VUT picked up their first win in this year’s Varsity Netball tournament when they beat UCT 46-40 in Pretoria on Sunday.
There was nothing to choose between the two teams throughout the game as they both worked hard for their points. However, VUT took full advantage of the two powerplays in the final quarter to put some breathing space between themselves and UCT.
UCT played some brilliant netball in the opening stages and had a good lead before VUT fought their way back. After the first ten minutes the Cape side were only a point in front at 7-6.
There was nothing between the two sides in the final five minutes of the quarter, however, VUT did manage to get the upper hand to lead 12-10 at the end of the first 15 minutes.
VUT looked much more comfortable with possession in the second quarter and after the first five minutes they increased their lead to 15-10.
UCT fought their way back to reduce the deficit to just one point with five minutes left in the quarter, with VUT’s accuracy in front of the goal starting to look shaky. By the time half-time came around the scores were level at 18-18.
After the first five minutes of the third quarter the score was 21-21 with both teams getting three goals. Both teams had the lead at various stages in the quarter, but no one was able to take the game by the scruff of the neck.
At the end of the third quarter the score was 28-27 in favour of VUT as they got the final score in that 15 minute period.
VUT opened the scoring in the fourth quarter, but UCT did not allow them to pull away from the – that was until a powerplay was called for. VUT scored twice during the powerplay to take a four-point lead with just ten minutes left to play.
With just five minutes left to play VUT called for the second powerplay and they took full advantage to take the game away from UCT by opening up a ten point lead. UCT did have a mini fight back, but VUT did enough in the end for the win.
FNB Player of the Match: Nokwanda Khumalo
Teams:
UCT: Attie Mafanya (GK), Simone Peters (GD), Yeubai Chamba (WD), Phumi Shandu (C), Paula Macnab (WA), Tara Munro (GA), Fortuna Bagula (GS)
Substitutes: Zanele Nzima, Nokwazi Shezi, Kelly Firth, Achuma Fihla
VUT: Dorcas Marondera (GK), Nokwanda Khumalo (GA), Ziyanda Mahlangu (WA), Slondile Mlondo (C), Linky Mukhwantheu (WD), Jerminah Nteso (GD), Bukiwe Nukelo (GS)
Substitutes: Sibongile Mthwalo, Kekeletso Lekau, Sentle Ditebu, Thokozile Madoka, Ponky Mokhema.
