The University of Johannesburg earned their first win of season when they brushed aside VUT 57- 42 to gain maximum points in the final round of the 2017 Varsity Netball competition at the Imbizo Hall in Soweto, Johannesburg.
UJ opened the scoring within the first two minutes and seemed to control the game, winning valuable balls to secure possession while VUT fell behind by a mere point. The gap seemed to widen as the ten-minute mark approached, with UJ leading the game 4-2. UJ seemed to have found their rhythm as they had a strong seven-point lead going into the first power play of the game. UJ gained four points to make it 13, while VUT lost out an opportunity to gain some ground on their opponents failing to get any points. UJ held on to their strong lead as the first quarter concluded at 16-8.
VUT got their head in the game, fighting back to earn some points but UJ continued their dominance as the Vaal-based squad fell further down the hole, conceding 16 points heading into the half time break on 32-20. A deserved break seemed to do VUT well as they regained possession, slowly closing the gap between the two sides. UJ appeared to have taken their foot off the pedal but quickly resolved their issues to hit back and end the third quarter at 44-30.
As the fourth and final quarter kicked off, the second power play was announced. Both teams seemed to have squandered their opportunities as VUT only earned four points, while UJ earned two to make it 48-35. By the tenth minute, UJ earned their extra log point for getting to 50 points. VUT fought back and did well defensively to intercept passes and disturbing the flow of the UJ side, but despite all efforts, UJ managed to hold on to their lead and conclude the match at 57-42. UJ finish in seventh place with five points, while VUT remain at the bottom of the log with 0 points.
FNB Player of the Match: Ntokozo Ramaremisa (UJ)
Samsung Best Shot Award: Kim-Roche Holmes (UJ)
UJ Team: Jodie Brown, Ntokozo Ramaremisa, Halala Nxumalo (C), Fanisa Mpofu, Tanya Liecterkost, Erin van Wyk. Kim-Roche Holmes, Megan Van Lelveld, Lebogang Malahlela, Nompumelelo Mbonambi, Angelique Molefe, Nandi Buthelezi
VUT Team: Zanele Mokoena, Sphila Mdlolo, Lerato Moeko, Silondile Mlondo (C), Buhle Radebe, Thokozile Masoka, Fikile Makhuba, Tsakani Mthombeni, Palesa Mazibuko, Sakwadi Mathonsi
By Liziwe Mbha
