Vikings relishing Stellenbosch trip

The Danie Craven Stadium in beautiful Stellenbosch, home of the FNB Maties, has one of the most scenic settings in world rugby.

But in this case looks can be deceiving as the same stadium can also be very intimidating if you are not a Matie player or supporter. In fact, once it is draped in maroon, it becomes hostile territory for all visiting teams.

And this is also the prospect awaiting the FNB TUT Vikings on Monday when they take on the defending FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International champions.

It will be the first time the Vikings will travel to Stellenbosch for a FNB Varsity Cup fixture, having played at home against the Maties in 2008 and 2009.

New Vikings captain Emile Verster is a seasoned Currie Cup player, but he has not yet played on one of the most famous rugby grounds in South Africa. So even to him it will be a new experience.

Verster told varsitycup.co.za that he is looking forward to travelling to Stellenbosch.

“You lose valuable support when you don’t play at home, but in this case we are all very excited about our first Varsity Cup match in Stellenbosch,” he said.

“We know we’ll have little support and face an uphill battle, but I’m sure that the outing will nevertheless be very good for our team spirit.”

The Vikings are still looking for their first win against the Maties.

The Stellenbosch outfit has a wonderful record at home and after their most impressive 2010 start against NMMU it will take some doing from the Vikings to pull off the first major surprise of the season.

By Morris Gilbert