Johannesburg, South Africa: The 2024 Telkom Netball League’s round-robin stages came to an exhilarating close on Sunday evening. Throughout the season of 3 intense power-weeks, fans were treated to a thrilling display of skill and determination.
While teams put in their best efforts in every game, they will now rely on the lessons learnt during the past two power weeks as the stakes are higher. Four standout teams from Divisions A and B have secured their spots in the semi-finals. All eyes are now eagerly fixed on the Ellis Park Arena, where the semi-final action will kick off today.
The first Division B semi-final match will see the Comets take on the Sunbirds. Zandile Njeza and her charges have been impressive this season recording 14 wins while suffering only one loss to the KD Stars (during the first Power Week), they recently won their match against the KZN team, levelling matters.
The Comets beat the Lillies 41-37, and the Limpopo side are the first team to go home. Nthabiseng Mothusi’s side bow out of this year’s tournament ending things off on a high. They however leave the competition having finished things off in 9th place, regardless of putting up a good fight and finishing off strong. The Lillies go back home with a single point.
The Sunbirds go into the semis as the underdogs against the Comets after losing to the debutants Tshukudu yesterday. Faith Motau’s team will need a solid plan to beat the Comets and progress further in the competition.
The second semi-final will be a battle between KD Stars and the Tornados. Coach Precious Mthembu is determined to lead the team back to the A division. Aphiwe Thusini has proven herself as the team’s key player in the shooting circle. The defensive duo of Mpanza and Ntshangase has shown unwavering determination and skill on the court.
The Western Cape team, coached by Adele Zeelie, performed well in their final match against the KD Queens. They have a strong squad of 12 players providing Zeelie with many options for substitutions. This team aims to be a strong contender in the second division.
Get ready for thrilling Division A semi-final clashes! Watch as the Jaguars face off against the Stings and the Fireballs battle it out with the Crinums.
All matches must have a conclusive result starting today (Monday, 17th June). In the event of a draw, extra time will be played.
Full Day Results:
Sunbirds 34-55 Tshukudu
Comets 41-37 Lillies
KD Stars 47-33 Diamonds
KD Queens 40-55 Tornados
Baobabs 53-62 Aloes
Monday (17 June) Fixtures:
10:00|Division B – PLAYOFF POSITION 7/8|Queens vs Diamonds
12:00|Division B – SEMI-FINAL 1|Comets vs Sunbirds
14:00|Division B – SEMI-FINAL 2|KD Stars vs Tornados
16:00|Division A – SEMI-FINAL 1|Jaguars vs Stings
18:00|Division A – SEMI-FINAL 2|Fireballs vs Crinums