Eagles Edge Past Wits to Keep Semi-Final Hopes Alive
- Karen Scheepers
- Sep 15
- 2 min read
The NWU Eagles showcased resilience and composure in a fiercely contested Varsity Netball encounter, defeating Wits 59–49 at the Wits Multi-Purpose Sports Hall on Sunday, September 14, 2025. The victory keeps NWU firmly in contention for a semi-final spot, while Wits earned admiration for their spirited performance in front of a home crowd that never stopped cheering.
Tight Opening Exchanges
The first quarter set the tone for a tense battle. Both teams went goal for goal, with Wits’ defensive pairing putting the Eagles under pressure. NWU, however, showed their ability to absorb the heat and edged ahead 14–12 at the first break, thanks to clinical finishing in the circle.
Wits Push Back
The second quarter belonged to the hosts’ energy and crowd support. With the stands buzzing, Wits matched NWU stride for stride, creating turnovers and converting under pressure. Despite their efforts, the Eagles held on to a narrow 27–24 lead at halftime, but the game remained on a knife edge.
Powerplay Drama
The third quarter saw Wits call on their Suzuki powerplay to try and turn the tide. The Johannesburg side threatened to swing the momentum, but NWU responded with sharp attacking phases and defensive interventions that denied Wits crucial chances. By the end of the period, the Eagles clung to a slender 43–41 advantage, setting up a dramatic final quarter.
Eagles Finish Strong
When it mattered most, the Eagles rose to the challenge. The last 15 minutes saw them shut down Wits’ attacking lanes, forcing turnovers and building a decisive lead. Shooter Christi-Mari Coetzee, who earned her third FNB Player of the Match award, was outstanding once again, guiding NWU to a 59–49 win that widened the gap in the closing stages.
Key Details from the Clash
Final Score: Wits 49 – 59 NWU
Quarter Scores: 12–14 | 24–27 | 41–43 | 49–59
Player of the Match: Christi-Mari Coetzee (NWU)
Wits Squad: Alix Horn, Amber Marshall, Amy Horn, Mikhe van der Watt, Nomhle Hope Sibiya, Oratile Mokone, Philasande Ntuli, Shani Mokken, Zanele Soviya, Phozisa Ramncwana.
NWU Squad: Sunel Smit, Jaime Matfield, Andrya Joubert, Jessica Matjiu, Johanné Meyer, Amori Matthee, Christi-Mari Coetzee, Vivian Venancio, Jade Egwatu, Liane van Lochem, Casey Davids.
Upcoming Fixture for NWU Netball
📅 Monday, September 15 – 17:00
⚡ UJ Netball vs NWU Netball
🏟️ Venue: Wits Multi-Purpose Sports Hall
📺 Broadcast: SuperSport
The Road Forward
With this vital win, NWU strengthen their push for a semi-final berth. Their next test against log-leaders UJ promises to be one of the defining matches of the season. A victory there would not only boost their standings but also send a clear message that the Eagles are ready to challenge the very best.
🦅💜🏐🔥🎯👏
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