Power, precision, and phenenomenal team spirit created the platform for NWU Pukke’s 50-37 win in the Varsity Netball final against Maties at the Coetzenburg Indoor Arena.

The ladies from Potchefstroom’s first half blitzkrieg set the platform for a convincing half century of points against a shellshocked Maties side.

Pukke took the final by the scruff of the neck and never let go of their grip in a match of epic proportions as they gave a netball lesson to the home team.

Maronel Scherman en Zandré Kruger were fantastic in defence and must be commended for their terrier-like display at the back – none given and none taken.

NWU Pukke were first on the scoreboard through Sigi Burger making it 2-0 after three minutes. From there on, they never relinquished the lead. Both teams started the match nervously giving away penalties.

Nelandré Mostert opened the scoring for Maties and was their best player in the match.
The ladies from Stellenbosch though looked in a massive rush as they played with pace but were inaccurate and gave possession away too easily.

The match staerted at an absolute frenetic pace with nerves getting the best of the players as accuracy was lacking from both sides. Pukke eventually found their feet and took a 5-1 lead.

This lead to Pukke taking the powerplay in the first quarter and this made all the difference as they took a 16-4 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Pukke started the second half a bit flustered but quickly got back their composure. Renske Stolz and Sigi Burger goal scoring partnership extended their advantage in the second quarter through some fantastic shooting.

Maties at least had the home crowd on their side but this did not seem to help as Pukke’s defence was breathtaking at times as they gave Maties no space at all.

Pukke continued their scoring ability as they kept on hitting the goals for a 37-22 lead at the start of the final quarter. Victory was now in sight for Dorette Badenhorst’s team.

Maties last chance was a powerplay call which they took with nine minutes to go. They were brilliant as they reduced the lead to 9 points. This was the last time that Maties could cheer as Pukke took control of the match.

When the final whistle sounded, hands were raised, fists were pumped and smiles resonated from the entire NWU Pukke team. It was a final performance to remember when everything worked out.

“Off court we are better friends than on court. I could not do it without my teammates,” said a delighted Renske Stoltz, who was named the player of the match.