There are mixed emotions amongst the UJ camp, but they remain hopeful and determined to continue improving in the Varsity Netball tournament.
After the first bumper weekend of action packed netball, UJ finds themselves at the number 5 position on the log after being defeated by NWU-Pukke and Kovsies.
They did, however, manage to claim a 62-40 victory over UCT.
UJ, hav been praised for an improved performance but need to start and finish each game strong. Dr Charlotte Scholtz, UJ Netball club manager, said that she feels like the team can do better.
“We are experiencing mental barriers, not physical ones. We need to tie the two, and mentally focus on one ball at a time as opposed to looking at the bigger picture which can be intimidating,” she said.
UJ centre, Ilze Jones, who was named the FNB Player of the Match against UCT said that a lot of credit needs to go to her team mates, as she struggled with an injury during the match, but the team had her back the entire 60 minutes.
“As a team we had high expectations and goals, therefore we are very disappointed. We will however work hard for our next encounter. We are a committed team and always strive for greatness.
“It was a big honour to get the recognition, but ever everyone played hard,” she said.
UJ, who went back to the drawing board after two consecutive defeats, learned from their mistakes and played a more basic game against UCT, which secured their bonus point.
UJ faces Tuks in their next encounter and are aware that they will need to work harder than ever before to improve their current log standing.
Scholtz says she is looking to give the younger players some game time in order for them to gain some experience.
By Nqobile Gama
