As close as dammit is to a swear word, so too is TuksRugby to securing a spot in the 2025 FNB Varsity Cup semi-finals.

Monday’s 26-17 victory over the NWU Eagles puts Tuks just one point away from qualification. With 21 points on the log, they currently sit in second place behind Maties (25 points), the only undefeated team and the first to officially book a semi-final spot. Shimlas and Ikeys follow with 16 points each.

While NWU Eagles trail with 11 points, they’re not out of the race just yet. If they win their last two matches and secure bonus points, they could still reach 21 points—keeping the competition wide open.

That’s why Tuks needs at least one more bonus point to secure their spot. However, head coach Dewey Swartbooi isn’t concerned with calculations—his focus is singular: Tuks must be better than they were against NWU when they face Maties in Stellenbosch.

Next Monday’s clash is shaping up as a Varsity Cup final dress rehearsal, with both teams having everything to play for. Maties Rugby Club celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, and their squad will be determined to uphold their legacy. On the other hand, Tuks has a point to prove after their Varsity Shield campaign last year. No team has ever won the Varsity Shield and Varsity Cup back-to-back.

Then there’s the ultimate prize—Varsity Cup bragging rights. Both Tuks and Maties stand as the most successful teams in tournament history, each with five titles.

Swartbooi admits he struggled to sleep on Monday night after his team's victory over the NWUEagles because he was so excited.

"The players passed a character test against the Eagles. In the first 20 minutes of the game, as they say in English, we were 'under the pump.' The Eagles had us pinned down behind our 22-meter line. To make matters worse, one of our players was sent off with a yellow card. Yet we only conceded three points and even scored a try. It took real guts from the players to do what they did.

"What also excites me is that the Tuks' backline made the most of that one chance to score. The biggest mistake we can make against Maties is to think we will beat them by taking them on in the scrums and lineouts. Maties have a formidable pack of forwards. It will be important for our backline to create scoring opportunities and to capitalise on them."

Swartbooi makes no secret that lock Rauld Hatting has impressed him.

"How he played reminded me of the Springbok lock Victor Matfield played. He dominated the lineouts, putting the Eagles' forward under constant pressure. He also made some massive tackles. Rauld deserved the Player that Rocks award. Our captain, Dillion Smith, seems to play better each week. I was also impressed with Tharquin Manuel's play as the outside center. His defense was outstanding, and he is a master at creating gaps in the opposition's defense. He has got the X-factor."