NWU Eagles and UP-Tuks have developed one of Varsity Netball’s most intriguing rivalries, with their biggest meetings repeatedly decided by the smallest of margins.
The history between these two sides includes championship moments. NWU-Pukke edged Tuks 56–55 in the 2016 final, before Tuks responded the following year with a 43–41 victory over NWU. More recently, NWU claimed another one-goal win over Tuks in 2024, beating the then-defending champions 62–61.
Defending champions NWU Eagles held their nerve to beat UP-Tuks 60–59 in Round 2 of the 2026 Varsity Netball tournament. The Eagles led 17–15 after the opening quarter before the teams went into half-time level at 31–31. NWU created some breathing room in the third quarter, leading 47–40, but Tuks fought back strongly in the final 15 minutes. NWU ultimately survived the late pressure to claim another one-goal victory.
The result gives NWU another early statement in their title defence after winning the 2025 championship, while Tuks will be looking to turn their competitive performances into a return to the upper end of the competition. NWU’s challenge is to defend their crown; Tuks’ is to remind the tournament of their championship pedigree.
With yesterday’s 60–59 result now added to their history, one thing remains clear: when NWU and Tuks meet, there is rarely much between them.
Players to Watch: Andrya Joubert vs Phophi Nematangari
Yesterday, NWU’s Andrya Joubert was named Player of the Match after playing a key role in the Eagles’ victory. On the Tuks side, Phophi Nematangari is one of the players to watch in the 2026 squad.
If these two players continue to make their mark as the tournament progresses, their individual battles could become another storyline to watch within this already closely contested rivalry.
Writer: Keitumetse Makhubela
Comments
Post a Comment