The North-West University booked their spot in the Varsity Netball 2021 after beating the NMU-Madibaz 70-41 in their last group game on Saturday 28 August. The Eagles will face UFS-Kovsies in Semi-Final 2 tomorrow (Sunday, 29 August) at 16:00.
Coach Elsunet du Plessis called for the Powerplay early in the first half. A dominant start from the Eagles saw them open a 21-7-point lead after the first quarter.
Couple of changes were made heading into the second quarter, giving the bench some game time, and making sure the go to starting line-up get some rest before for their semi-final encounter.
The Jessica Du Plessis and Daniele Malan combination in the circle worked well seeing them convert majority of their opportunities. Madibaz struggled to retain the ball and create scoring opportunities for themselves. Another combination that must be mentioned is the defence of the NWU side, excellent interceptions were made in the defensive half which made it really difficult for NMU to gather any momentum in the game.
The first half ended 39-15 in NWU favour. Third quarter was dominated by the team from Potchefstroom and another bonus point was snatched. Madibaz called their powerplay with 8 minutes left on the clock in the third quarter which was capitalized by the NWU scoring 6 points verses none from NMU.
The scoreboard kept on ticking over for the Eagles which resulted in a massive 55-27 lead, going into the last quarter.
All have five substitutions were given game time showing the depth that NWU have in their squad this year. A good pace on court and ball distribution was maintained throughout the game from the Eagles, they were just to good on the day for NMU.
Chelize Swart was named Player of the match after an outstanding game in the defensive circle. North- West University will want to take this momentum going into tomorrow’s game and make it all the way to the final.
