Varsity Cup: It's a numbers game

History or statistics may well not win matches, but the superstitious amongst us will nevertheless insist that FNB UJ has a distinct psychological advantage over Tuks even before these two neighbouring universities' actual clash on Monday, February 8 in the second round of the 2010 FNB Varsity Cup competition presented by Steinhoff International.

UJ got maximum points from their opening match, scoring four tries in their 28-14 win against FNB TUT Vikings. The points difference of 14 also secured second spot on the log for the Men from Johannesburg.

FNB Tuks, on the other hand, had a less promising start, losing to Pukke (35-24). Tuks are one of three participants who have a 'zero' to their name on the current Varsity Cup standings and will look back on the match against Pukke as one of lost opportunities.

And, the superstitious might well add that UJ has Tuks' number, having beaten them twice in the Varsity Cup; 41-19 in 2008 and 9-3 in 2009. In 2009, the match was played in pouring rain which made it almost impossible to run the ball.

Tuks felt aggrieved after the final whistle went as they truly believed that they scored a legal try which was not awarded. In the end, however, they had to make peace with UJ's win.    

Unfortunately for FNB Tuks, UJ head coach Hugo van As will sidestep one of the oldest potholes in rugby just as skilful as when he played centre for Transvaal.

UJ will not make the mistake of winning the game before it starts.

Earier in the week, Van As stressed the fact that Tuks have to be judged on the potential they showed in the match against Pukke and not the result.

He conceded that Tuks would pose a bigger challenge than TUT as they are dangerous when you set them loose.

As it is, Van As felt that his game plan was not executed well enough against TUT and he will expect an improvement from his team in this regard. This will ask for 100% concentration leaving no time for distractions like dwelling in the past.

Even though FNB Tuks mentor Freddie Grobler cautioned that the Varsity Cup is not won or lost in the first round, his team will be under more pressure than UJ. Traditionally, Tuks are slow starters and strong finishers, but the last thing Grobler would want is to start playing catch up as early as in the first half of the competition.

By Morris Gilbert