Maties ready to show what they are capable of in Varsity Netball semi-final

Forty minutes of nail-biting action stands between Maties and a place in the final of Varsity Netball 2025 when they take on UFS Kovsies on Monday 22 September (19:00) in their semi-final at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein.

With both teams eager to showcase their skills, Maties head coach Sasha-Lee Petersen said her side will need to be ruthless and play with intensity if they hope to overcome the defending champions.

“The mood in the camp is very positive and focused. The players are excited but at the same time, they know there’s still work to be done.”

The Maroon Machine had a six point lead at half-time in the teams’ round 7 encounter, before Kovsies came back to snatch the victory. Petersen has vowed it won’t happen again.

“Building on our previous encounter against them, which went really well, we’ll need to tighten up on staying clinical in our execution.”

Peterson admitted that she was proud of the team’s effort and determination in securing a spot in the semi-final.

“It’s a big milestone for us and a reflection of all the hard work and commitment throughout the season. We stuck to our processes, and we grew each week. We also built strong connections on and off the court which has been a big strength.”

Captain Syntiche Kabuya, player of the match against Kovsies, said the team has prepared well and now all that remains is execution, a task she is confident her side can handle.

“The team is very excited and focused and dedicated to win and show everyone what we’re capable of. ⁠I think we’ve done a million little things well and now is the time to tie it all together.

“We can work more on executing our game plan for longer and not getting involved or absorbed into outside things. Kovsies is a team that never gives up, so we have to keep grinding and going till the final whistle.”

 Full fixtures HERE. 

Watch all the highlights of the season HERE.

by Ayanda Frances Felem