The action has been coming thick and fast in the 2023 Varsity Netball tournament, with players exposed to high-intensity matches. The last of the three bumper weekends take place in Stellenbosch on Sunday and Monday before things move to the semi-finals. Havillan Abrahams, the physical conditioner of defending champions Maties, talked to Varsity Netball to shed some light on what a conditioner does. He has worked with rugby (15s and 7s) as well as athletics and believes each sport has its different challenges and demands. He says netball is a challenging sport "On a performance level, the physical demands are subjective and position-specific. Having exposure to competition before Varsity Netball is very important as I believe it to be the most challenging competition at this level in South Africa. "The running and court conditioning demand is unique … not only to prepare the athlete but most importantly to reduce the risk of injury. "Having scientific data from previous competition and a monitoring system in place always assists the process to be able to prepare well." Abrahams says in any sport there is a challenge in regards to travelling more often and in Varsity Netball it is no different. "Three consecutive matches at any level is a challenge, with many challenges travelling with Varsity Netball, the hardest, in my opinion, is recovery. “My number one goal is the prevention of injury with the preparations before the competition. This includes game readiness, activation, nutrition and fluid intake, working alongside physiotherapy, load monitoring as well and athlete readiness feedback." He says playing at home this week may result in lower physical demand on the ladies but not affect the requirements in terms of expectations. "There is always pressure to perform at this level at all our major competitions, with that said, I trust and believe in the program and the environment we as Maties management have created to continue being successful.” Fixtures HERE. Tickets HERE. by Ayanda Frances Felem

Former Santos and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Tyren Arendse has applauded the work Men’s Varsity Football has done in building young players. The 42-year-old says there are a lot of talented players in Varsity Football who could end up in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). (Image via FC Kaapstadt) The Elsie's River-born former player is currently working with the Cape Town Spurs Youth Development and believes the work to ensure the players make it far lies in the standard of coaching they are getting. "I think Varsity Football has been doing well, there are many players who graduated from Varsity Football to the PSL. I think it comes down to the coaching they get at university. For you to improve as a footballer you need to be in a proper structure. "Like in the academies now, they have the most qualified coaches in the system, at least the information they are giving the youngsters comes from the understanding of the game.” Arendse, who is passionate about football development, says what Varsity Football is doing gives younger players hope. He says the fact that it is televised, means players get seen and can attract better opportunities for themselves. "If you have good quality and qualified coaches in Varsity Football, I'm sure that can improve the standard of the game. And that will make it easy for the Varsity Football players to make a transition to the top in the PSL. "To have Varsity Football is a good thing for South African football, it's on TV and it gives players the exposure they need. Players get to be seen and picked by scouts and they go all the way to the top through the Varsity Football system." by Ayanda Frances Felem

With the second bumper weekend of the 2023 Varsity Netball tournament now behind us, there’s a clear divide between the top and the bottom of the log. UP-Tuks and NWU leading the pack as the only two unbeaten teams with UJ in third on 14 points and defending champions Maties in fourth on 12 points. It's no surprise that Tuks' success so far and goal difference is due to their attacking power and the form of Alice Kennon who once again leads the goal shooting stats with a superb 93%. Here’s a look at the goal percentages of the goal shooters of the eight teams: UP-Tuks Alice Kennon 93%, Marichelle Visagie 77%, Kamogelo Maseko 73%, Amber Marshall 91%. NWU Sunel Smit 66%, Caitlin Du Plessis 77%, Jade Egwatu 60%. UJ Muhluri Hlatshwayo 90%, Owethu Ngubane 75%, Henlize Basson 67%, Zene de Waal 76%. UFS-Kovsies Sheneca Smith 73%, Xandri Fourie 75%, Bianca Pienaar 80%, Demi-Leigh de Jager 54%. Maties Lisa Ingwersen 68%, Chrisley Marshall 80%, Rochelle Maree 61%, Zane Bodensteyn 72%. UWC Liandre Schoeman 91%, Adri Kannemeyer 60%, Shevonne Hoffman 80%, Renisha Daniels 50%. Wits Giada Prinsloo 88%, Amy Horn 52%, Nicola Wilson 50%. Madibaz Kaylin Coetzer 63%, Andrea van der Merwe 67%, Mothira Mohammed 74%, Juanita van Tonder 47%. The last bumper weekend takes place in Stellenbosch at the Maties Coetzenburg Indoor Centre on Sunday 3 September and Monday 4 September Fixtures HERE. Ticket HERE.

For UJ striker Gerald Ndlovu, it all started a year after he was born in 1998. A family member started calling him Bebeto after a Brazilian national player who was setting the world on fire. The name stuck and Ndlovu says from then onwards he was just channeling his inner soccer player. Varsity Football sat down with Ndlovu to talk all things football and what the 2023 Men’s Varsity Football tournament means to him. Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in Matsulu in Mpumalanga and grew up in Johannesburg. What are you studying? National Diploma in Sports Management. How long have you been playing soccer? I've been playing football for 20 years now. Have you always played your current position, if not, which other? No, I have not, I started playing as a centre-back and central midfield. Take us through your journey of becoming a soccer player. Well, it started with my first birthday gift, it wasn't a toy car but a size 3 replica of the ’98 World Cup ball and a Brazilian onesie. Fast forward to when I turned 7 and when I joined Lonehill Celtics, I then moved to Midas Football Academy when I was 14 before joining the Stars of Africa at age 17. Tell us about the recent international contract that you got. Coach Karabo Mogudi introduced us to someone who has international opportunities, and we then liaised with him until I signed for Progres Warszawa in Poland. They are playing in the 5th League and it’s a one-year contract. How are you finding the league in comparison to the local one? The level is very high, the players are very physical and they are tactically and technically on a high level but they are not as silky. Which teams did you play for before this opportunity you just got? I was on the books of Jomo Cosmos for three-and-a-half years and went back to UJ for a few months before making my way here. How was your working relationship with your former coach Karabo Mogudi? “Solve for X" that's what I called him. It was great, I Improved so much in a short period. I would be grateful to work with him again. I've worked with a lot of high-profile coaches but for me, he's top of that list and he's just more than a coach. How did the UJ Football Club play a role in becoming who you are now? UJ elevated my game, everything is professional, not only in how one prep for football but for life and life after football. From the life conversation with the grounds-men to laughs with the bus drivers, motivation from the physios to torture from the gym instructors. All of these moments have contributed to my growth not only as an elite athlete but also becoming a better human being. Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE. by Gontse Mabale

CUT will be desperate to break their duck in the 2023 Men’s Varsity Football competition when they welcome VUT to Bloemfontein on Thursday. CUT have played some good football on their debut in the tournament, however, a win and valuable three points have eluded them as they head into the penultimate round before the playoffs. Winger Oratile Mothibedi has been a handful for the opponents to deal with this season, and he has been one of CUT’s standout performers. He has previously played for Bloemfontein Celtic in the Multichoice Diski Championship. Mothibedi, who is a big fan of the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Sipho Mbule, feels that the one thing lacking in the team at the moment is experience, but the hunger and determination are certainly there. “We have played well as a team and I believe we could have done more in our previous games but unfortunately experience was lacking in our crucial moments. I believe the boys showed hunger and determination which was not enough. Varsity Football is a great platform for us to showcase our God-given talent and I truly hope one or two of us can get some serious exposure.” Mothibedi adds that a win this week against VUT won’t come easy and it’s something that they will have to dig deep for. Three points will give them a lot of confidence before next week’s big Bloemfontein derby against UFS. “Going into this week's game, we understand how important it is for us to win so that we can also have the feeling of having three points. This will set the tone as we close it off next week against UFS. The most important game right now is our game against VUT which will be much tougher as they also need the points.” CUT and VUT will face each other on Thursday at CUT Park. The game starts at 17:00. Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE.

NWU defender Khopotso Moshapo has emerged as the saviour of his team on a couple of occasions so far in the 2023 Men’s Varsity Football tournament. With remarkable headers, he not only secured victory over CUT but also salvaged a crucial draw against UFS. NWU's hard-fought 2-1 victory over CUT at the NWU Mafikeng Stadium had fans on the edge of their seats. It was Moshapo's header in the 95th minute that sealed the deal, sending waves of celebration through the stadium. Just a week later, Moshapo displayed his goal-scoring prowess when he netted a dramatic equaliser against UFS. This time, the goal came in the 92nd minute, again in the form of a header. These two crucial goals have not only made him a fan favourite but also a vital asset for NWU. When asked about his experience in his first Varsity Football matches, Moshapo shared, "It was a thrilling experience because you are exposed to factors that may affect your performance on the ground, like a fully packed away stadium and the pressure that comes with it." Moshapo's goal-scoring technique seems to come naturally. He explains that it is not something he plans, he is just in the right place at the right time. Before matches, he prefers to listen to music and chat with his teammates. He also follows specific patterns, believing that if a certain pattern leads to a victory, he repeats it in the following game. Moshapo, nicknamed 'Gattuso,' was born and raised in Pretoria. He joined the NWU Soccer Institute in 2022 after earning a promotion from the university's junior team. Playing in a position often occupied by natural leaders and strong communicators, Moshapo fits the bill perfectly. His football journey began at the age of 5, and since then, he has progressed steadily through various teams. He recounts his journey, saying, "I joined my first amateur team in 2011, which is Akasia FC based in Pretoria. I then went on to play for Mamelodi Sundowns Academy from 2014 to 2018. After that, I played for PSB FC for almost a year before joining Garankuwa United in 2019. Finally, I decided to try out for the NWU team in Mafikeng in 2020." Moshapo's debut in the 2022 Men’s Varsity Football tournament allowed him to gain valuable experience alongside more seasoned players. He credits these senior players for helping shape him into the player he is today and preparing him for moments when the team relies on his heroics. As Moshapo continues to make headlines with his remarkable late-game contributions, his towering presence during set pieces has become a feared threat for opponents. His ability to keep NWU in the game when a crucial goal is needed has quickly made him a standout figure in Varsity Football. Teams now know that they can never rule out the danger of a skilled centre-back like Khopotso Moshapo. Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE. by Phenyo Mokgothu

UP-Tuks swept past defending champions Maties to go top of the log after day three of the second bumper weekend of the 2023 Varsity Netball championship at the UJ Imbizo Hall Soweto Campus. In the other matches, UJ won the Johannesburg derby against Wits while NWU beat UFS-Kovsies and Madibaz got one over UWC. UP-TUKS 60-38 MATIES UP-Tuks continued their good run of form with a comprehensive 60-38 victory over Maties. It was a battle of the Titans pitting one of the favourites of this year’s competition against the defending champions. The contest certainly did not disappoint. The game saw Tuks surprising Maties in the first quarter, dominating most of the aspects of play, which resulted in a 17-8 lead at the close of the first quarter of play. The second quarter saw Maties looking to find their way back into it, but the brilliance of Alice Kennon made it a difficult task. Kennon was able to record 21 goals in the first half of play, putting her team 30-18 up at the break. The championship quarter saw the Maroon Machine being outscored once again by Tuks, who looked relentless on attack. The Pretoria-based team also showed great urgency to try and intercept the Maties’ passes. The quarter ended with Tuks just shy of half a century, with the score at 49-29. The final quarter was just about maintaining the lead for Tuks, while Maties were chasing. In the end, Tuks were able to register the 60-goal margin, going on to upset the defending champions 60-38. Quarter scores: 17-8 / 30-18 / 49-29 / 60-38 Player of the match: Phophi Nematangari (UP-Tuks) UP-Tuks: Alice Kennon, Amber Marshall, Caroline Paul, Kamogelo Maseko, Kylie van Wyk, Luca Keun, Marichelle Visagie, Melissa van Zyl, Milla Coetzee, Nompha Raphalalani, Phophi Nematangari, Zionne Grobler. Maties: Lisa Ingwersen, Rochelle Maree, Chrisley Marshall, Renezia Andrews, Nerine Koopman, Kerrin de Nobrega, Danielle van Nieuwenhuizen, Entle Futshane, Miriam Ndjadi, Lize Rossouw, Syntiche Kabuya, Zané Bodenstein. UJ 61-34 WITS UJ oozed class as they managed to clinch the Johannesburg derby bragging rights, as they picked up a big 61-34 victory against Wits. The game began with UJ dominating proceedings from the onset, with goal shooter Muhluri Hlatshwayo enjoying a good few touches in the shooting circle. Wits looked in a great deal of panic, not managing to get possession of the ball, as the UJ team stormed off to a massive 25-5 lead at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter saw the Orange Army managing to add a further 13 goals to their score, bringing the halftime break to 31-15. The championship quarter saw the likes of Hlatshwayo continue to be a menace to the Wits defence, with the Witsies failing to pick up on the rebounds, which they were punished for. The third quarter concluded with UJ well in front, with a 52-25 scoreline, practically wrapping up the game early. There was calm on the Wits bench at the start of the fourth quarter, as coach Elsje Jordaan could see what she was up against. UJ in the end painted the city orange, with a 61-34 victory. Quarter scores: 24-5 / 37-15 / 52-25 / 61-34 Player of the match: Boitumelo Mahloko (UJ) UJ: Cornelia Mupenda, Boitumelo Mahloko, Yanke Broodryk, Mukhatshelwa Tshisikhaw, Adivhaho Tshivhiahuvhi, Zanell Blignaut, Sanelisiwe Ntobela, Londeka Buthelezi, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, Owethu Ngubane, Zene de Waal, Henlize Basson. WITS: Giada Prinsloo, Amy Horn, Sidney Coetzee, Kgotso Precious Montshiwa, Simoné van Reenen, Panashe Chiranga, Alix Horn, Refilwe Tswai, Kirsten Mileman, Nicola Wilson, Thandiwe Mokiti, Lerato Thobeha. NWU 43-36 UFS-KOVSIES NWU held their nerve to defeat UFS-Kovsies 43-36 in a pulsating clash. The Eagles started like a house on fire while Kovsies looked like a shadow of the former champions they are. The first quarter ended with NWU holding a comfortable 20-6 lead. The second quarter saw the momentum swing slightly in the favour of Kovsies as they took the game to NWU. When the halftime whistle sounded, NWU were however still in the lead (27-14). The third quarter saw an incredible fightback from UFS, outscoring their opponents 8-5. Demi-Leigh de Jager showed a different side of her game, delivering a performance that seemed to also uplift her teammates. The quarter was brought to a close with the deficit trimmed down to just 10 goals (33-22). NWU were able to keep their lead, with Kovsies bringing it down to a seven-goal game in the dying minutes. A bad first quarter however counted against them, as NWU ran out victorious. Credit must be given to Kovsies for fighting hard in the last three quarters, winning all of them. Quarter scores: 20-6 / 27-14 / 33-22 / 43-36 Player of the match: Demi-Leigh de Jager (UFS-Kovsies) NWU: Sunel Smit, Caitlin du Plessis, Jade Egwatu, Jomari Lübbe, Michelle Geduld, Tlotlang Mokomela, Keke Molotsi, Favour Umeh, Chelize Swart, Sanmarie Visser, Vivian Venancio, Martiné Jordaan. UFS-Kovsies: Ane Retief, Bianca Pienaar, Xandri Fourie, Buhle Kubheka, Charne van Vuuren, Demi-Leigh de Jager, Elri Groenewald, Liame de Lange, Reratilwe Letsoalo, Lethabo Sehlapelo, Sheneca Smith, Ruandi van Dyk. MADIBAZ 50-47 UWC Madibaz picked up their first victory of their 2023 campaign when they beat UWC 50-47. The first quarter saw a different-looking Madibaz performance, showing an intensity that had been missing in the first couple of games. Madibaz skipper Mothira Mohammad had an inspiring performance on attack and defence. The first quarter ended with Madibaz leading 8-6. The second quarter saw UWC coming out the blocks the stronger team but unfortunately let the Madibaz regain their rhythm, with Mothira and Kaylin Coetzer combining well once again. Madibaz went into the break with the score at 20-18. The third quarter saw a much higher-scoring affair for the two sides, with the power play certainly playing its part. UWC however did not let their guard down in the encounter, outscoring the Madibaz 15-14. With the score at 35-33 to Madibaz at the end of the championship quarter, UWC were the ones needing a significant chase in the fourth. The final score line saw it tipping towards the Madibaz, with the score reading 50-47. UWC walked away with a bonus point after losing with less than seven goals. Quarter scores: 8-6 / 20-18 / 35-33 / 50-47 Player of the match: Mothira Mohammad (Madibaz) Madibaz: Kaylin Coetzer, Mothira Mohammad, Andrea van der Merwe, Juanita van Tonder, Sibulele Kentane, Siyamthanda Dingiswayo, Nosipho Dweba, Britney van der Merwe, Kelly du Toit, Mitha Sinxo, Jeannique Rossouw, Bonique Solaan. UWC: Nashitah Africa, Courtleigh Behr, Roné Carstens, Amber Coraizin, Renisha Daniels, Shevonne Hoffman, Adri Kannemeyer, Leandré Ketch, Shani Pick, Liandré Schoeman, Wiandi Van der Merwe, Kristin van der Ross. Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE. by S’fiso Nyawo

Defending champions TUT bounced back from the disappointing loss to UWC to beat VUT in the fifth round of Varsity Football 2023. The red army currently sit second on the log with two more round robin games to go before the playoffs. TUT’s consistency was questioned during their 2-0 defeat in the hands of UWC, but revived their confidence with a solid performance against VUT. Midfielder Tshiamo Mahome is confident that they can still maintain their spot in the log standings and that his first goal against NWU was a huge morale for him going into this season. “I think I have been doing well this season and contributing towards the goals of the team, I finally got my first goal against North West which is a good confidence booster for myself. So far it has been a good team effort.” The Ga-Rankuwa-born is one of TUT’s key players this season as one of the experienced bunch in Bushy’s squad having joined the institution in 2021. “I had initially taken a break in football until 2019, I was scouted by the TUT technical team in 2021 when I was playing for Eersterust Rams FC in the SAFA Tshwane Regional League. I made my debut against UJ last year, it was a good one for me as we won 2-0 away and I managed to score. The experience was amazing as it was also the first time I played in a TV broadcast match, in a huge crowd, it motivated me to do better.” Mentioned Mahome Mahome hailed his side for the maturity of the team and the relentless effort portrayed by his teammates. “At the moment, I think the unity in the team is better than last year, we are more experienced and most of the players in the squad have taken part in the competition. Ultimately we are just working harder. The mandate is clear on our side, we want to play nine games we want to defend our title and I believe what will help us is to not get carried away and take it one game at a time. We’ve had a good start but we haven’t qualified for the knock-outs, we are doing good, but not good enough” says Mahome The red army head to UFH in round 6 and will be looking to claim valuable points remain at the summit of the log and secure a semi-final spot. “We have improved as a team and got better in what want to achieve, they want to win and stay in contention and qualify for the semis.” Concluded Tshiamo Mahome By Lehlogonolo Ditshego

CAPE TOWN - Former UWC Football goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner believes UWC can produce top players who can be a force to reckon with in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Leaner, now a DStv Premiership player, was one of Sekhukhune United's latest additions this season after signing a three-year deal from Maritzburg United. The 25-year-old is a product of Varsity Football having played for UWC and Ajax Cape Town Youth Academy. "I’ve been watching UWC games and the player who impresses me the most is Riyaaz Koopstadt because he is very effective going forward with the ball," said Leaner. "Most of the players can make it as a professional if they put in the work that’s required and by being disciplined on and off the field." "UWC is capable of producing PSL players. Look at me, I'm an example of someone who played Varsity Football before and made it as professional and more players are professional level and have contracts who also played at UWC." Leaner is a great example of a Varsity Football product who made it to the professional level. He played for Cape Town Spurs in the Motsepe Foundation Championship before joining Maritzburg United. The Cape-born has thrown his advice to the UWC players. "Players have to keep working hard and trust the process and most importantly use the Varsity Cup as a platform to showcase their talent," he said. "UWC has very good facilities for any athlete and all the resources to produce top athletes. The one thing I can say is that they have to invest in a more competitive league in Cape Town so players can play more at a higher level. He continued saying as a goalkeeper he has been also watching how UWC number goalkeeper Leathan Croats plays and believes he has potential. "Leathan needs to stay grounded and just keep working hard and to use the Varsity Cup as a platform to showcase his talent," he adds. "I worked with him before he had the quality to make it as a professional. "Scouts should look more into Varsity Football because there is a lot of young talent that could make it into the PSL if given the opportunity.

As we cross the half way mark of Varsity Netball 2023, this year’s contenders have started to raise their hands. Tuks continued to show their attacking dominance with a big win over Madibaz while Maties return to winning ways after a clinical performance against UWC. The Eagles made it four from four while the upset of the day belonged to the UJ Orange Army who beat former champs Kovsies. Madibaz 27–67 Tuks The first quarter saw UP-Tuks making their intentions clear, as they dominated possession and the all round game to race to a 20-6 lead. The Madibaz struggled with intensity that UP-Tuks were playing at and the second quarter saw much of the same as UP-Tuks went into the break with a comfortable 38-12 lead. Tuks continued to pile on the scoreboard pressure in the third quarter, while the Madibaz could only add a further 5 goals. Phophi Nematangari was instrumental for UP-Tuks, combining well with her teammates and the championship quarter ended with UP-Tuks holding an unassailable 54-17 lead. The final quarter saw a much better display from the Madibaz, where they managed to add a further 10 goals to their tally, but it was too little too late as UP-Tuks continued their relentless free-scoring dominance to win their forth game in a row. Quarter scores: 6-20 / 12-38 / 17-54 / 27-67 FNB Player of the match - Phophi Nematangari (Tuks) Madibaz: Kaylin Coetzer, Mothira Mohammad, Andrea van der Merwe, Juanita van Tonder, Sibulele Kentane, Siyamthanda Dingiswayo, Nosipho Dweba, Britney van der Merwe, Kelly du Toit, Mitha Sinxo, Jeannique Rossouw, Bonique Solaan Tuks: Alice Kennon, Amber Marshall, Caroline Paul, Kamogelo Maseko, Kylie van Wyk, Luca Keun, Marichelle Visagie, Melissa van Zyl, Milla Coetzee, Nompha Raphalalani, Phophi Nematangari, Zionne Grobler Maties 67 – 37 UWC The Western Cape derby saw the first quarter being tightly contested in an expected cagey start. Maties dominated the possession, dictating the intensity of the game early on. The quarter closed with UWC trailing 17-11. The second quarter saw Maties shift into a different gear, increasing the intensity of the affair as they were bolstered by the control in the middle of the court. This saw them gain a 20 goal advantage over their opponents. The championship quarter saw UWC lift their game, but the maroon machine continued to pile on the goals, swiftly getting to the 50 goal mark while UWC managed to add 9 goals to their tally at the end of the third quarter. The final quarter saw the defending champions continue to steal the show with Chrisley Marshall stepping up in the game to seal the win and claim the Cape bragging rights. Quarter scores: 17-11 / 37-17/ 52-26 / 67-37 FNB Player of the match – Chrisley Marshall Maties: Lisa Ingwersen, Rochelle Maree, Chrisley Marshall, Renezia Andrews, Nerine Koopman, Kerrin de Nobrega, Danielle van Nieuwenhuizen, Entle Futshane, Miriam Ndjadi, Lize Rossouw, Syntiche Kabuya, Zané Bodenstein UWC: Nashitah Africa, Courtleigh Behr, Roné Carstens, Amber Coraizin, Renisha Daniels, Shevonne Hoffman, Adri Kannemeyer, Leandré Ketch, Shani Pick, Liandré Schoeman, Wiandi Van der Merwe, Kristin van der Ross NWU 59–26 Wits NWU went into the game as outright favourites against a Wits side in their debut Varsity Netball season. The Eagles got off to a good start, finding themselves in the lead at the end of the first quarter. Wits were however just 4 goals adrift with the score at 11-7. The second quarter saw NWU get into their rhythm, as they powered off to increase their lead to go into the break enjoying a comfortable lead. The third quarter played out in a similar fashion to the first quarter and was a closely fought affair, but it was in the fourth quarter that NWU flexed their attacking prowess as both power plays added to the action. Wits struggled to match the energy brought by NWU at the end, with the game concluding with a 59-26 win to the ladies from the North West. Quarter scores: 11-7 / 28-13 / 39-20 / 59-26 FNB Player of the match – Martiné Jordaan NWU: Sunel Smit, Caitlin du Plessis, Jade Egwatu, Jomari Lübbe, Michelle Geduld, Tlotlang Mokomela, Keke Molotsi, Favour Umeh, Chelize Swart, Sanmarie Visser, Vivian Venancio, Martiné Jordaan WITS: Giada Prinsloo, Amy Horn, Sidney Coetzee, Kgotso Precious Montshiwa, Simoné van Reenen, Panashe Chiranga, Alix Horn, Refilwe Tswai, Kirsten Mileman, Nicola Wilson, Thandiwe Mokiti, Lerato Thobeha UFS 37-40 UJ The first quarter saw an edgy start to proceedings as both teams slowly gathered momentum. UJ looked good using their tall goal shooter Muhluri Hlatshwayo well to race to a slim 10-9 lead. The Orange army applied the court press well, forcing mistakes from the UFS-Kovsies team and extended their lead at the break to six goals. The championship quarter saw the game continue in the same vain, with UFS-Kovsies trimming UJ’s lead by 1 goal. With the score at 29-24 in favour of UJ, UFS-Kovsies had it all to do in the final quarter and looked intent on picking up a sensational comeback victory. The four times former champions ran UJ close on the scoreboard in the dying minutes of the game, but it was the home side who held on for a stunning victory. Quarter scores: 9-10/ 16-22 /24-29 / 37-40 FNB Player of the match – Ane Retief (UFS) UFS: Ane Retief, Bianca Pienaar, Xandri Fourie, Buhle Kubheka, Charne van Vuuren, Demi-Leigh de Jager, Elri Groenewald, Liame de Lange, Reratilwe Letsoalo, Lethabo Sehlapelo, Sheneca Smith, Ruandi van Dyk UJ: Cornelia Mupenda, Boitumelo Mahloko, Yanke Broodryk, Mukhatshelwa Tshisikhaw, Adivhaho Tshivhiahuvhi, Zanell Blignaut, Sanelisiwe Ntobela, Londeka Buthelezi, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, Owethu Ngubane, Zene de Waal, Henlize Basson Round 5 fixtures on 28 August HERE.

Round 3 of the Varsity Netball 2023 tournament saw several exciting match-ups take place at the Imbizo Hall at the UJ Soweto Campus. The NWU Eagles got their revenge from last year’s final by beating defending champs Maties, UJ picked up their first win with a superb second half performance, UWC win by just a single goal and UP-Tuks clutch in the dying seconds. Madibaz 35 – 60 UJ The opening quarter was a low scoring one with the Madibaz taking a narrow 9-8 lead at the conclusion of the first period of play. Nerves settled in the second with the Orange Army of UJ finding their rhythm, moving the ball well around the court. The Madibaz were also not far off the chase, keeping within close range. At the break, it was UJ who turned the tide to enjoy the better of the scoreboard with a 20-15 lead in front of their vibrant supporters in the stands. In the championship quarter UJ looked lethal on attack punishing the Madibaz on the offence. The quarter was the highest scoring one that saw a staggering 39 combined points piled on the scoreboard. The third quarter also saw UJ enjoying the better of the power plays, out scoring the Madibaz 10-6. Yanke Broodryk of UJ was also in great form, with Mothira Mohammad of the Madibaz also showing great leadership to command her troops on the court. The fourth quarter provided all the necessary entertainment, with the Orange Army running rampant to eventually clinch a 60-35 win. Quarter scores: 9-8 / 15-20 / 31-43 / 35-60 FNB Player of the match - Yanke Broodryk (UJ) Madibaz: Kaylin Coetzer, Mothira Mohammad, Andrea van der Merwe, Juanita van Tonder, Sibulele Kentane, Siyamthanda Dingiswayo, Nosipho Dweba, Britney van der Merwe, Kelly du Toit, Mitha Sinxo, Jeannique Rossouw, Bonique Solaan UJ: Cornelia Mupenda, Boitumelo Mahloko, Yanke Broodryk, Mukhatshelwa Tshisikhaw, Adivhaho Tshivhiahuvhi, Zanell Blignaut, Sanelisiwe Ntobela, Londeka Buthelezi, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, Owethu Ngubane, Zene de Waal, Henlize Basson UWC 38–37 WITS Wits began the game with confidence after their maiden win last week with captain Panashe Chiranga leading from the front and the defence was up to the task bringing the score to 11-9 to Wits at the end of the opening quarter. The Witsies stayed composed to go into the break with a slim 19-17 lead despite momentum shifting toward UWC. The third quarter saw a shift in UWC’s performance as they looked more energetic with the ball in hand, running the Witsies off their feet and the Cape side managed to take the lead. The final quarter was certainly the turning point in the game as UWC maintained their lead throughout the match up, also taking good advantage of the two power plays. Wits did get an opportunity to level matters with 5 seconds left on the clock, but they unknowingly made a pass instead of going for goal, seeing the game ending with UWC claiming a hard fought 38-37 victory. Quarter scores: 9-11 / 17-19 / 27-24 / 38-37 FNB Player of the Match - Liandre Schoeman (UWC) UWC: Nashitah Africa, Courtleigh Behr, Roné Carstens, Amber Coraizin, Renisha Daniels, Shevonne Hoffman, Adri Kannemeyer, Leandré Ketch, Shani Pick, Liandré Schoeman, Wiandi Van der Merwe, Kristin van der Ross Wits: Giada Prinsloo, Amy Horn, Sidney Coetzee, Kgotso Precious Montshiwa, Simoné van Reenen, Panashe Chiranga, Alix Horn, Refilwe Tswai, Kirsten Mileman, Nicola Wilson, Thandiwe Mokiti, Lerato Thobeha UFS 50 - 54 Tuks The first quarter saw both teams testing each other out in the opening exchanges, with UP-Tuks looking strong at the start while Kovsies proved to be up for the challenge showing great patience to keep up the scoreboard pressure. The quarter eventually ended and the score was deadlocked at 12-12, a true reflection of how the match was going. The second quarter saw UP-Tuks grow in confidence to lead 27-22 at the break. The championship quarter saw UP-Tuks continue to dominate proceedings and extend their lead to an 8 goal cushion. The final quarter saw UFS-Kovsies rising to the occasion to close the gap to just one goal in the dying minutes setting up a thrilling finish where the stripe generation clinched a well worked 54-50 win. Quarter scores: 12-12 / 22-27 / 37-45 / 50-54 UP-Tuks FNB Player of the match - Marichelle Visagie (UP-Tuks) UFS: Ane Retief, Bianca Pienaar, Xandri Fourie, Buhle Kubheka, Charne van Vuuren, Demi-Leigh de Jager, Elri Groenewald, Liame de Lange, Reratilwe Letsoalo, Lethabo Sehlapelo, Sheneca Smith, Ruandi van Dyk Tuks: Alice Kennon, Amber Marshall, Caroline Paul, Kamogelo Maseko, Kylie van Wyk, Luca Keun, Marichelle Visagie, Melissa van Zyl, Milla Coetzee, Nompha Raphalalani, Phophi Nematangari, Zionne Grobler Maties 40 -50 NWU The much anticipated match up between the two sides provided all one could look for in a classic game of Netball. The game saw a cagey start to it, with Maties enjoying a slim early lead in the first quarter, before NWU fought back to level matters at 9-9 to close off the first period of play. The second quarter brought about a similar feel to the first quarter, where both teams made it difficult to score goals freely. NWU managed to keep Maties on their toes, knowing very well the danger they possess when they attack. The third quarter saw the Eagles grow in confidence, as they managed to convert opportunities into goals. Maties looked a little shell shocked at times, failing to react positively to the waves of NWU attacking moves. The final quarter saw NWU oozing class in the way they continued to dominate proceedings and feeding well off the mistakes caused by Maties to get their revenge from last year's final and claim an epic victory. Quarter scores: 9-9 / 18-18 / 25 -32 / 40-50 FNB Player of The Match: Caitlin du Plessis Maties: Lisa Ingwersen, Rochelle Maree, Chrisley Marshall, Renezia Andrews, Nerine Koopman, Kerrin de Nobrega, Danielle van Nieuwenhuizen, Entle Futshane, Miriam Ndjadi, Lize Rossouw, Syntiche Kabuya, Zané Bodenstein NWU: Sunel Smit, Caitlin du Plessis, Jade Egwatu, Jomari Lübbe, Michelle Geduld, Tlotlang Mokomela, Keke Molotsi, Favour Umeh, Chelize Swart, Sanmarie Visser, Vivian Venancio, Martiné Jordaan Round 4 fixtures HERE.

A big win for UWC, UJ remain top of the log, defending champs TUT finding their form and UFS salvage a draw with a man short. The contenders for semi-final spots are starting to emerge as we approach the varsity football playoffs. Here are the standout players of round 5. Karabo Mosisane (UJ) Normally the UJ full back, but was playing as a right center back in the game against CUT. Mosisane and Maselesele Makoti marshalled the last defense row very well with Karabo making 3 saving tackles for UJ, winning 4 aerial balls and creating 2 chances. He also bagged another clean sheet for the Orange Army and was the main reason why CUT strikers Lehlohonolo Nkaekae and Pule Thekiso didn't have a good game. His efforts in the victory were rewarded with the FNB Player of the Match award. Shuaib Martin (UWC) The UWC midfielder had a 100% pass rate in the middle of the park, bagged himself a goal and walked away with the FNB Player of the Match award. “I am happy to be on the score sheet and win the man of the match award, we needed all these points. This week was a good week for us, we trained hard and today we stuck to our game plan. Personally, I worked hard, I mastered my game plan, I rate myself 8/10, there are still areas to improve on.” Ronald Mabaso (TUT) Ronald Mabaso added to his tally after scoring the TUT second goal against VUT. The Red Army talisman was TUT's focal point as they relied on his strength and speed to dominate the game. Mabaso made the most dribbles in the first 45 minutes of the game, created 3 chances, scored 1 goal, and was one of the TUT players who made most forward passes in this fixture. Ronald is currently the tournament’s leading goal scorer with 6 goals to his name. Ethan Goldstone (UFS) The UFS striker was solid in the midfield and once he started hitting his stride, Boy Rantsoti, started feeding off his energy. It was no surprise that the pair linked up well for the first goal, with Goldstone tapping in the rebound following the initial strike by Rantsoti in the 33rd minute. Goldstone can count himself unlucky not to score a brace after being flagged offside after scoring from a rebound when a thumping Lizwi Kunene strike hit the crossbar early in the second half. He collected the FNB Player of the Match award for his efforts.