Tuks still have to play three first round matches. The prize for the winner is the much sought after Lucas Strachan Shield.

It’s never wise to tempt fate, but on current form one can hardly foresee Tuks losing to either Brits (Saturday, 16 May) or Eersterust (30 May). That makes a win against TUT, Tuks’ 2008 Carlton Cup final opponents, of critical importance.

In their match against the then unbeaten Naka, injuries and illness forced Tuks to make last minute changes to the starting line-up. Tuks nevertheless always look the more finished and skilled side, impressing with the interplay between forwards and backs.

Scorers: Tries: Gerrit Smit (2), Pieter Gothan (2), Danie Crous, Erich van der Westhuizen. Conversions: Stanley Twiname (3). Penalty goals: Stanley Twiname (3).

Other Tuks results:

Carlton II: Tuks-Fezelas 20, Naka Bulle. Carlton III: Naka Bulle 37, Tuks-Pumas 3. Carlton o.21A: Tuks-Jongspan 36, Naka Bulle 3; Polisie 22, Tuks A 5.