UJ looking for revenge in Varsity Netball semi-final against UFS

UJ are looking to turn the tables against UFS Kovsies when the two sides meet in the semi-final of Varsity Netball 2026 on Monday, 21 September at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein (19:00).

Although the team from Johannesburg beat their Free State counterparts 50-40 in round 5 of the competition, they want to avenge their 2024 final defeat to the five-time champions.

Coach Bongi Msomi says the Orange Army have high expectations going into their semi-final match.

“We know that Kovsies will play hard, which is something they always do. We played them several times in the tournament and we know what to expect. We are excited and ready for this challenge. We have prepared well for it and we know the venue, their home crowd and also them playing at home will give them the advantage.”

According to Msomi they expect a fired-up Kovsies team as both teams would want to secure a spot in the final.

“It is definitely going to be an entertaining playoff. We are not shying away from the challenge that is coming and we have also prepared to deal with what’s thrown at us on court.”

UJ vice-captain Alexandra Meimaris says despite their loss against UP-Tuks during the competition, finishing at the top of the log shows the team’s consistency and growth.

“One of the biggest takes was progressing through the tournament game by game and continuing to build as a team. Each weekend has given us something to learn from and improve our game from when we started the tournament.

“Going into the semi-finals, the team is excited and has shown a lot of energy and confidence. At the same time, we know that what we have done in the round-robin games doesn’t guarantee us anything now going forward, as this is a completely new challenge.

“Preparations have been going very well. We’re working hard for each other in making sure that we’re as well prepared as possible. We look forward to the semi-final and are hoping to put out a performance that we can all be proud of, as well as ending the season on a high note!”

Fixtures HERE.

Tickets HERE.