The North-West University (NWU) Young Guns (YG) stormed into the semi-finals of the FNB Young Guns 2024 after demolishing the UWC YG by 41-14 in Bellville on Monday, 8 April 2024.

After serving up an electrifying first half, the NWU YG led by 20-0 at the break, with the UWC YG not looking to come back. A thumping second-half display by the NWU YG ensured that they secured the maximum points and extended their unbeaten run – with six wins from six outings. The NWU YG cruised into the semi-finals at the top of Group B, having 29 log points, followed by the Maties YG (17), and the UWC YG (10), while the UJ YG completed the group with 9 log points.

Although the match was played under tough conditions, coach Hannes Esterhuizen commended his players’ performance.

“Strong wind, it was raining, and we had to play a different game compared to the one we like to play. We usually play a wide and open game, but in these conditions, we could not play that way. The boys adapted very well, and were very disciplined,” said Hannes Esterhuizen.

Kraynu Kruger (hooker), Johan Derrick van Zyl (left lock), Jean Jooste (right flanker), Stephen Taylor (number 8), Colen Steenkamp (scrum half), Jay-Tee Goerge (right wing) and Jamaine Dampies (full back) scored the seven tries. The magic boot of Duan du Toit(fly half) located three conversions for the NWU YG.

Next, the NWU YG will host the UCT YG at the Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds on Monday, 15 April. The two sides have not met previously, making this a highly anticipated fixture.

“Play-off games are always tough, and what happened in the previous six games will not count on the day because it is a win-or-lose fixture. We have to be at our best if we want to go through,” Hannes concluded.