SWD used their strong, heavy and physical pack top dominate up front and denied the more agile Tuks backline quality possession. Tuks had to be content with the proverbial scraps but even so players like Dirk Dippenaar (wing) and Gertjie Smith (fullback) looked dangerous with ball in hand.

The local referee did not help Tuks’ cause by letting the home side get away with illegal scrumming, at least two late tackles and blatant off-side play.

Tuks’ try was scored by AJ le Roux. Gertjie Smith succeeded with the conversion and a penalty goal.

• In another development, TuksRugby announced on Friday that the Varsity Cup opening matches on 1 February have been moved from the Tuks Rugby Stadium to the adjacent Tuks Athletics Stadium.

Tuks play Pukke and UJ will cross swords with TUT.