‘Must Win’ for Ikey Tigers Tonight

Tonight, the Ikey Tigers take on UJ on the Green Mile in Round Seven of the Varsity Cup. Due to the fact that it is the final set of matches in the pool stage, the competition is sure to be tense between the two sides.

The Tigers currently find themselves in fourth place on the overall log, in contrast to UJ, who sit in the sixth spot. However, with only 3 points separating the two sides, and only 2 points separating the Ikeys and fifth-placed-Maties, the game is critical for both UCT and UJ.

Following the Ikey’s 24-44 loss to Shimlas last week, coach Kevin Musikanth spoke about it’s impact on the rest of the season: “The plan is simple, in many respects. Although UJ can make the semi-final, they have to get a full card of points against us, and other matches have to go their way.”

He went on: “They are a tough challenge, but the reality is that a win puts us in the semi final, which is our end goal. With the win, we either end third of fourth, so our preparation is as simple as the equation: the match is a must win.”

Both UCT and UJ have won three games each in the 2015 tournament so far, but the men from the Cape have the slight upper hand given that they have lost only two, and drawn once, while UJ lost their other three games.

The Ikeys also seem to have more significant momentum going into the game, given that they lost 24-44 to Shimlas, while Round Six saw UJ lose 0-34 to Tuks.

Putting aside the statistics and probabilities, Musikanth is aware of the unpredictable nature of the game: “The game of rugby is swings and roundabaouts, and in the end what is meant to be will be, and the right team will win the competition.”

The UCT vs UJ game kicks off at 18:30 tonight so make sure you make your way down to the Green Mile to voice your support. For those unable to attend, the match will also be broadcast on Supersport.