UJ broke their two-game losing streak to claim their first victory of the 2023 Varsity Cup as they defeated UCT in Johannesburg.
Having led 17-10 at half time, UJ recovered from a UCT fightback to run away to a 43-24 bonus point win.
The home side started the stronger of the two, dominating possession and territory, scoring two quickfire tries through outside centre Nkondlo Radebe and winger Likhaya Tengimfene before flyhalf Johnathan Viljoen added an extra three on the hooter.
UCT were unable to string any significant phases together, but got onto the scoreboard through hooker Alex Castle, who rumbled over off the back of the maul with Ntokozo Makhaza adding an conversion and a penalty.
In a helter skelter of a second half both sides showed their ambition to attack, running from deep while turning down easy three-pointers.
UJ eighthman Buhlebenkosi Qaba scored first going over in the corner opening up a 14-point lead.
Ikeys responded immediately through hooker Keagan Blanckenberg from the maul before flanker Enos Ndiao powered his way over the line, taking three defenders with him, tying the score up at 24-24 with 20 minutes left to play.
UJ were determined not to let this one slip and regained the advantage when lock Francois Pretorius crashed over from a pick and go before scrumhalf Mpho Kubheka showed his wheels, scoring a point of origin try as the hosts wrapped up a convincing win in the end.
Photo: Twitter/@VarsityCup