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UJ and UP-Tuks Set for Unbeaten Varsity Netball Showdown

An intriguing battle between an unbeaten side and a team determined to reclaim its place among the Varsity Netball elite awaits this weekend when the University of Johannesburg (UJ) takes on UP-Tuks on 13 September.

© VarsityNetball

UJ, the only unbeaten team in the 2026 Varsity Netball campaign, heads into the clash at the top of the standings with 20 points from five victories. However, they face a UP-Tuks side that has been in ruthless scoring form, netting an impressive 128 goals across their last two matches.


With both teams carrying significant pedigree, something will have to give.


The UJ Orange Army, coached by former Proteas captain Bongiwe Msomi, are chasing a first-ever Varsity Netball title after six years of competing in the tournament.


UJ's confidence will be further boosted by their recent success against UP-Tuks. The two sides met in the USSA final in July, where UJ claimed a convincing 50-39 victory at CUT in Bloemfontein to retain their title and become back-to-back USSA champions.


Speaking after their USSA triumph, Msomi said her side entered the tournament with the belief that they could successfully defend their crown.


“We went believing we will defend our titles,” said Msomi.


However, history gives UP-Tuks plenty of reason to believe they can upset the log leaders.


The Tuks Stripe Generation are three-time Varsity Netball champions, having lifted the title in 2017, 2019 and 2023. Their three finals victories all came at Rembrandt Hall, including a memorable 63-61 triumph over UJ in the 2023 final.


The 2023 final remains a particularly significant chapter in the rivalry, with UJ returning to the same venue where they suffered a narrow two-goal defeat three years ago.


UP-Tuks will also be eager to respond after narrowly missing out against defending champions NWU Eagles earlier in the 2026 campaign. Tuks suffered a heartbreaking 60-59 defeat, going down by just one goal in what was regarded as one of the standout matches of the tournament so far.


With UJ's unbeaten record, UP-Tuks' championship pedigree and the history between the two sides all adding to the occasion, Sunday's encounter promises to be one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Varsity Netball season.


For UJ, victory would strengthen their position at the summit and move them another step closer to a maiden Varsity Netball title. For UP-Tuks, it is an opportunity to remind the competition why they remain one of the tournament's most successful teams.

Writer: Mpho Tsolele

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