This article may contain graphic and/or adult content unsuitable for minors and sensitive readers.
The NMMU Madibaz claimed their first ever FNB Varsity Cup semi-final berth last night following a 13-7 defeat of defending champions University of Pretoria, in Port Elizabeth.
The PE students have now won all four home games this season and their first ever victory over Tukkies proved crucial as they edged NWU-Pukke on points difference for a spot in the playoffs.
Meanwhile, Pukke lost 37-34 to table-topping Maties in Stellenbosch but their two bonus points from the match was not enough to move them past the Madibaz.
Earlier, the University of Johannesburg denied Shimlas victory when scrumhalf Vian van der Walt scored two late tries to salvage a dramatic 26-26 draw in Johannesburg.
The result meant Shimlas could not qualify for the semi-finals.
UJ ended third to set up an all-north semi-final showdown with Tuks in Pretoria next week.
NMMU will travel to Stellenbosch to take on the unbeaten Maties in their coastal semi-final derby.
In Cape Town, 2011 champions the University of Cape Town held off a determined Wits side to secure their first win of the season by 50 points to 40.
In the Varsity Shield, Central University of Technology continued their unbeaten run with a comprehensive 36-12 victory over Fort Hare in Alice.
