A team reveling in an unprecedented achievement, against one adamant to avenge a humiliating loss. This is the twin narratives when the Central University of Technology (CUT) squares off against the North-West University (NWU) in Bloemfontein on Monday, 25 March 2019.

CUT is coming off a remarkable win against big brother Shimlas while the NWU suffered a 28-0 defeat to Tuks in Potchefstroom.

That the NWU could not cross the whitewash nor dissect the space between the uprights is enough cause for redemption. They will not be underestimating a CUT side that will be brimming with confidence after dismantling Shimlas 38-35.

Despite two losses, the NWU still occupies third spot on the overall log with four wins from six encounters whilst CUT boasts three wins from six games.

Looking ahead to the playoffs, the NWU is sitting pretty on 19 log points with Tuks and Maties leading the pack with 28, although Tuks has played one more game. Shimlas lies fourth with 17 and CUT fifth with 14.

So, why then a must-win? Because confidence is key when the going gets tough. After Monday there is only one fixture against Wits left before the semi-finals. A win here seems likely and two resounding wins should see the NWU lay to rest the demons conjured by that 28-0 loss.

Kick-off is 18:30.