With only two games remaining in the Varsity Netball round-robin stage, the North-West University (NWU) faces a crucial period in their campaign as they fight to secure a place in the semi-finals. Despite a challenging weekend, where NWU suffered a 64-39 loss against the University of Johannesburg (UJ), the team remains focused on their goal.
Coach Elsunet du Plessis emphasises that their semi-final hopes are still alive and that they are working hard to improve and perform under pressure.
“The team has been working very hard over the past few weeks. Although we did not perform as we would have liked to over the weekend, it's not over yet. We will stick to our plan and make minor adjustments.”
The NWU’s next game is against Wits University, a team known for its resilience. Wits have put up tough battles throughout the tournament, and the NWU understands the importance of securing a win in this match to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
“We need to focus on our own game and make sure we stick to what works best for us,” explains coach Elsunet. “Applying a lot of pressure on defence and playing with composure when we are on attack will be key to countering Wits’ strengths.”
The final game of the round-robin stage will be against the Stellenbosch University, who are currently positioned just one spot above the NWU. This match could be decisive in determining the NWU’s fate, making it a must-win for the team. To prepare for such a crucial game, the coaching staff is prioritising mental preparation alongside tactical refinement.
“The team will be doing video analysis on our own game as well as the teams we are facing in the last bumper weekend. We have clear goals, and we just need to execute them to the best of our ability,” adds coach Elsunet.
With determination and a clear plan, the NWU is looking to make the necessary adjustments and push for a strong finish in the final two games, keeping their hopes of a semi-final spot alive.
The NWU team, who is currently in fifth position on the Varsity Netball log, will lock horns with Wits University on 22 September, and on 23 September they will take on Stellenbosch University.
