Eagles Fly into Varsity Netball Final with Statement Semi-Final Win

Karen Scheepers
Sep 23
3 min read

The NWU Eagles secured their place in the 2025 Varsity Netball final with a dominant 55–28 victory over UJ in front of a packed Great Hall in Mahikeng on Monday, September 22. The result not only underlined NWU’s title credentials but also gave the home fans a performance to savour as the Eagles advanced to their first final since 2019.

Eagles Take Command Early

From the opening whistle, NWU set the tone with suffocating defence and quick transitions. UJ, aiming for a third consecutive final appearance, struggled to break through the Eagles’ defensive wall and paid the price for unforced errors. NWU’s shooters were ruthless, capitalising on every opportunity to open up a commanding 14–6 lead by the end of the first quarter.

Extending the Lead with Precision

The second quarter showcased NWU’s efficiency and composure. UJ had spells of possession but could not convert them into meaningful pressure, as the Eagles closed down passing lanes and disrupted attacking flow. At the other end, NWU punished every turnover, stretching their advantage to 29–12 at halftime. The Orange Army were left searching for solutions as the Eagles tightened their grip on the match.

UJ Fight, But Eagles Stay Firm

Desperate to find a way back into the contest, UJ introduced fresh legs in the third quarter. For a brief period, the changes brought more energy and attacking intent, but NWU absorbed the pressure and responded in kind. With clinical passing and disciplined finishes, the Eagles maintained control and extended their cushion to 44–19 heading into the final quarter.

Finishing the Job in Style

The last 15 minutes were about maintaining composure and closing the game. NWU’s structured attack and relentless pressure ensured UJ had no chance of a late comeback. The Eagles adapted seamlessly to every tactical change and sealed the 55–28 win with confidence. For the home crowd, it was a celebration of dominance; for the players, it was a step closer to championship glory.

Key Match Details

Final Score: NWU 55 – 28 UJ
Quarter Scores: 14–6 | 29–12 | 44–19 | 55–28
Player of the Match: Christi-Mari Coetzee (NWU)
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, Johanne Meyer.
UJ Squad: Alexandra Meimaris, Juanika Steinmann, Minette Erasmus, Luyanda Msomi, Yanke Broodryk, Kamogelo Motsepe, Cornelia Mupenda, Sli Ngcobo, Tassnique Norman, Jade Niemand, Kaneilwe Seopa, Makayla Edgecomb.

Looking Ahead to the Final

The victory sets up a mouth-watering final between NWU and defending champions UFS Kovsies on Monday, September 29 at 19:00 in Bloemfontein. The two teams have a rich history, with their last meeting in a Varsity Netball final dating back to 2013 when Kovsies edged out the Eagles by four goals. NWU’s last title came in 2016, while Kovsies are chasing their sixth trophy.

This final promises to be a clash of styles, NWU’s relentless defensive intensity and sharp transitions against Kovsies’ fluid attacking rhythm and powerplay efficiency. Both sides boast standout players, with Christi-Mari Coetzee continuing to dominate for NWU and Rolene Streutker recently producing a career highlight in her final Varsity Netball campaign for Kovsies.

With both sets of supporters expected to fill the stands in Bloemfontein, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown. For NWU, the opportunity is clear: reclaim the crown and prove that the Eagles are truly soaring back to the summit of university netball.

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