UJ gunning for revenge in Varsity Netball semi-final against NWU

UJ are aiming for a third consecutive spot in the final when they take on NWU on Monday 22 September (17:00) in the first semi-final of Varsity Netball 2025 at the NWU Mafikeng Great Hall in Mahikeng.

After an unbeaten run through the tournament, the Orange Army will hope to avenge their loss (42-50) against the Eagles in round 7. UJ stormed through the first six matches of the season, maintaining a perfect record against defending champions UFS Kovsies, Maties, Varsity College, Wits, Madibaz and UP-Tuks.

Captain Cornelia Mupenda said the impressive winning streak was a huge confidence booster.

"Being at the top of the log with six out of six wins was really special for us. It showed that all the hard work we put in was paying off and kept us motivated to push even harder."

Mupenda described the loss to NWU as a valuable lesson.

"It reminded us that we can’t afford to switch off at any point and that we need to stay sharp right until the end. It was a wake-up call to reset and refocus.”

UJ’s recent success is undeniable. They reached the final for two consecutive years, a first in the team's history. In both 2023 and 2024, they were runners-up after falling in close matches against UP-Tuks and Kovsies that went into extra time.

Mupenda, a senior player who was part of both finals, said she is determined to go all the way this year.

"Reaching back-to-back finals was a huge achievement, but it’s also shown us how much more we need to do to take that final step. Going into this semi-final, our focus is on executing our game plan with intensity and composure. We want to give ourselves the best chance to reach the final again and, this time, to make sure we finish the job and lift the trophy."

The team is currently facing a challenge with two of its senior players, Tarle Mathe and Owethu Ngubane, away on national duty with the SPAR Proteas against New Zealand and Australia.

"Having Tarle and Sammy away with the national team definitely has had an impact," Mupenda admitted, "because they’re important players for us on and off the court. We are really proud of them for representing us at a national level."

Full fixtures HERE. 

by Collen Maepa