This coming weekend the Villager Rugby Club in Cape Town will play host to the 2016 Varsity 7s event for the second year in a row and a certain side from Stellenbosch will be looking to win back the trophy they last won in 2014.
After finishing in a disappointing 7th place in last year’s competition, Maties have worked hard in their preparation to be a powerhouse again this weekend. Captain, Pieter Schoonraad is relishing the opportunity to lead his side to success, although he knows the tough challenge that awaits his side at the tournament.
“There are some really strong sides in the competition and they will be really tuff to beat, but we will just focus on sticking to our basic game plan and do what we do best,” said Schoonraad.
Last year it was Kovsies from the University of Free State that were crowned champions after a dominant performance throughout the three days. Maties will kick off their campaign on Saturday morning against arch rivals, UCT, in what promises to be an epic clash. They also face UWC, WSU, UFH on Saturday and will conclude their day’s action in a massive game against Tuks.
On Sunday Maties will tackle UJ, Madibaz, NWU-Pukke and the UFS Kovsies in what will also big matchups. The Varsity 7s tournament has proven to be a platform for all universities to be competitive, where upsets occur regularly.
Maties Varsity 7s squad:
Pierre du Toit, Pieter Schoonraad, Stephan Streicher, Tanner Lightfoot, Francois Myburgh, Angus van Niekerk, Miko de Wet, Malcolm Kayes, Morne Taljaard, Dale Paulse, James Murphy, Carlisle Nel, Paul de Wet, Kyle Steyn, Jason Worral, Josh Moon, Brandon Sher-Wood.
By Andre Huisamen
