The victory saw the Bloemfontein-based outfit complete an unbeaten campaign and secure their fifth TNL title, ending the Fireballs’ reign as defending champions. The final was a repeat of last year’s showpiece encounter, but this time the Crinums turned the tables to reclaim South African netball’s biggest prize.

With the Crinums unbeaten throughout the season and the Fireballs determined to retain their crown, the final lived up to expectations from the opening centre pass.

Refiloe Ntketsa. Photo: NSA

Both teams displayed exceptional discipline and precision in the first quarter, matching each other goal for goal. Defensive units on both sides made their presence felt, with crucial interceptions and turnovers preventing either team from gaining a significant advantage. By the end of the opening stanza, the scores were locked at 11-11.

The second quarter brought increased intensity as the physical battle heated up. While the Fireballs fought hard to maintain control, the Crinums capitalised on several key opportunities. 

Strong defensive work and accurate shooting allowed the Free State side to open a valuable lead. Bianca Lubbe’s composure in front of goal proved vital as the Crinums stretched their advantage heading into the halftime break.

The third quarter belonged to the Crinums’ defence. Relentless pressure forced the Fireballs into a series of uncharacteristic errors, disrupting their rhythm in attack. The Fireballs struggled to convert scoring opportunities as the Crinums tightened their grip on the contest.

With every turnover, the Bloemfontein side grew in confidence, steadily increasing their lead. Their defensive dominance limited the Fireballs’ scoring chances and created a sizeable cushion heading into the final quarter.

Karla Pretorius. Photo: NSA

Although Fireballs coach Elsje Jordaan introduced tactical changes in an effort to spark a comeback, the Crinums remained composed under pressure. The defending champions showed glimpses of improvement, but the Free State side refused to surrender their advantage.

When the final whistle sounded, the Crinums celebrated a memorable championship victory, capping off an extraordinary season without a single defeat in 14 matches.

Head coach Martha Mosoahle praised her players after the match, describing the performance as one of the finest displays in the team’s history. She credited the squad’s focus, discipline and leadership for their success throughout the tournament.

Bianca Lubbe, Refiloe Nketsa, Nonsikelelo Mazibuko, and Karla Pretorius. Photo: NSA

Earlier in the day, the promotion and relegation playoff provided another thrilling contest.

Fresh from winning the Division Two title, the Tornados faced the Kingdom Stars for a place in Division One. Despite a determined challenge from the Tornados, the Stars used their experience to maintain control during key moments of the match.

After leading for much of the encounter, the Kingdom Stars held their nerve in the closing stages to secure a hard-fought 42-38 victory and retain their Division One status for another season.

Best Shooter: Bianca Lubbe (Crinums)

Best Mid-court player: Refiloe Nketsa (Crinums)

Best Defender: Karla Pretorius (Crinums)

Player of the tournament: Nonsikelelo Mazibuko (Fireballs)

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg