'Relieved' Brandt remains realistic

FNB NMMU coach Kolie Brandt remains as realistic as ever but the truth remains that his charges made Varsity Cup history against FNB TUT on Monday. Their 28-18 victory was their first ever in the FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International.

"I am very relieved," sighed Brandt in conversation with varsitycup.co.za. "It's actually nice to have made history - even if it took us some time!"

The experienced mentor admitted that his team's morale had sunk and that some self-doubt had started to creep in after a winless 2008 Varsity Cup and three defeats this season.

"When you find yourself at the bottom of the log in such a tough competition it becomes difficult for the guys to lift themselves because people then start to question your ability and preparation," he said.

But Brandt lauded his Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University charges for the character and determination they showed against TUT after they were reduced to 14 men for 50 minutes following fullback Oscar Mazaka's red card.

"That was an unbelievable effort from the guys. When the referee starts digging in his pocket, and it goes against you, it definitely plays on the mind... yet we rode it out well," the coach said.

In-form NMMU eighthman Jaco Swanepoel - who was instrumental in Monday's triumph - agreed, explaining that the performance "was a huge stepping stone for the team".

"Well done to the guys, they made me feel a little less guilty and very relieved," said Swanepoel, who was himself yellow-carded for a high tackle. "To keep TUT quiet during that time was remarkable."

While the Men from Port Elizabeth have taken a big step in terms of preventing another promotion/relegation battle this season, Brandt feels that it will be important for the team to build on their success.

"Naturally we can still improve on our performance, but what I really want to see is the players finally realising that they can compete at this level," said the NMMU coach.

NMMU's next match will be a tough one when they take on the Ikey Tigers - who beat Tukkies this past week - at Xerox NMMU Stadium on Monday, March 2.

Yet, the Men from PE have shown some real doggedness and fighting spirit which will make it a potentially uncomfortable trip for the Capetonians. Kick-off in this first-ever Monte Taljaard Trophy match is at 6.45pm. (The game will be broadcast live on SuperSport 1.)

By Heinz Schenk