It was a rather one-sided affair as he University of Pretoria took on surprise package, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, in the second semi- final in Pretoria. UP-Tuks went on the attack from the first minute as they looked every bit the unbeaten side which has seen them do so well in this addition of Varsity Netball.
NMMU were by no means out of their depth as they earned a couple of high profile victories on the way to the semi-final. It was a 21-7 lead to Tuks in the first quarter as they got off to a flying start.
The second quarter saw the Pretoria ladies assert their dominance on visiting team as NMMU struggled to keep possession of the ball and the majority of play took place in the NMMU half. The University of Pretoria then took the opportunity to enforce the power play, of which the Madibaz were able to restrict them to two goals and even score one of their own. The teams went into half time with the score on 42-12. A few tactical changes made by both sides saw a much tighter contest in the beginning of the third quarter as Riana Buys converted a couple of early opportunities for the Madibaz.
It was tough going for the Eastern Cape team as it took them more than seven minutes to get a score in the final quarter. Jenny van Dyk rested some players as the younger players came on to add more misery to the visitors. A power play saw Tuks cruise past 80 points as NMMU were restricted to the lowest total conceived against UP-Tuks. Final score 87-22.
The team will now take on the defending champions NWU-Pukke in a highly anticipated final on the 17th of October.
FNB Player of the Match: Marlize de Bruin (Tuks)
Teams:
UP-Tuks: Melissa Kotze, Lenize Potgieter, Tshina Mdau, Izette Lubbe, Marlize de Bruin, Shadine van der Merwe (captain), Jasmine Ziegelmeier, Shongile Hlungwane, Ine-Mari Venter, Juzelri Garbers, Unelle Snyman, Chantelle Swart
NMMU: Hlumisa Sithonga, Melodine Jacobs, Eloise Webb, Arne Rust (captain), Nandipha Jack, Bianca Blom, Nelisindiso Twani, Hadrin Tenteni, Philene van Niekerk, Riana Buys, Sibubele Mandeka, Saneleise Mgijima
By Theriso Lethuloe
