The second week of the Varsity Netball tournament has held continued losses for UCT, but not without improvement or effort.
On Saturday the Cape Town side took on Kovsies, losing out 17-71; on Sunday they came up against NWU-Pukke, going down 31-66, and on Monday they gave UJ a run for their money, when they were eventually beaten 40-62.
As can be seen the team are slowly improving as the tournament goes on, and are using each game as a lesson from which to learn and grow.
UCT captain Fortuna Bagula was on hand to speak about their performances over the weekend. Referring to the drastic improvements made in the UJ game.
“I just think we were more focused and everyone just really wanted it. We spoke before the game and everyone knew it was in our reach; we knew it was possible, so we really tried harder,” she said.
The concerted effort paid off as UJ were left scrambling in the third quarter of the game with a half-time lead of 27-23 for the Johannesburg-side. While the UCT women were undoubtedly brave, they were unable to keep the momentum and UJ turned for home in the final quarter.
Speaking about the disadvantages of playing away from home, the captain said that it has been tough.
“The lack of supporters kind of sucks, but we’re there for each other. We have a few people there which helps a bit.
“But other than that it’s amazing being able to travel and play in other places – so we’re really grateful for that,” she said.
In last year’s Varsity Netball tournament, UCT were unable to garner a win – but walked away from it with their heads held high and thoroughly enriched. This year, Bagula can already note a difference in the side.
“I think the tournament’s been better compared to last year. We lost last year, but if you look at the score differences between last year and this year I think we are doing better. The way we’re playing seems to have improved,” she said.
The UCT women have a new coach in this year’s tournament – Theo Moletsane – who was actually part of the coaching committee in 2013. Since Moletsane has taken the reigns, the team have seen bit changes to their structure of play.
“It’s been great. From last year he’s been able to see our problem areas, and we’ve been trying to work on that which has been fantastic. And besides that he’s taught us quite a few tactics that we’re applying right now,” said Bagula.
Next week, UCT return to the Cape to take on familiar foes Maties, a game which will take place on Monday, September 29 in Stellenbosch.
By Megan Kinnaird
