It was another bonus-point victory for the Maties as they kept themselves in the hunt for a place in the Varsity Netball semi-finals by beating VUT 75-29 at the Coetzenburg Indoor Centre, Stellenbosch.
Facing bottom team VUT meant it was never about the result, but rather the performance for coach Christine Behan and her management team. While the Maties had more freedom to express themselves, they also had to ensure that they sorted out any technical issues which they might have.
The hosts quickly led 10-1 and kept scoring at a brisk pace to lead 23-6 at the end of the first quarter. Maties called the power play in the second quarter and extended their lead to 42-19 at half time.
VUT rallied in the third quarter and slowed down the Maties attack while also scoring a few goals of their own. The score of 59-26 at the end of the quarter meant that the Maties had wrapped up the bonus-point and could give some vital exposure to their younger players.
Credit must be given to VUT who delivered a brave performance, but unfortunately the experience of the Maties proved to be an insurmountable obstacle for the ladies form the Vaal. The final score was 75-29 and it was good to see Maties have the depth required to be successful in the competition.
FNB Player of the Match: Nokwanda Khumalo (VUT)
Teams:
Maties: Jo Prins (Captain); Cari Swart; Somari Els; Sasha-Lee Petersen; Nelandré Mostert; Saskia Stander; Stephanie Brandt; Annerine Snyman; Abeline Olivier; Carla Werth; Megan Gossmann; Leanne Nigrini; Alison Malgas
VUT: Buhle Radebe, Jermina Nteso, Linky Mukhwanthleli (Vice-Captain), Slondile Mlondo, Fezeka Nsele, Sentle Ditedu, Nokwanda Khumalo (Captain), Ponkie Mokhema, Innocentia Tshamano, Lerato Moeko, Thokozile Masoka, Ichelle Mnisi
By Dorfling Terblanche
