BATTLE OF THE OAKES

Cristine Struweg

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In recent weeks, a debate has emerged about who the real ‘Oakes’ are. In 2023, a SuperSport Commentator referred to a bunch of NWU rugby institute players, on camera, as “The Oakes”. They have since embraced this name and during each game have a special corner on the pavilion, reserved for ‘The Oakes’. Until recently, they have had this name to themselves but a group of UFS Shimlas supporters decided that they are ‘The real Oakes’. At last, we have a chance to settle this debate. 

The NWU Eagles will take on the UFS Shimlas at home in the fourth round of the Varsity Cup 2025. The NWU Eagles have some things to prove as their season didn’t start the way they would have hoped. After three rounds of this season, the NWU Eagles have only managed to win one of their games, and in the other two, they had to settle for defeat against the teams from the Western Cape. They hope to take their first home win against the UFS Shimlas and then keep the winning momentum going. 

On the other hand, the UFS Shimlas have gotten off to a better start than the NWU Eagles, winning two of their three matches. Their loss came against Maties, but they looked unstoppable at home, winning both the games they played there. The defending champions will look to recreate their last game against the NWU Eagles, winning 35-24 in the 2024 Varsity Cup season. 

Last year might have been in the UFS Shimlas’ favor, but in recent years the NWU Eagles have proven to have the upper hand, winning six out of the last seven matches played between these two teams. There’s no doubt that both teams will fight for the victory come Monday night, with the NWU Eagles aiming for their first home win and the UFS Shimlas hoping their momentum isn’t halted by another away-game loss. 

Everything is on the line this game, especially the name; ‘The Oakes’. This match will be played on March 10, 2025 at the Fanie du Toit sports grounds. Kick off is at 19:00 and the gates will open at 15:00 for the NWU Young Guns side taking on Maties Young Guns at 16:00. 

Edited by Mignon Walters