance, but we think we can play better, and we want to do that on Monday.” 

Loose forward Enos Ndiao shared his teammates sentiments, adding that the team has done its homework on Shimlas and feels that they can match them in every facet of the game in the Varsity Cup final.  

“We have a lot of respect for them and what they've done in this competition. They've got a really good pack and quick backs so I'm sure they'll plan well for us. We'll look to remain patient with the ball in hand and stop their set piece.  

“We just believe we've gone on this journey of a lot of highs in the past few years for some players and others this season. The main thing for us is although we've had our highs, we haven't reached the peak which is lifting the Varsity Cup trophy.  

“Ultimately it's been the goal, and it would be so special for us to do it this year.  We know it's not just about us but about our families, supporters and coaches and it’s going to fuel us come Monday.” 

Article source: Varsity Cup