The Madibaz may have not had the dream start they were hoping for at the Wits Bumper Weekend leg of the 2023 Varsity Netball tournament, going down in both the games they played over Sunday and Monday at the Wits Multi-Purpose Sports Hall. The Madibaz veteran Captain Mothira Mohammad however feels they could still turn their fortunes around through hard work and dedication from the team. Mothira who has been at the Madibaz since 2018, is currently studying a Diploma in Business Management, after having already received her Honours degree last year in HR & labour Relations. The KwaZulu Natal born, and Eastern Cape raised Mothira is an attacking player for the Madibaz, playing at Goal Attack (GA)/Wing Attack (WA)/Goal Shooter (GS). Varsity Sports got the chance to get to know a little more about Mothira’s Netball journey at the Madibaz over the past few years. Q&A WITH MADIBAZ CAPTAIN MOTHIRA MOHAMMAD How has your Varsity Netball Journey gone so far? “The past weekend saw us not getting the start that we wanted but we have already been working hard to achieve better results in our Varsity Netball campaign.” What have you learnt through this journey? “I have learnt to accept making mistakes but more importantly finding solutions on how to correct them on the court and then play to the best of my ability.” What have you enjoyed most about this journey? “Meeting and interacting with new people is something I enjoy a lot about Varsity Netball. The friendships and bonds that are formed because of my Netball journey is something I continuously cherish.” How is the state of Netball looking for the future at the Madibaz? “The future for Madibaz Netball is looking promising, as the number of first years that have joined the Madibaz club is certainly increasing compared to previous years. So, there is promise in us having more depth and bringing out quality players.” Any advice you would share with younger players coming through the ranks? “I would advise younger players to never give up and to always try to elevate the standard of work ethic. Hard work beats talent.” By S’fiso Nyawo

With the Varsity Netball Wits Bumper weekend now a thing of the past, Wits’ historic first ever Varsity Netball win will certainly not be forgotten. In their debut Varsity Netball campaign, Wits managed to upset the Madibaz in a tightly contested affair, setting the Witsies up nicely ahead of the UJ Bumper weekend. A unique part of the Wits team this year are Pretoria born twins, Alix and Amy Horn, who are both first year students at Wits University. Alix is currently pursuing a Bcom Accounting degree, while Amy is studying towards a Bcom general degree with psychology. The twins bring versatility to the team as they are on opposite ends of the court, where Alix plays as a Goal Shooter (GS)/Goal Attack (GA), with Amy being a pivot in defence playing as a Goal Keeper (GK)/Goal Defence (GD). Varsity Sports got the pleasure of catching up with Wits University’s exciting twin sisters, Alix and Amy Horn, to chat about life in Netball as twins. When did the Netball journey start for you guys? “My sister and I started playing Netball around the age of 8, but our real netball journey started when we entered Grade 11 and that’s where our dreams started becoming reality...” – Alix Horn What inspired playing Netball? “We grew up around family who loved Netball like my aunt was very involved in action netball, also coaching a South African side for a few years.” – Amy Horn What’s it like playing together in the same team? “Playing together in the same team isn’t something we’ve experienced a lot, even though it most definitely has its struggles. It is however amazing to be able to share the special bond that we have even on the netball court. Being a twin makes it competitive as we have always competed on all fronts, especially Netball and Academics but I think a bit of healthy competition between sibling helps you grow as your own individual player.” – Alix Horn How have you guys taken disappointment, when one of you have been selected for something and the other hasn’t made it? (In Anything) “It has been a big struggle and obstacle in our relationship, but we have learnt that it is a choice to support and cheer each other on. We also try our best to pick each other up and use it as motivation to work harder.” – Amy Horn What does Varsity Netball mean to you guys? “We grew up watching Varsity and Brutal Fruit Netball games at UP-Tuks, so I think being able to play here feels like a dream and gives us more motivation to work even harder to keep going on with this dream.” – Alix Horn What’s the Varsity Netball tournament been like to you guys so far? “It has been a dream come true and an amazing experience especially with the friendships I’ve made in our team. I’m very grateful for the opportunity that Wits has given us to even be able to play in the Varsity Netball tournament.” – Amy Horn By S’fiso Nyawo

As the 2023 Varsity Football tournament reaches the business end of the group stages it's become clear which teams are vying for those semi-final positions and whose prospects of making the playoffs are dwindling. Round 5 saw the UJ Orange Army retain top stop on the log while defending champs TUT, UWC and all picked up wins. TUT 2-1 VUT The TUT red army got their groove back coming to this game 2nd in the log standings and 13 minutes in Thuso Mlamla scored a tap in goal to give TUT an early lead. A goal down didn’t dampen the VUT efforts and the went toe to toe with the defending champions. The second half saw VUT and conceded once more as Ronald Mabaso headed home his 6th goal of the season. VUT continued to apply late pressure and were rewarded when Ntokozo Mgidi scored a wonderful free kick from 21 yards out. Goal scorers: Thuso Mlamla - TUT, Ronald Mabaso - TUT, and Ntokozo Mgidi – VUT FNB Player of The Match: Luyanda Madindi TUT: Luyanda Madindi, Alan Moja, Mekdiwe Bongani Ncenya, Tebogo Lekaba, Ndumiso Kubheka, Thuso Mlamla, Freddy Mahloana, Hendrick Mncedisi Xaba, Tshiamo Mahome, Ronald Mabaso, Tiego Mathebe. VUT: Thabiso Simon Moeketsi, Kgotso Nhlapo, Perceverance Mashabane, Medupi Thokolo, Simamkele Masiza, Sizwe Sibeko, Siyabonga Nombewu, Kgahlisho Kgomoeswana, Thabiso Singo, Lucky Raphala, Ntokozo Mgidi. UWC 4-0 UFH UWC continued where they left off last week as they sealed a 4-0 victory over Fort Hare. Lwando Mdleleni’s charges started off slowly despite two early chances that went amiss. 12 minutes in and striker Leandro De Sousa converted from the penalty spot to give UWC the lead after Damian Overmeyer wass fouled inside the box. UWC continues to pile on the pressure and in on the brink of half time Shuaib Martin’s powerful strike found the back of the net to make it 2-0 for the home side. Fort Hare had their moments and could have closed the gap after receiving a penalty, but Bonke Nxiwa’s shot hit the upright and couldn’t go in. The second half started with a bang as the home side extended their lead after a firecracker from Riyaaz Koopstadt found the back of the net after 60 minutes. UWC wrapping it up as Ronaldo Manuel wrote his name on the score sheet in added time. Scorers: Leandro de Sousa, Shuaib Martin, Riyaaz Koopstadt, Ronaldo Manuel – UWC FNB Player of The Match: Shuaib Martin UWC: Leathan Croats, Siyabulela Mcimeli, Damian Overmeyer, Craig Joemath, Jadan Zeeman, Riyaaz Koopstadt, Shuaib Martin, Khanya Alex Dyani, Relebohile Matima, Lutando Mpokotya, Leandro De Sousa. UFH: Nkosiyethu Ngobe, Someleze Kapteni, Bonke Nxiwa, Mbeko Bungane, Athenkosi Masiza, Athenkosi Dobe, Bubele Gcuku, Snethemba Sibeko, Thabani Mqambeli, Sinobom Kapase, Oko Filtane. UJ 1-0 CUT Log leaders UJ hosted a struggling CUT and the Orange Army becomes the first team to win in three consecutive games in this year's campaign, retaining their top of the log status after round 5. Siphosihle Nkambule scored the only goal that mattered for the day, a tap in goal after Tumelo Molubi played a short corner after Sanele Ndlalane delivered a perfect cross in the first 20 minutes of the game. CUT emerged from the break a different team and found their rhythm in the first few minutes of the second half and continued to applied pressure despite UJ forward, Tokoloho Vilakazi hitting the woodwork in the 52 minute. Although it was not a convincing win for UJ, the Orange Army is yet to taste a defeat in this year's campaign. Scorers: Siphosihle Nkambule – UJ FNB Player of the Match - Karabo Modisane UJ: Lona Richard Banga, Maselesele Makoti, Thabiso Mathambeka , Thabo Moshikere, Advocate Mokwena, Tumelo Molubi, Karabo Modisane, Sanele Ndlalane, Philane Masondo, Ntokozo Mathobela, Siphosihle Nkambule. CUT: Motlalentwa Jacob Mbolekwa, Lefa Matlase, Simo Ndlovu, Khotso Mphene, Tumelo Mothabeng, Oratile Mothibedi, Lehlohonolo Nkaekae, Mpho Bartman, Malefetsane Matale, Pule Macdonald Thekiso, Mbongiseni Ngwenya. UFS 1-1 NWU Late drama in Bloemfontein as the Kovies and Eagles settle for a share of points. The UFS defence in the opening 15 minutes was outstanding as they managed to weather wave-after-wave of attack by the visitors. Ethan Goldstone 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. UFS were reduced to 10-men in the 66th minute when the regular captain, Aphiwe Zulu, was shown a straight red card following an altercation when tempers started to flare as the frustration started to creep in. With five minutes of regular time left, NWU, scored the equaliser courtesy of a Khopotso Moshapo header to salvage a point from the game. Scorers: Ethan Goldstone - UFS , Khopotso Moshapo - NWU FNB Player of the Match – Ethan Goldstone UFS: Tisetso Seodinyane, Iviwe Dyabuza, Obakeng Seekoei, Aphiwe Zulu, Thandolwethu Khoza, Lizwi Kunene, Jarome Jansen, Reatlehile Meya, Arlonso Diedricks, Jermein Marou, Boy Rantsoti. NWU: Kamogelo Matane, Aphelele Sibisi, Heaven Sereetsi, Kananelo Motsoeneng, Khopotso Moshapo, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Thabang Majoro, Lesiba Mahlong, Lesego Motsepe, Lucas Seromo, Pascual Tivane.

Leathan Croats believes Ajax Cape Town Academy gave him the motivation to be where he is now – playing goalkeeper for UWC in the Men’s Varsity Football competition. The 22-year-old UWC number one stopper used to be a midfielder growing up. He is currently studying for a Higher Certificate in Economic Development and looking to move on to study BED in Languages and Life Orientation. "Growing up I used to be a midfielder but I’ve always admired the goalkeeping position. At the age of nine, I decided to become a goalkeeper. Two years later I was playing for the Ajax Academy and that gave me the motivation to continue in that position," says Croats. Croats have played for a few top clubs in South Africa before joining Cape Town side Antalyaspor JPM this season. He was part of the Clarewood JPM FC when the side took part in the Nedbank Cup. He says he has now set his sights higher. "In five years I would like to see myself either playing professionally for a PSL team, if not, I’d like to see myself qualified and teaching. The main goal is to be in a good state financially, health-wise and emotionally. As a goalkeeper, I think any footballer's dream in general is to go professional.And my goal is to just maintain a consistent performance in every match I play in and hopefully, the right offers will come knocking." Croats say he plays FIFA (video game series) a lot and uses the platform to inspire himself in a way that he would like to use in the coming years. He believes the game inspires him to work hard. "The soccer player I admire the most is Ronwen Williams. In terms of my teammates, the player I admire the most is Damian Overmeyer because of his hard-working mindset, his perseverance and his never give up attitude." Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE. by Ayanda Frances Felem

The Madibaz will not be overawed by the occasion during the 2023 Varsity Netball tournament. Coach Lana Krige says her team have developed an attitude of being competitive, no matter who the opponents are, over the years. “We are learning to keep that mentality for longer in our games and we are well-prepared. The girls are strong and mentally tough, and we are hoping that will be showcased on the court.” The Madibaz Class of 2023 is a mix of youth and experience which gives a good balance to the team, the long-serving coach says.Several players have Varsity Netball experience and those in their 20s should work well with the four first years to add an exciting dimension. Krige points out that her players are getting “better and better” despite having already played a long season. “I believe that is because we have had a bigger squad which includes quite a few local players who know each other. That has been complemented by some girls from other provinces and that dynamic has been fantastic.” The excitement around the Netball World Cup in Cape Town, as well as the development of men’s netball at Madibaz Sport, has offered extra motivation for the Madibaz to perform well. They have followed the same training programmes used in the lead-up to the recent University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament in Stellenbosch. “The USSA week is always tough because it comprises a group of different personalities who have to live, play, train and eat together for a week. That can sometimes take a toll on your performances,” Krige says. “We have some strong characters in our squad, and I am looking forward to them pulling us through. In Varsity Netball, the focus is on just one weekend at a time.” As important as it is to get a good start, Krige says their emphasis would be on executing their strategy rather than “going out there to chase results”. Winning is important for building momentum but playing quality netball is also high on the agenda. “We want to achieve our goals by successfully executing the targets we have set ourselves. Once you start chasing the scoreboard, you can lose your systems.” Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE.

The support of the fans in the stands at the 2023 Men’s Varsity Football competition has been overwhelming. Their enthusiastic cheering has spurred their respective teams on to great heights, and none more so than those of the Orange Army, UJ. Varsity Football spoke to Mhlobowethu Hoyi, the head of student life at UJ, about the Orange Army’s supporters. Where were you born and raised and where are you currently residing? I was born in a small town called Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape. I am currently residing in Kempton Park. When did the love for soccer start? It started when I was 15 years old. I used to play for a club called Port Alfred United Brothers (PAUBS) as the goalkeeper. Take us through your journey of becoming a Super Fan. I decided early on that I wanted to be a part of the Orange Army supporters, and since then I have never stopped. How did the UJ Football Club become the team they are now? They have grown greatly, first qualifying for the ABC Motsepe playoffs and then also qualifying to campaign there next season. Who are your favourite soccer clubs? In South Africa it is Kaizer Chiefs, in the English Premier League it is Chelsea, in Germany it is Bayern Munich and in Spain it is Madrid. What has been your best and worst moment since being with UJ? The best moment was witnessing both the ladies and men winning the Varsity Football tournament. The worst moment was when we lost to TUT last year in the final of the Men’s Varsity tournament. How are your preparations for home games? I do my normal job by going to the office and making sure that my primary job duties are done. After work, I go home and change and meet other supporters outside the sports office. How are the fans and logistics when travelling? Most of the time we organise transport for them, and they are very cooperative. How's your relationship with the players and technical team? The relationship is perfectly well with all the teams including the technical team. Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE. By Gontse Hlophe

NWU Eagles goalkeeper, Kamogelo Matane, has emerged as a rising star with an impressive skill set tailored to meet the demands of the game. Hailing from the vibrant town of Mafikeng, this aspiring shot-stopper has captured the attention of enthusiasts through his exceptional adaptability and prowess across a spectrum of match scenarios. Throughout this year’s competition, Matane has stood steadfast as the last line of defence for NWU. Over the course of four games, he has proven his mettle by thwarting numerous attempts against the team. Having conceded merely three goals while making a slew of crucial saves, Matane's performance places him among the standout performers for NWU. Matane boasts a mastery of playing with his feet, adept communication with the defensive line, control of spaces and precision in releasing teammates offensively. These attributes which are crucial in modern football, underscore his strategic acumen and tactical finesse. The journey into goalkeeping for Matane commenced in 2007, fuelled by the legendary Itumeleng Khune's inspiration. So profound was this influence that he embraced the moniker 'Khune' during his matches. Progressing from the grassroots, he joined NWU's ranks in 2021, marking a significant step in his blossoming career. Matane's expertise extends beyond the field, elevating his understanding of the game's intricacies. Prior to donning NWU's colours, he exhibited his prowess with Mmabatho Rabbits, an indicator of his steady rise in the soccer arena. His vision encompasses becoming a professional goalkeeper, a testament to his dedication and passion for his craft. Within the NWU team, his role holds integral importance, with ambitions to propel the team into the knockout stages of Varsity football. Matane perceives Varsity Football as a vital platform for young talents to showcase their abilities, potentially catching the eye of professional scouts. Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE. by Phenyo Mokgothu

The one sure way to get Marichelle Visagie's adrenaline pumping is to hand her a netball and tell her to go play. "Netball is my happy place. Nothing comes close to being on the court with teammates united in one goal: to win. It is when memories are made and nothing else matters," explains the third-year Tuks BSc Sports Science student. Visagie will be wearing the Tuks colours in the 2023 Varsity Netball tournament. On paper, Tuks seems to be a young team. Still, their opponents could regret underestimating them in this year’s competition. During the recent USSA Tournament, Tuks only lost twice. On both occasions, it was against last year's Varsity champions Maties. Maties ended up beating Tuks 49-42 in the USSA final. According to Visagie, what Tuks might need experience wise, they make up with their never say die attitude. "It is a case of the stiffer the competition, the better we play." Visagie plays as a goal attack and is pretty good at doing so. Playing for the Boababs in the Telkom League, she ended up being the best shooter of the B-section. Surprisingly the Tuks player has never played any position other than goal attack. "I have been playing as a goal attack since eight. So I know the tricks of the trade. One of the things I bring to a team is certainty because of how I play. I am confident in what I can do. "The challenge for me as a goal attack is to be a playmaker. You have to be able to read the game to know when to do what. I like to keep my opponents guessing as to what I might do. Depending on what is happening on the court, I might shoot for a goal or try to set the goal shooter up to be in a more favourable position to score." Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE.

There were a handful of great performances as the halfway mark of the 2023 Varsity Football delivered some dramatic results, including a stunning victory for UWC over defending champions TUT and an epic away win for VUT over UFS. Here are our standout players of round 4. Leandro de Sousa (UWC) Striker Leandro de Sousa was a standout, winning most of UWC’s high-long balls and intimidating the TUT defence with his speed while creating scoring chances for his side. It is no wonder he was delighted with his performance: “This is a massive win and a huge statement for us. Personally, I haven't scored many goals and as a striker, it is my job, it's a little bittersweet but we will take it." Ntokozo Mgidi (VUT) Midfielder Ntokozo Mgidi had a massive impact against UFS. He ran good lines and put himself in the correct place at exactly the right time and deserved his brace of goals, with the first coming within 20 seconds of the kick-off. If it was not for the woodwork, he would have recorded a hat trick. Siphosihle Nkambule (UJ) Centre forward Siphosihle Nkambule was very impressive, getting the equaliser on the stroke of halftime. This after missing 18 minutes into the game. He got his second of the game in the second half after a clumsy mistake from the UFH defenders. Nkambule had the most touches in the opponent's box, created three goal-scoring opportunities and helped UJ get their second home win. Kanalelo Motsoeneng (NWU) NWU captain Kanalelo Motsoeneng’s unwavering consistency, defensive prowess and exceptional leadership were notable. He had a strong presence at the back and greatly contributed to the team's performance. His leadership qualities also proved pivotal in guiding and motivating his teammates on the field. Make sure to watch round 5 on 24 August and keep an eye out to see if they continue their fine form. FIXTURES HERE.

UFS forward Boy Rantsoti will be targeting a repeat performance on Thursday when they host NWU-Mafikeng in round five of the 2023 Men’s Varsity Football tournament. The striker was simply sublime in round three when they earned their first win with a 1-0 victory against UWC at Shimla Park. However, last week UFS slipped up with a 2-0 defeat to VUT at home, and this has put pressure on the Free State outfit to reach the semi-finals for a third straight year. NWU are former champions and will be a tough nut to crack, but the Lions are confident that they can return to winning ways in a game where victory is essentially non-negotiable. Rantsoti says after their opening round draws they had to dig deep for the win and introspection was required as well. This is something they have adopted again following what was their first defeat of the season. “The first two games weren't good for us as Kovsies, because we played to consecutive draws. Going into the UWC game, we had to dig deep as a team to get the result that we wanted and fortunately, it worked out perfectly for us. “I had to work hard to make sure that I gave the team the points we needed and it finally happened against UWC. “Before that game, I had to do some introspection on what I have done for the team in the last two games. I then told myself that I need to do better and I ended up scoring.” Rantsoti adds that while the defeat wasn’t a setback, it’s now a matter of getting back onto the horse and fighting for a top-four finish. “During the VUT game, things didn't go according to plan for us, but all is not lost. “We have another chance to redeem ourselves this coming week against NWU and we will continue to fight for a semi-final.” Thursday’s clash against NWU in Bloemfontein is scheduled to kick off at 18:30. Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE.

The first bumper weekend of the 2023 Varsity Netball tournament is done and dusted. The teams have settled their nerves and are ready for this coming weekend’s action at the UJ Imbizo Hall Soweto Campus (Saturday 26 August – Monday 28 August). Here’s a look at the goal percentages of the goal shooters of the eight teams after the two days of competition at the Wits Sports Hall (Sunday 20 August – Monday 21 August). Maties Lisa Ingwersen 69%, Chrisley Marshall 74%, Rochelle Maree 61%, Zane Bodensteyn 86%. UP-Tuks Alice Kennon 94%, Marichelle Visagie 74%, Kamogelo Maseko 73%, Amber Marshall 95%. NWU Sunel Smit 57%, Caitlin Du Plessis 71%, Jade Egwatu 67%. UFS-Kovsies Sheneca Smith 68%, Xandri Fourie 76%. Wits Giada Prinsloo 84%, Amy Horn 50%, Nicola Wilson 33%. UJ Muhluri Hlatshwayo 89%, Owethu Ngubane 85%, Henlize Basson 50%. Madibaz Kaylin Coetzer 49%, Andrea van der Merwe 100%, Mothira Mohammed 67%, Juanita van Tonder 47%. UWC Liandre Schoeman 89%, Adri Kannemeyer 61%, Shevonne Hoffman 82%, Renisha Daniels 20%. The next bumper weekend takes place at UJ on the 26, 27 and 28 August. Who will continue their good form and who will up their game. Fixture HERE. Ticket HERE.

Day 2 of the first bumper weekend of the 2023 Varsity Netball tournament at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg delivered the goods with defending champions Maties and NWU made to sweat for their victories. There was also a historic first win for Wits in the competition while UP-Tuks continued on their winning ways. WITS 34 MADIBAZ 33 Debutants Wits kept their supporters on the edge of their seats as they picked up a dramatic 34-33 win over the Madibaz. It was their first of the tournament. The first quarter saw an impressive effort for the Witsies, who took a slender 8-7 lead, landing all their goal attempts in the process. The Madibaz on the other end struggled with their accuracy but it also did not stop them from keeping within touching distance of the hosts. The second quarter continued similarly with Wits continuing to convert their opportunities. Giada Prinsloo was instrumental in helping her team retain their lead at the half-time break (17-13). The resumption of the tightly contested clash saw the tide swinging the other way in the championship third quarter, with the Madibaz becoming the enforcers. They seemed to play a lot more short and sharp balls at a rapid pace that pegged the Witsies back, forcing more errors. This was reflected on the scoreboard as well, with the Madibaz taking a first-time lead with the score at 26-22. The fourth quarter brought about a do-or-die situation for Wits, who looked like they would take advantage of a power play, but the composure shown by the Madibaz kept them at bay. Despite chasing the game for much of the final 15 minutes, Wits mounted a late comeback to clinch a dramatic 34-33 win. Quarter scores: 8-7 / 17-13 / 22-26 / 34-33 Player of the match: Kelly du Toit (Madibaz) 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. 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. UP-TUKS 65 UWC 48 UP-Tuks shrugged off their sluggish start from yesterday to record a well-worked 65-48 win over UWC. The first quarter set the tone for the rest of the match as Tuks comfortably led 18-8 after the first 15 minutes. UWC struggled to contain the Tshwane side defensively. The second quarter saw Tuks continue to pile on the goals, but the twist came when they called for their power play. UWC were the ones that utilised it the best, coming to within 11 points of the former champions. This was a big confidence boost for the Western Cape team, and they went into the half-time break within touching distance (33-22). Tuks came out firing in the third quarter while UWC struggled to get a real grip on the game and gain momentum. Tuks coach Jenny van Dyk was also animated on the sideline, putting her troops in order when there were errors on the ball that were letting them down. The championship quarter eventually ended with Tuks leading UWC 53-34. The fourth quarter saw the final power play being called by UWC, where they dominated as well, piling on a further six goals. It made for an impressive overall reading of a 12-2 score line to UWC in both power plays. Tuks were however able to hold their nerve well outside of the power plays, recording an astonishing 65 out of 69 goal attempts. Quarter scores: 18-8 / 33-22 / 53-34 / 65-48 Player of the match: Milla Coetzee (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. 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 47 UJ 43 The clash between NWU and UJ was always expected to pack the heat and bring a vibrant crowd to their feet. The on-court action certainly did not disappoint as NWU were made to sweat for a 47-43 victory. The game saw a slow start from both teams in this tightly contested duel. It was NWU who edged the scoreboard tally at the end of the first quarter (10-9). The Orange Army kept in close pursuit of their counterparts but saw the possessional stats leaning towards the ladies from Potchefstroom. The second quarter saw NWU edging the ball stats once again while UJ would’ve hoped for a better conversion rate as they left a few goals on the court. At the break, it was NWU who remained in front (23-20). The second half saw the seesaw battle between the two teams continue, where a vital power play was introduced in the third quarter by NWU, which both teams used well. The fourth quarter saw the intensity lifted as both teams looked to leave it all out on the court. With just over three minutes to go in the game, UJ called for the final power play, which they capitalised well on, but they could not keep NWU from scoring goals of their own and walking away with the victory. Quarter scores: 10-9 / 23-20 / 37-32 / 47-43 Player of the match: Caitlin du Plessis (NWU) NWU: Sunel Smit, Caitlin du Plessis, Jade Egwatu, Jomari Lübbe, Johanné Meyer, Michelle Geduld , Tlotlang Mokomela, Keke Molotsi, Favour Umeh, Chelize Swart, Sanmarie Visser, Martiné Jordaan. UJ: Cornelia Mupenda, Boitumelo Mahloko, Yanke Broodryk, Mukhatshelwa Tshisikhawe, Adivhaho Tshivhiahuvhi, Zanell Blignaut, Sanelisiwe Ntobela, Londeka Buthelezi, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, Owethu Ngubane, Zene de Waal, Henlize Basson. MATIES 46 UFS-KOVSIES 43 Defending champions Maties showed great consistency throughout their game against UFS-Kovsies to claim a nail-biting 46-43 win. The game served as a perfect finale of the first bumper weekend. The match was a well-contested one throughout, with Maties getting the ball rolling after the first quarter to come out with a narrow 12-10 lead. The second quarter followed a similar rhythm with Maties remaining on top of their game when it came to disrupting the Kovsies’ attacking moves, making vital interceptions. Kovsies did well not to allow Maties to get too far from them on the scoreboard, with the two teams settling for a Maties lead of 23-21 at the half-time interval. Both teams opted to not invoke their power plays in the third quarter, keeping the match on a knife’s edge. Maties, featuring nine first-years in their squad, concluded the quarter leading 34-31. The final quarter was a nail-biter as Kovsies showed great courage to fight back. After the first power play, introduced by Maties, Kovsies had managed to claw their way back to level matters at 40-40 with three minutes left to play. The final power play came into effect in the last two minutes, where Maties were able to race off to a hard-fought three-goal victory. Quarter scores: 12-10 /23-21 / 34-31 / 46-43 Player of the match: Reratilwe Letsoalo (UFS-Kovsies) 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. 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. Full fixture list HERE. Information on tickets HERE. by S’fiso Nyawo