The Varsity Football round-robin stages have officially come to an end, and the semi-finals line-up has now been confirmed. UJ and NWU will enjoy home-ground advantage in the next stage, as they prepare to face TUT and UFS respectively. In last night’s actions, NWU produced a dominant performance to defeat Wits 3-0 at the Mahikeng Stadium, sealing their spot with authority. TUT, meanwhile, caused a surprise in Bloemfontein as they edged UFS 2-1 in a tightly contested clash to sneak into the top four and book their semi-final berth. UJ continued their impressive form by maintaining a perfect record, edging CUT 1-0 at the CUT Stadium to finish the round-robin stages unbeaten. Despite a convincing 4-0 victory over DUT, UP-Tuks fell agonizingly short and were ultimately denied a place in the knockout rounds, bringing their campaign to a close.   Here are the players who made the biggest impact in their respective matches. Matome Rangata (UP-Tuks Football) Sterling performance for the Tuks winger, two assists and a goal to conclude The Stripe Generation’s campaign. Rangata was lethal in attack for Tuks being involved in three of Tuks four goals on the day. The explosive winger caused problems for DUT defense Tuks were offensive on the wing with Rangata playing an integral role switching from left to right wings throughout the match. Involved in the first goal setting up Risen Albert before registering himself on the score sheet in the opening stanza. Set-up Quinton Stokes-Waller for Tuks’ third goal before closing things off with another assist to Mathuane Selotola for the fourth goal.     Tshepo Mosieleng (UJ Football): The UJ midfielder proved to be a constant threat, creating several scoring opportunities for his teammates while showcasing his versatility by causing problems for the opposition both in the heart of the midfield and out wide on the wings.   Surprise Khoza (TUT Football): Surprise Khoza, the big defender of TUT was immense in the defence for the visitors, and he was instrumental in the UFS being unable to score more. His powerful header for the match-winning goal was the cherry on the cake.   Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk (NWU Football) In NWU’s 3-0 victory over Wits, right winger Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk delivered a decisive performance. He opened the scoring in the 5th minute with a composed finish inside the penalty area, giving NWU early momentum. In the second half, Van Schalkwyk turned provider, supplying the assist for captain Aphelele Sibisi’s goal that doubled the lead. His sharp runs, vision, and ability to unsettle defenders made him a constant threat on the right flank. By contributing directly to two goals, Van Schalkwyk was central to NWU’s dominance and stood out as one of the key figures of the match.   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.

UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on Friday 19 September Winner will be announced after the final. The Varsity Football Women’s 2025 final is set for Friday, 19 September, as defending champions UWC face off against log leaders UJ at the UJ Soweto Stadium (kick-off at 7pm). But before we find out who will be crowned champions, it’s your chance to have a say and vote for the FNB Player of the Tournament 2025 and celebrate this year’s most outstanding performers. Here are your nominees. We asked the eight head coaches of the women's competition to nominate their top three players who impressed them the most during the tournament and they were not allowed to nominate a player from their own university. The nomination process is weighted with first position worth three points, second position two points and third position one point. The nominations from each coach were then added up and these are the three players who received the most points. Voting is now open to the public whose votes will determine the overall winner. UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on Friday 19 September Winner will be announced after the final. The nominees: Gugu Dhlamini:  the second year in a row that Gugu has been nominated for the award. UJ's maestro has once again impressed as a key figure in the Orange Army's unbeaten run to the final. She has represented Banyana Banyana and will no doubt be impactful if UJ are to lift the trophy. Thabiso Senyatsi:  the TUT striker has had a excellent season and bagged 4 goals for the Red Army. She made her Banyana Banyana debut last year and will no doubt continue to impress on the national stage. Thato Mofolo:  currently the top scorer in the tournament with 6 goals to her name. The UJ star is a big reason the Orange Army has scored the most goals out of all the teams and her talent was rewarded earlier in the year with a call up to the national team. The public can cast their votes below up until 9am on Friday 19 September. The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the final on the same day. Book your tickets to the women's football final on Friday 19 September at 7pm HERE .

The Varsity Football round-robin stages have officially concluded, with plenty of drama and excitement in Round 7. NWU delivered a commanding performance at the Mahikeng Stadium, overpowering Wits with a dominant 3-0 victory to secure a home semi final. At Shimlas Park in Bloemfontein, TUT caused a major upset by defeating UFS 2-1, a result that allowed them to squeeze into fourth place and claim the last available semi final spot. Despite a convincing 4-0 win over DUT, UP-Tuks fell just short and were unable to book a place in the knockout rounds. Meanwhile, UJ maintained their unbeaten run in the group stages, edging CUT 1-0 at the CUT Stadium to seal their place in the semifinals and finish the round stages on a high.   UFS 1-2 TUT   The four-time champions, TUT Football, kept their Varsity Football 2025 campaign alive on Thursday by stunning the high-flying UFS Football with a 2-1 victory at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein. The Red Army broke their two-match losing streak at exactly the right time in the competition. For UFS, however, it was a disappointing evening as they created plenty of chances but were undone by lapses in concentration at crucial moments. The scoring was opened in the 8th minute when Lucky Raphala converted a penalty for TUT against the run of play. The referee judged that Omphemetse Athibeng had handled the ball in the box during a corner. That early goal gave TUT more control of the match, whereas up to that point, it had been the hosts applying the pressure. UFS slowly regained their rhythm and started creating more shots on target. Their persistence finally paid off when Jose Mondi pounced on a loose ball and drilled it into the back of the net, via a deflection, for the equaliser just before half-time. Just as UFS looked to be gaining the upper hand, the towering Surprise Khoza restored TUT’s lead in the 64th minute with a superb header from a pinpoint delivery into the box. That proved to be the match-winning goal. Despite the defeat, UFS have done enough to secure their spot in the playoffs, but it remains to be seen who their next opponents will be.   SCORERS:   UFS: Jose Mondi.   TUT: Lucky Raphala, Surprise Khoza.   Player of the Match:  Surprise Khoza (TUT)   TEAMS:   UFS: Lethokuhle Makhaya, Ben Kraai, Kwethemba Ndlovu, 3 Xolani Mqwathi, Iviwe Dyabuza (captain), Tshepo Ndlovu, Jarome Jansen, 20 Jose Mondi, 18 Kagiso Semenya, Kagisho Lekholoa, Omphemetse Athibeng TUT: Luyanda Mandindi, Lehlomo Tolo, Kediwe Ncenya, Surprise Khoza, Alan Moja (captain), Sphesihle Mazibuko, Katlego Motlhale, Menzukuthula Ntshangase, Lucky Raphala, Lindokuhle Nyandeni, Precious Mohale.   NWU 3-0 Wits   NWU Football delivered a commanding performance in round 7 of the Varsity Football tournament, defeating Wits Football 3-0 in Mahikeng on Thursday night. The home side made an explosive start, finding the breakthrough within the opening five minutes. A swift move down the right flank saw Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk perfectly placed near the penalty spot to convert a low cross and hand NWU an early 1-0 lead. The goal lifted the intensity of the match, with both teams enjoying equal spells of possession. Wits, despite conceding early, maintained composure and looked to build attacking momentum, but they were denied by NWU’s well-organised backline. By the 30-minute mark, NWU had registered three shots on target and several promising entries into the Wits penalty area, underlining their attacking intent. Wits responded with periods of possession but lacked penetration in the final third. The scoreline remained 1-0 at halftime, with NWU looking the sharper side in front of goal. The second half began with NWU pressing high and pinning Wits deep in their half. Their dominance was rewarded in the 51 st  minute when captain Aphelele Sibisi doubled the advantage. Once again, the threat came from the right flank, as Van Schalkwyk turned provider, linking up with the midfield before setting up Sibisi, who calmly slotted home for 2-0. NWU midfield trio-controlled possession, winning duels and recycling play efficiently, leaving Wits chasing shadows. The visitors struggled to carve out clear chances and were limited to long-range efforts that failed to trouble the NWU goalkeeper. The result was sealed in the 89th minute when substitute Xolani Masethi produced the goal of the night. Spotting space outside the box, he unleashed a powerful long-range strike that flew beyond the Wits keeper, making it 3-0 and sending the home supporters into celebration. NWU’s blend of early attacking sharpness, midfield dominance, and defensive discipline ensured a deserved victory.   SCORERS :   NWU: Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk, Aphelele Sibisi, Xolani Masethi.   Player of the Match : Lucas Seromo (NWU)                      TEAMS:   NWU: Ethan Mokwena, Lucky Letwaba, Lucas Seromo, Aphelele Wandile Sibisi, Knowledge Muleya, Thabang Majoro, Thapelo Letsholonyane, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Momelezi Mngati, Bokamoso Ramoshoane and Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk Wits:  Lwando Mvinjana, Obakeng Leping, Kgwadi Molepo, Tebogo Masemola, Simphiwe Mabena, Karabo Tsoane, Prince Manku, Tumelo Nkwe, Tshepho Mothiba, Mxolisi Mthiya and Kaihil Cloete.   UP-Tuks 4-0 DUT   UP-Tuks Football finish fifth on the log with a 4-0 victory over struggling DUT Football. The Stripe Generation played hosts to struggling DUT desperate to keep their playoffs hopes alive. The opening half saw both sides asking questions early on. DUT had a chance to take a lead inside the first minute, but Bonga Mthembu saw his effort goes wide. Tuks thought they had a penalty on the 20 th minute when Raymond Matlamela was brought down in the box however referee was not interested. Their efforts were rewarded within a couple of minutes when playmaker Raymond Matlamela released Risen Albert who saw his shot blocked by keeper Samkelo Zulu. The save only went as far as Quinton Stokes-Waller’s who made no mistake and poked into the net. The home side pleated their lead swiftly through Matome Rangata. It was Tuks on the break and Rangata with a brilliant run out wide into the box and slotted it in the bottom corner. Tuks heading into the break with a two-goal cushion. The Stripe Generation picked up where they left off and continue to run rampage on the visitors. A pleasing cross hits Stokes-Waller before hitting DUT defender to take Tuks 3 nil up. It was not long before substitute Mathuane Selotola made it four for the Pretoria based side with another counter attack goal, goalkeeper committed and Rangata sent a stunning cross to Selotola. The experienced forward first slipped before he regathered and placed at the back of the net. A comfortable win for the Tuks to wrap up their campaign.   SCORERS:   UP-Tuks: Quinton Stokes-Waller (2), Matome Rangata, Mathuane Selotola.   Player of the Match: Risen Albert (UP-Tuks)   TEAMS:   UP-Tuks: Leathan Croats, Atlegang Masemola, Edward Rankwe, Damian Overmeyer, Nkosana Shabalala, Camagu Mdevulana, Samukelo Ngodela, Matome Rangata, Raymond Tshwane Matlamela, Risen Albert, Quintin Stokes-Waller DUT: Samkelo Zulu, Luyanda Ntuli, Xolani Mkhonza, Sifundo Ngema, Nkululeko Nkosi, Sbonelo Ngidi, Thalente Mkhize, Phiwayinkosi Mchunu, Bonga Mthembu, Cebani Ngidi, Ndumiso Khali.   CUT 0-1 UJ   In their final clash before the semi-finals, table-topping UJ Football maintained their unbeaten record with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against a battling CUT Football in Bloemfontein. UJ, dominant all season, showcased their class, while CUT, with just one win, fought valiantly but fell short. UJ controlled the midfield, dictating play with authority. Tokoloho Vilakazi struck early, firing home a clinical goal to give the visitors the lead. UJ’s relentless pressure kept CUT on the back foot, though the home side’s defence, led by captain Thabang Mokoena, stood firm to keep the score at 1-0 by halftime. The second half followed a similar pattern, with UJ’s attack, orchestrated by the creative Tshepo Mosieleng, creating numerous chances. However, poor finishing prevented the Johannesburg side from extending their lead. CUT showed resilience, with substitute Mpho Ntabi nearly equalising midway through the second half, only to be thwarted by a brilliant defending and a save from UJ goalkeeper Kyle van Rensburg. As the match neared its end, CUT pushed desperately for a draw, but UJ’s defence remained resolute, repelling every attack. The visitors’ discipline and composure under pressure ensured they held on to secure the win, allowing them to finish the league stage unbeaten and head into the semifinals brimming with confidence and momentum.   SCORERS:   UJ:  Tokoloho Vilakazi   Player of the Match: Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza (UJ)   TEAMS:   CUT:  Siseko Faku, Thabang Mokoena (C), Edward Tshabalala, Alwande Sibiya, Keletso Khumalo, Siyabonga Mzelem, Pogisho Dikole, Polokeho Letlema, Mzwakhe Shabalala, Nkosingiphile Lubisi, Boeletsang Rankali. UJ: Thabo Moshikere, Ndabezinhle Nkosi (C), Yasidu Lifa, Karabo Modisane, Ngwako Ramaloko, Keletso Sekhwela, Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza, Kyle Van Rensburg, Tokoloho Vilakazi, Tumelo Machete, Tshepo Mosieleng.     Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as the UJ Orange Army prepares to face defending champions UWC in the Varsity Women’s Football 2025 final. For UJ, winning isn't just about taking home the trophy but it's about delivering a special gift for the university's 20 th  anniversary. "Bringing the trophy home would be a perfect gift for the university," said coach Nthabeleng Modiko. "We know how formidable UWC is, and we don't take them lightly. We're calling on all our supporters from UJ's four campuses to come out in full force and help us get this win. "We've been preparing for this moment since our loss in the 2024 semi-final. We've analysed our mistakes and have been working tirelessly to ensure that we are ready for this moment." After winning the title in 2022, they fell short in the 2023 final against UWC. This time, they are determined to reclaim their spot at the top. The team’s run to the final has been particularly impressive, as they haven’t conceded a single goal. Captain Sthembile Sandleni, a veteran of the 2022 championship team, is confident in her squad’s ability. "We need to approach this final with the same energy and focus we've had throughout the tournament," she said. "Our main goal is to score goals and win the match at full-time and avoiding a penalty shootout. I had the privilege to lift the trophy in my first year at UJ and it would be great to assist the current first year student-athletes to also enjoy the feeling of being a champion.” The Orange Army has risen through the ranks with an impressive trajectory, capturing the second Varsity Football title on their home turf in 2022. “It would be great to see Thato [Mofolo], walk away with the golden boot award at the end of the tournament,” said Sandleni. “I’m excited that we have reached the 2025 final without conceding a single goal. We worked hard to get this far. It was heartbreaking for everyone in 2024 for starting very well in the round-robin stage and crashed out in the semifinal against TUT. So, I’m very proud and we want to win it for our university’s 20 th  birthday celebrations.”   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.   By: Collen Maepa.

As the Varsity Football 2025 tournament reaches its climax, teams are fiercely contesting the top four spots to secure semi-final berths. Wits Football remains in contention, tied on eight points and occupying fourth place, with TUT Football in fifth and UP-Tuks Football close behind, setting the stage for a potential upset in the battle for semi-final qualification. Wits, making their return to Varsity Football, began the tournament strongly, winning their first two home games to collect six points. However, momentum slowed after a challenging away loss to UJ in their third match, followed by consecutive draws. As they head into their final group-stage clash against NWU Football in North West, the Educated Footballers remain in a tight race to secure a semi-final berth. Striker Simphiwe Mabena remains optimistic despite the team’s current slump, believing they still have a strong chance to turn things around and secure a spot in the semi-finals. "As a team we've played our hearts out and gave it our all each and every game but if we could have capitalised most of our chances, we'd be sitting in a comfortable position, but not all hope is lost. We go to North West and fight for one another, fight for the brand of our supporters and most importantly do it for ourselves and families,” said Mabena. "Playing the final is our main goal but it won't come easy we have to work extra hard in order to achieve that goal.” Mabenahas been impactful for Wits with two goals in the tournament. Also paving his football career in ABC Motsepe League, he is grateful to play in the Varsity Football tournament. "The feeling is priceless to be honest, Varsity Football is a platform to showcase our talents and to also represent one of the biggest brands in the country means a lot to me," he said. The match is scheduled to take place at Mafikeng Stadium in North West on Thursday, 18 September, with kick-off set for 18:30.   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.   By: Andisiwe Sigoxo

The UFS Kovsies will be gunning for a home semi-final in Varsity Football on Thursday when they host the TUT in Bloemfontein in the final round before the playoffs. UFS have already booked their place in the semi-finals after last week’s 1–0 win over Wits, but the real prize would be securing the semi on home soil. That won’t be easy though, as TUT are four-time champions who know how to handle pressure. The team from Tshwane are still in with a shout of making the semis themselves and will arrive in Bloemfontein firing on all cylinders. For UFS to reach this stage is already a remarkable achievement. Their coach, Mokete Tsotetsi, only took charge a few days before the tournament kicked off. Despite a slow start, the Kovsies have gone on an impressive four-match winning streak. Tsotetsi believes the turnaround has been down to time, hard work from the players, and their willingness to buy into his philosophy. “We started slowly as we got to know each other and as the players began to understand my philosophy. The fitness levels I wanted also weren’t quite there at first, which explains the slow start,” said the former Bloemfontein Celtic centre-back. “But once the boys understood what I wanted from them and realised what they were capable of, they started to express themselves much better going forward — and the results followed.” Although a home semi-final is now within reach, Tsotetsi insists the focus is firmly on Thursday’s clash with TUT. “We’re definitely concentrating on this game. We’re up against TUT, who are, if I’m not mistaken, four-time champions. So, we know it’s going to be tough, and we’ll have to give it everything. Hopefully, it will be enough to secure that home semi-final. “But overall, I’m happy with the performance and dedication from the boys. They’ve improved a lot technically and tactically and shown that they are quality and committed players.” Thursday’s all-important Round 7 clash kicks off at 17:00 at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein.   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.

The dramatic Varsity Football 2025 season is fast approaching its conclusion, with just two playoff spots still up for grabs. The competition remains fierce as four teams continue to battle it out for a place in the knockout stages, ensuring an exciting finish to the group phase. Four time champions TUT Football have had a rollercoaster of a season as they struggled to gain consistency. The Pretoria based side head to Shimla Park wounded having suffered two consecutive defeats in the hands of log leaders UJ and third seeded NWU. With two wins, draws and losses in their six rounds, Bushy Moloi’s troops are 5 th  on the log standings equal points with 4 th place returnees Wits. Moloi did not hold back reacting to the six rounds. “It made us to look into proper solutions towards the end of the competition unlike others that have not went through the process,” said Moloi. “So, we are planning well. We couldn't convert our chances. We have been dealing with finishing a lot and defending set plays.” The season has kept all teams on the edge as teams often struggled to convert their chances. The Red Army on the other hand managed to only score five goals and conceded four in the process. Haunted by three injuries awaiting medical clearance, TUT will take on 2 nd  placed UFS who are already qualified for the semis, coach Bushy believes UFS are also under pressure of securing a home semi-final. “They will have to respect us also as much as they want to have the home semis,” he said. “We want to finish in the top four by the Grace of our Lord. Wits must also come out of Mahikeng and it's not simple, but we must win also and avoid the sudden qualification surprise of UP,” he said. “We will have to win at all costs, so, we are ready for the challenge as they might rest their players for semis.”   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.   By Lehlogonolo Ditshego

Aphelele Sibisi’s football journey began on the streets of Mandeni in KwaZulu-Natal, where he spent hours kicking a ball around with friends. Today, the 22-year-old defender leads the NWU Eagles into a decisive moment in the Varsity Football tournament. With one round-robin match left this week, NWU sit just a single point away from securing a semi final spot. Sibisi underlined his value in the Eagles’ previous outing, where he was named Player of the Match for a commanding display. “I am a disciplined, hard-working player, my biggest role is to bring a positive attitude and energy, especially in difficult moments of a game,” said Sibisi. “Seeing someone from my own community perform on that stage showed me that I could also belong there.” Relocating from KZN to Mahikeng in 2023 to join NWU came with challenges, particularly leaving his family behind. “I miss them, but every moment here has been a highlight. My passion for the game and this team keeps me going,” he says. As a leader, Sibisi is known not only for his defensive skills but also for lifting the team’s morale. His teammates often rely on his drive to keep them motivated during tough phases of a match. He dreams of one day signing a professional contract, but his immediate focus is on helping the Eagles secure a place in the semifinals and beyond. “I have a personal need to show how far I can go, that starts with giving everything for this team.”   Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.     By: Phenyo Mokgothu

UWC Women’s Football captain Tiffany Kortjie has vowed that the team will be determined to defend their title in style, approaching the challenge with confidence and a positive spirit, while also making sure they go out there and enjoy every moment on the field. The Cape-based and defending champions will be making their second consecutive appearance in the Varsity Women’s Football final as they prepare to face UJ Women’s Football in what promises to be a thrilling showdown under the lights at UJ Soweto Stadium on Friday night. “UWC as a team will go out there and do their best, we will go out there and enjoy ourselves. If doing our best brings backs the title, then great,” said Kortjie. UWC have been unstoppable this season, winning all their Group A matches and scoring an impressive 15 goals along the way. Kortjie admitted that while the tournament has been physically demanding and heavy on the legs, the team understands the importance of sticking to their basics as they prepare for the crucial final showdown against UJ. “All we need to do is stick to our basics, what UWC is known for which is playing football. So, if we go out there and stick to our basics, not over complicating things for ourselves on the field then we’ll be great as a team,” she said. “The tournament was very heavy on the legs because of you play every day so we tried our best as a team to do all the recovery we can after each match.” She praised the coaching staff for their well-structured plans and guidance, which she believes have played a key role in the team’s impressive run this season. “Listening to what is said halftime by the coaches and doing corrections when going back onto the field,” she adds. “As well as picking each other up when one is down, the players showed real love and support to one another when one needed it.”   Final fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

NWU shocked unbeaten UJ while defending champions UFS Kovsies nearly stumbled against Maties in the last round of Varsity Netball 2025 at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg. In the two other matches Madibaz beat Varsity College and Wits scored an impressive victory over UP-Tuks.   The Orange Army will have a chance to avenge their loss when they take on the Eagles in the first semi-final on Monday 22 September (17:00). Kovsies and the Maroon Machine face off in the other semi-final encounter later, also on Monday (19:00).   MADIBAZ 64 – 35  VARSITY COLLEGE   Madibaz finished their 2025 campaign off with a convincing win over Varsity College. They also scored incredible victories over former champions NWU and UP-Tuks at the beginning of the season.   The game started at a slow pace with both teams appearing edgy and sussing out each other. Madibaz then utilised the Suzuki powerplay effectively to end out the first quarter with a five-goal cushion, 14-11.   The second quarter saw the Eastern Cape team extend their lead by moving the ball into their goal third and feeding into the circle with ease. The newcomers struggled to keep the intensity going and at the halftime break, the score was 29-15 in favour of Madibaz.   Varsity College mounted a strong fight back effort in the third quarter and showed intent to close the gap. Despite their defensive strategy, they still trailed their opponents when the whistle went, 44-25.   In the final 15 minutes Madibaz maintained their dominance over the Varsity Netball debutants. Their experience showed on the scoreboard as they secured a 64-35 victory. Varsity College gave it their all but ended their 2025 campaign without a win.   Quarter scores:  14-9 | 29-15 | 44-25 | 64-35 Player of the match:  Kaylin Coetzer (Madibaz)   Madibaz:  Anke Britz, Kaylin Coetzer, Hanniska van Vuuren, Simone Louw, Keagile Magadla, Luyanda Tsotetsi, Mbali Gunyazile, Edon Snyman, Kelly du Toit, Inge van Eyk, Bronwyn Goosen, Sibongokuhle Mnqayi.   Varsity College:  Adri Kannemeyer, Robyn Hathaway, Andrea Van der Merwe, Casey Weber, Sara Feintuch, Olukemi Amarachi Akuma Agbai, Elzaan Smith, Allison Nola Beck, Sikanyiso Mtshwepe, Stacey-Lee Feris, Caitlin Rose Cunningham, Isabella De Vincenzo. MATIES 47 – 55 UFS KOVSIES   Defending champions UFS Kovsies overcame a six-goal deficit at halftime to score an important and hard-fought victory over Maties with the semi-finals just a week away.   Both teams were riding high after their victories yesterday and it was a case of high-intensity netball right from the start. The Maroon Machine was on fire and ended the first quarter leading 12-10.    Maties picked up where they left off in the second quarter, dominating play and scoring quick goals to maintain and extend their lead. Cheered on by their substitutions on the bench, Kovsies tried to fight back. Brilliant intercepts by Maties’ Syntiche Kabuya however denied the defending champions to capitalise on their chances. When the halftime whistle blew, the Maroon Machine were 29-23 in front.   In a thrilling turn of events in the third quarter, Kovsies staged a remarkable comeback. Playing with a high tempo and gunning for every ball, the defending champions pushed Maties on the backfoot. The scoreboard changed to 37-40 in favour of Kovsies.   The final 15 minutes produced a physical and high-intensity battle, with both sides pushing hard for a win. Maties tried to fight back into the game, but Kovsies didn't slow down their attacking dominance and secured a vital 47-55 victory.   Quarter scores:  12-10 | 29-23 | 37-40 | 47-55 Player of the match:  Syntiche Kabuya (Maties)   Maties:  Hannah Kriel, Michelle van der Merwe, Lara Ehlers, Lize Rossouw, Syntiche Kabuya, Juane Maass, Thabisa Yekani, Bianca Odendaal, Chloe Parsadh, Kristine McGregor, Lara Steenkamp, Anke Stoffberg.   UFS Kovsies:  Liame de Lange, Reratilwe Letsoalo, Elene Vosloo, Xandri Fourie, Charne van Vuuren, Chanique Eyberg, Mari du Raan, Thando Mokoena, Leane Otto, Megan Erasmus, Syamthandanda Sambo, Mienke Delport.   UJ 42 – 50 NWU   In a nail-biting game that had fans in the Wits Sports Hall on the edge of their seats, NWU came from behind to dislodge UJ from their position at the top of the log. The loss meant Kovsies leapfrogged the Orange Army into the number one place.   Sending out final vibes, UJ and NWU showed clear intention from the start that this was a must win game for both of them. Goals were hard to come by and there were several impactful intercepts. The first 15 minutes of play ended with the Orange Army just holding out the Eagles, 9-8.   In the second quarter, both teams battled intensely for the entire 15 minutes. UJ managed to maintain their lead despite NWU's relentless chase. A standout performance from UJ star defender Cornelia Mupenda unsettled NWU's attacking prowess, leading to some costly mistakes. UJ held a narrow 19-17 lead going into halftime.   The Eagles utilised the Suzuki powerplay to great effect in the third quarter. With strong intercepts, they slowly gained the upper hand. At the end of the period of play, the scoreboard was 32-33 in favour of NWU.   In the final 15 minutes, the Eagles kept riding the wave of momentum, piling the pressure on UJ who had the support of their fans cheering them on. Despite the onslaught from all sides, NWU kept cool and went on to clinch a fantastic 42-50 victory.   Quarter scores:  9-8 | 19-17 | 32-33 | 42-50 Player of the match:  Cornelia Mupenda (UJ)   UJ:  Alexandra Meimaris, Juanika Steinmann, Kubura Abubakar, Minette Erasmus, Luyanda Msomi, Yanke Broodryk, Kamogelo Motsepe, Cornelia Mupenda, Sli Ngcobo, Tassnique Norman, Jade Niemand, Kaneilwe Seopa.   NWU:  Sunel Smit, Jaime Matfield, Andrya Joubert, Jessica Matjiu,  Johanné Meyer, Amori Matthee, Christi-Mari Coetzee, Vivian Venancio, Jade Egwatu, Liane van Lochem, Casey Davids, Johanne Meyer.     WITS 57 – 40 UP-TUKS   In the last match of regular play in the 2025 tournament, Wits scored an impressive victory over former champions UP-Tuks. The result left the Pretoria team second from the bottom while the Johannesburg team finished fifth.   In front of an enthusiastic home crowd, Wits stamped their authority already in the first quarter. The Stripe Generation were forced into several changes due to injury and that hampered their play. The period of play ended with Wits leading 12-9.   In the second quarter, the Joburg outfit leveraged their home advantage even further, dominating the game and pressing Tuks into making mistakes. They finished the quarter leading 25-17.   The intense third quarter saw Tuks trying to close the gap but Wits used the Suzuki powerplay to extend their lead amidst a stoppage due to a head injury to Tuks' Lebo Moremi. The quarter ended with the scoreboard 40-30 in Wits’ favour.   The last 15 minutes saw another Tuks injury, this time to Marichelle Visagie, who suffered a nosebleed that forced her to depart the court. Wits stretched their lead and closed out the match with a 57-40 win.   Quarter scores:  12-9 | 25-17 | 40-30 | 57-40 Player of the match:  Philasande Ntuli (Wits)   Wits : Alix Horn, Amber Marshall, Amy Horn, Mikhe van der Watt, Nomhle Hope Sibiya, Oratile Mokone, Philasande Ntuli, Shani Mokken, Zanele Soviya, Phozisa Ramncwana.   UP-Tuks:  Georgia de Jongh, Megan Holland, Juané Kruger, Devoné Lansberg, Thando Ngcobo, Caroline Paul, Anja van den Heever, Venece van Vollenhoven, Marichelle Visagie, Jamie Williamson, Lebo Moremi, Ilani Klopper.     Full results, log and semi-final fixtures HERE .

With the playoffs looming, round 6 of Varsity Netball 2025 at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg delivered a handful of tightly contested matches. NWU battled past Wits in front of their home crowd while UJ nearly got upstaged by UP-Tuks. Defending champions UFS Kovsies eased past Madibaz and Maties proved too much for Varsity College.   WITS 49 – 59 NWU   NWU managed to hold of Wits in a fiercely contested match and stay on track for a place in the semi-finals of this year’s competition.   The first quarter delivered intense play, with both teams going neck and neck from the start. The Eagles had to work hard against a relentless Wits defence with the Johannesburg based team not giving an inch. At the first break in play, the visitors were leading 12-14.   The second quarter saw more of the same with Wits begin cheered on by a boisterous home crowd. They fought hard to edge closer to their opponents and to close the gap on the scoreboard. NWU however managed to hang on for a 24-27 lead at halftime.   Wits used the Suzuki powerplay in the next 15 minutes to great effect in their efforts to snatch the lead from NWU. Brilliant play by the Eagles snuffed these chances and when the whistle went, the scoreboard read 41-43 for the visitors.   In the final 15 minutes, which was a bumpy affair, NWU put the foot down and denied Wits scoring opportunities at critical times. They starting stretching their lead to eventually secure an important 49-59 victory.   Quarter scores:  12-14 | 24-27 | 41-43 | 49-59 Player of the match:  Christi-Mari Coetzee (NWU)   Wits : Alix Horn, Amber Marshall, Amy Horn, Mikhe van der Watt, Nomhle Hope Sibiya, Oratile Mokone, Philasande Ntuli, Shani Mokken, Zanele Soviya, Phozisa Ramncwana.   NWU:  Sunel Smit, Jaime Matfield, Andrya Joubert, Jessica Matjiu,  Johanné Meyer, Amori Matthee, Christi-Mari Coetzee, Vivian Venancio, Jade Egwatu, Liane van Lochem, Casey Davids, Johanne Meyer.   UJ 45 – 38 UP-TUKS   UJ clinched a hard-fought victory over UP-Tuks to maintain their number one position on the log and take one step closer to that elusive first Varsity Netball title.   In a closely contested match, the Orange Army managed to stay one step ahead in the first quarter. Despite Tuks’ attempts to remain on attack at all times, UJ gained the upper hand, with the first 15 minutes ending 12-7 in their favour.   The Pretoria team came out strong in the second quarter, displaying a hight tempo and a fighting spirit. They tightly defended and scored goals in quick succession to narrow the gap. UJ on the other hand swiftly rectified mistakes and intercepted key balls in the mid-court. Tuks managed to close the gap to just a three-point lead for the log leaders, 20-17.   In the third quarter, the Orange Army was stunned by the brilliant interceptions of their opponents. It disrupted their momentum and somewhat limited their scoring opportunities. Despite Tuks scoring two vital goals in the Suzuki powerplay, UJ closed out the quarter in the lead, 33-27.   Tuks came out all guns blazing in the last 15 minutes with two successive goals in an attempt to deliver a shock result. Stubborn UJ however refused to back down and fought hard to maintain their lead and ultimately seal the 45-38 win.   Quarter scores:  12-7 | 20-17 | 33-27 | 45-38 Player of the match:  Jamie Williamson (UP-Tuks)   UJ:  Alexandra Meimaris, Juanika Steinmann, Kubura Abubakar, Minette Erasmus, Luyanda Msomi, Yanke Broodryk, Kamogelo Motsepe, Cornelia Mupenda, Sli Ngcobo, Tassnique Norman, Jade Niemand, Kaneilwe Seopa.   UP-Tuks:  Georgia de Jongh, Megan Holland, Juané Kruger, Devoné Lansberg, Thando Ngcobo, Caroline Paul, Anja van den Heever, Venece van Vollenhoven, Marichelle Visagie, Jamie Williamson, Lebo Moremme, Ilani Klopper.   UFS KOVSIES 69 – 55 MADIBAZ   UFS Kovsies overcame a haltering start to claim a commanding victory over Madibaz, setting their sights on a successful title defence.   The match began with high intensity with both teams displaying determination and a strong intent to win. Madibaz, who at the beginning of the season scored an upset win over former champions NWU, established a three-goal lead in the opening five minutes. Kovsies then turned the tables and went to the first break 16-11 ahead.   Coming back to battle for the second quarter, Madibaz once again attempted to find their rhythm. The defending champions’ aggressive defence and sharp interceptions however proved too much as they snatched up loose balls from their opponents. They stretched their lead to 38-21 at the halftime break.   In the third quarter the Eastern Cape side continued to play catch-up as Kovsies didn't give them any pace. The champions kept on dominating, gaining possession in the attacking phases and the scoreboard told the story at the end of the period of play, 53-36.     The last 15 minutes of the match showed a determined Madibaz, intent on narrowing the gap. Kovsies however snuffed any chances of another upset and made sure of a comprehensive 69-55 victory.   Quarter scores:  16-11 | 38-21 | 53-36 | 69-55 Player of the match:  Reratilwe Letsoalo (UFS Kovsies)   UFS Kovsies:  Liame de Lange, Reratilwe Letsoalo, Elene Vosloo, Xandri Fourie, Charne van Vuuren, Chanique Eyberg, Mari du Raan, Thando Mokoena, Leane Otto, Megan Erasmus, Syamthandanda Sambo, Mienke Delport.   Madibaz:  Anke Britz, Kaylin Coetzer, Hanniska van Vuuren, Simone Louw, Keagile Magadla, Luyanda Tsotetsi, Mbali Gunyazile, Edon Snyman, Kelly du Toit, Inge van Eyk, Bronwyn Goosen, Sibongokuhle Mnqayi.   MATIES 61 – 28 VARSITY COLLEGE   After just having their noses in front in the first half of the match, Maties eventually hammered newcomers Varsity College in the last match of round 6.   The Maroon Machine had to be content with a determined Varsity College in the first 15 minutes. The newcomers threw everything at their opponents and went into the break only three-goals behind their more fancied opponents, 14-11.   In the second quarter Varsity College continued to exploit the open spaces in midcourt in their efforts to level the score. They stayed focused and composed but Maties increased their offensive intensity and led 22-19 at halftime.   The Maroon Machine threw down the gauntlet in the third quarter with high pressure and fantastic interceptions. It was a tough time for Varsity College and the gap on the scoreboard grew to 44-26.   The strong defensive strategy of Maties proved to be decisive in the last 15 minutes, securing them a significant 61-28 victory.   Quarter scores:  14-11 | 22-19 | 44-24 | 61-28 Player of the match:  Thabisa Yekani (Maties)   Maties:  Hannah Kriel, Michelle van der Merwe, Lara Ehlers, Lize Rossouw, Syntiche Kabuya, Juane Maass, Thabisa Yekani, Bianca Odendaal, Chloe Parsadh, Kristine McGregor, Lara Steenkamp, Anke Stoffberg.   Varsity College:  Adri Kannemeyer, Robyn Hathaway, Andrea Van der Merwe, Casey Weber, Sara Feintuch, Olukemi Amarachi Akuma Agbai, Elzaan Smith, Allison Nola Beck, Sikanyiso Mtshwepe, Stacey-Lee Feris, Caitlin Rose Cunningham, Isabella De Vincenzo.   Full results, log and fixtures HERE .

Sitting just outside the play-off positions on the log for Varsity Netball 2025, Wits has everything to play for in the last bumper weekend at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg on Sunday 14 and Monday 15 September.   Captain Philasande Ntuli, has made a significant impact this season, using her experience as a national U21 player. It will prove pivotal once again against NWU and UP-Tuks in front of their home crowd if they want to make the semi-finals.   "Representing Wits in blue and gold is such a huge honor and privilege. It is such a great feeling to step on court and know that all the students of this prestigious institution put full trust in my abilities, as well as my teammates," Ntuli said.   She added they knew it wouldn’t be easy with Giada Prinsloo, Luane Smith and Ametisse Bandu who have since left the squad to represent South Africa at the upcoming Netball World Youth Cup 2025 in Gibraltar (19-28 September).   "We knew from day one that we’d lose Bandu, Smith and Prinsloo. We worked together. We know that we have to fight for each other.”   The 20-year-old Ntuli's affinity for sports was nurtured by her sport-loving parents. She started playing netball at the tender age of seven. She admits balancing Varsity Netball with her Bachelor of Social Work studies has its challenges.   "Participating in Varsity Netball has taught me to balance and manage school and sports.”   Looking ahead, Ntuli hopes (for Wits) to make the top four and she also remains ambitious about making history in the national team.   "My goals are to continue pouring into this team as much as they do for me, to be the leader that the team needs each and every day and to make the top four and fight it out.   “My biggest dream is to continue making history in blue and gold and to continue leading Wits to greater successes. And ultimately to represent the country one day."   by Andisiwe Sigoxo   Full fixtures HERE