NMMU lose opening Varsity Cup encounter

[caption id="attachment_67751" align="alignright" width="300"] ON THE CHARGE: NMMU Madibaz's Robert Louw hands off an NWU-Pukke player during their Varsity Cup match in Potchefstroom yesterday Picture: SASPA -[/caption]

NMMU Madibaz opened their Varsity Cup campaign with a 36-26 defeat at the hands of NWU-Pukke at the Fanie du Toit Stadium in Potchefstroom yesterday.

our yellow cards and a red card took the edge off what was a thrilling try-fest as the momentum of the match changed hands with regularity.

Tries by Rhyno Smith, Rowane Beukman and Jeandre Rudolph saw Pukke lead 15-5 at half time. Captain CJ Velleman scored for the Madibaz.

In the second half, Dalen Goliath and Dean Stokes crossed for the Pukke, while Smith was successful with a conversion and three penalties.

A never-say-die Madibaz hit back with tries by Brian Skosana, Tythan Adams and Yamkola Ngam of which two were converted by Ruan Allerston.

Skosana went from hero to villain in the 72nd minute when he received a second yellow card after he was penalised for not ensuring the safety of the defending player under a high ball.

Other results: Shimlas and Tuks drew 29-29, UJ beat CUT 46-10 and Ikeys and Maties drew 32-32.

-The Herald Reporter