Jags and Crinums off to winning starts
The Telkom Netball League officially commenced and the Jaguars and Crinums got their campaigns of to winning start.
Jaguars vs Flames
34 – 31
The 1st quarter saw a bit of a shaky start from team, the effects of not playing netball for 6 months really showed off on the court. The defending champions the Jaguars were able to see of the flames 34 – 31.
The Flames seemed to have poor communication, especially in the 2nd quarter resulting to the Jaguars benefiting from their mistakes. Even though the Flames defense was tight, they struggled getting the balls across to the shooters. The world cup experience from Elsunet du Plessis came in handy for the Flames as she dominated on the center third.
The Flames did get momentum in the 3rd quarter; however, the Jags were a bit hungrier for the win, the combination of Danielle Van Zyl and Chantelle Swart came out strong at shooting the Jaguars to victory.
Kingdom Stars vs Crinums
30 – 40
The Stars debuted in Division 1 led by the Proteas WD, Precious Mthembu. With home ground advantage, the Crinums definitely gave a harsh welcome to the Stars in the top division.
Stars were off to a great start putting pressure on TNL 2017 Champions.
Silly mistakes and poor passes across the court costed the Stars to slack on the scoreboard. The Crinums put on immense pressure on the Stars, their defense was led strongly by vice-captain Sikholiwe Mdletshe, while dominating the 2nd half.
The 3rd quarter kicked off with some great changes on the Stars team. The combination of Sue-Ann Botha and Alicia Puren at the shooting circle showed great improvement on the Stars play as they gave themselves chance of taking this one home.
An unexpected decision was made by the Stars coach, Bonisiwe Thabethe in the 4th quarter, when she changed the previous quarter’s team. One would’ve assumed she’ll keep the 3rd quarters team as is after a great performance and control of the 3rd quarters. The Crinums gained momentum and easily swept off to triumph.
