Despite suffering two harsh defeats in their first two Varsity Netball games, debutants UWC should not be written off as yet.
The gutsy women from the Cape, it seems, start all their games like a house on fire, but lose focus after the first break, allowing the competitors to build momentum and capitalise. And despite comeback attempts in the latter stages of the game, it is too late.
On Sunday, Coach Janine du Toit’s side had the hosts on their toes when the scoreboard changed from 6-6, to 7-6 and again 7-7 in the first 10 minutes of play. Although they lost 80-41, they fought back in the dying stages of the game and that must be commended. On the Monday, the same situation occurred. After leading log-leaders Madibaz 17-10 at the first break, the University of Western Cape students looked relaxed, but faded to a 33-23 deficit at half-time. Eventually they went down 51-43, and although the scoreboard doesn’t reflect the performance of UWC on the day, they outdid themselves.
On top of this, UWC’s Wilmedine Boer received the FNB Player of the Match award whilst teammate Jaumbuaije Zauana scooped up the Samsung Best Shot Award.
“We learnt from our mistakes, we will fix it and keep doing what we came here to do, and that is to play netball and keep going the extra mile,” said captain Desmorine Gawanas. She remains positive inspite of going down twice in two days.
“Yes it’s been challenging, but the breakthrough is coming, so we will keep pushing.”
Even though a loss is deemed demotivating, UWC seems more motivated than ever. Hungry to clinch their first victory, the ladies will be driven by their university’s motto: Respice, Prospice, which are Latin words meaning ‘look behind you, look ahead’.
With two losses behind them, a win against Kovsies in Bloemfontein on 4 September at the Callie Human Hall is something to look forward to.
The right plans are in place, and better execution is first on their priority list.
By Reginald Hufkie
