‘No crisis at SAFA’

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Picture: The SAFA president, Dr Danny Jordaan

By OBAKENG MAJE

6 May 2025 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) said it has noted a malicious and coordinated campaign to damage the reputations of the association, the president and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). SAFA alleges that these individuals have targeted SAFA president, Dr Danny Jordaan and CEO, Lydia Monyepao, with attacks that have been launched through certain media outlets and social media in an attempt to change the regime at SAFA.

Jordaan said at the heart of the campaign is a misinformation operation that is intended to create the impression that there is chaos and destruction at SAFA. He further said the campaign has escalated in recent weeks with some even going as far as posting a series of untruths on their own personal social media accounts, attempting to create the impression that he and Monyepao do not consult when making decisions.

“Nothing could be further from the truth. We consult on a regular basis with his vice-presidents and this is normal. Even SASCOC convenes a President’s Forum, and while it’s not a constitutional structure, it is used as a sound board. SAFA’s accountability is clearly set out in its statutes and is not determined on a whim.

“SAFA’s appearance before the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture is being deliberately misportrayed as an anomaly when it isn’t. The reality is the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture is conducting their oversight role into Federations, which is their constitutional responsibility,” he said.

Jordaan added that this is not the first rodeo for SAFA and the association has never refused these obligations. He said SAFA as a law-abiding organisation, will avail themselves so that the Portfolio Committee can exercise their obligations.

“Since 1991, SAFA has submitted unqualified audit reports, which were tabled before the association’s highest decision-making body, the congress and they were then approved.

“We must state clearly that there has never been a year where we did not table an audited financial report. They were endorsed and approved by every member that was present. SAFA is among very few national federations in this country that have submitted audited financial statements for every year of operation without fail,” said Jordaan. 

He said on the question of theft, they issued a statement on 8 March 2024, and said there is no money missing at SAFA. Let us reiterate, there is no money missing from SAFA. Jordaan said it is important to note that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) dropped three out of the seven charges laid against him and there is a delay in their submission for all charges to be dropped.

“The insinuation that there should be mass resignations because of charges being brought against me is malicious and feeds an agenda of instability, something our performing teams cannot afford.

“Propaganda like this is designed to paint a picture of total chaos, however all our teams are performing well and are attending all scheduled matches,” he said.

Jordaan said in addition, the association is about to table a proposal to clubs on how best to settle outstanding debts. He said this is an ongoing process.

“SAFA, like any other organisation, does experience cash flow problems and utilises our available funds to ensure that our national teams participate in various international competitions. The development pipeline demands regular competitions, and this has recently prevented us from holding executive meetings.

“However, tasks delegated are taken care of by the office and sub committees. SAFA as an organisation is still functional and is not paralysed by not having meetings. There is no crisis,” said Jordaan.

He said the highest decision-making body at SAFA is the congress and it consists of 207 persons, plus invited guests from FIFA, CAF and COSAFA, and an executive of 40. Jordaan said it must therefore be clear that logistically, a congress requires timeous planning and huge financial resources.

“It is for this reason that SAFA is sometimes forced to consider its obligations in terms of competitions, and its responsibility in terms of convening committee meetings in addition to the abovementioned structures.

“SAFA further has 17 committees that have a responsibility to report to the National Executive Committee. Allegations that Monyepao is bullying and treating female staff members in an unfair manner are cheap gossip unsupported by evidence,” he said.

Jordaan said the senior journalist from a Sunday newspaper, who authored this claim, sent questions to the CEO just after 14h00 on Saturday, an hour before Bafana Bafana faced Malawi in an away African Nations Championship Qualifier. He said SAFA also has a team representing the country in the U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, and yet the newspaper expected her to drop everything she was doing to respond to malicious gossip at short notice.

“By the time the CEO was able to attend to his questions, the journalist claimed that the newspaper had already gone to the printers. The CEO has been at the forefront of advocating for the advancement of women at the association and gender equality in football. 

“This well-qualified and competent person has been celebrated by both FIFA and CAF. In the FIFA Summit in Saudi Arabia, she was asked to address the Summit together with FIFA’s Chief Women’s Football Officer,” said Jordaan.

He said it is therefore surprising that certain individuals have decided to launch an unprovoked attack on her integrity and capacity. Jordaan said this is regrettable and a distasteful cheap shot.  

“SAFA as a federation has also demonstrated its commitment to the empowerment of women in governance, competitions and in the promotion of women in football.

“It is mind boggling that these attacks at SAFA come during a period of unprecedented success for the association. Bafana Bafana qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations to be held in Morocco in December 2025,” he said.

According to Jordaan, the team is also top of the log in the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He said the SA U20 Men’s National Team, Amajita, are currently in Egypt participating in the CAF U20 AFCON.

“The SA U17 Men’s National Team, Amajimbos, recently qualified for the FIFA U17 World Cup to be held in Qatar. Banyana Banyana will continue their preparations later this month to defend their African title at the Women’s AFCON in July in Morocco,” said Jordaan.

He said the schools U15 Girls team are COSAFA champions and recently participated in the CAF African Schools Football Championship in Ghana, where they won the bronze medal. Jordaan said the U15 Boys team are also COSAFA champions and also participated in the CAF African Schools Football Championship.

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Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong urges public to be cautious after unusual rainfall

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Picture: The Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong

By REGINALD KANYANE

5 May 2025- The Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong said the province has experienced unusually high rainfall this season, which is a stark reminder of the growing impact of climate change and the increased frequency of extreme weather events like thunderstorms and flash floods. Makatong said the Namakwa District, particularly the Kamiesberg Municipality, has been severely affected.

She further said key access roads in areas such as Kamasies (DR2951), Rooifontein (DR2951), Nourivier/Platbakkies (DR2944), Roodekloof (DR2944), and Rooiwal (OG110), have sustained significant damage. Makatong added that the bridge leading to Kamasies has been completely washed away, while blocked culverts are making access extremely difficult.

“Urgent intervention is required. The department is concerned about the community of Kamasies, which is currently isolated and unable to access essential services or reach the economic hub of Springbok.

“In response, we are constructing a bypass route from Kamasies to Rooifontein, adjacent to the original road. The public will be notified as soon as this route is safe for use. To address this unfolding situation, we have convened an emergency meeting with the Namakwa District Municipality, Kamiesberg Local Municipality, Disaster Management teams, and the Namakwa Roads Forum,” she said.

Makatong said the outcome was a firm commitment to collaborative action. She said immediate interventions include blading, spot re-gravelling and stabilisation of low-water crossings using culverts, cement slabs and gabions.

“We are working closely with the district to compile a comprehensive damage report in support of declaring a disaster area. This declaration is vital to unlock the resources needed to expedite repairs and recovery.

“A specialised team of engineers and technicians has been deployed to conduct thorough damage assessments. Despite muddy and waterlogged conditions, teams are working tirelessly, transporting materials, blading roads and constructing temporary detours,” said Makatong.

She said some progress has been reversed due to continued rain, but recovery efforts are ongoing. Makatong said their engineers will continue their assessments in the coming days.

“This work is essential to determining the scale of funding and technical support required. We are focused on finalising the disaster declaration report to unlock national and provincial aid.

“Looking to the future, the department is committed to building back better. This is not just about restoration, it’s about resilience. We will invest in sustainable, climate-smart infrastructure that can better withstand future shocks,” she said.

Makatong also extended her appreciation to the people of Namakwa for their patience, resilience, and cooperation. She said her department urges community members to assist by reporting dangerous road conditions, including photos and GPS locations, via the Roads WhatsApp Line at 066 581 5626.

“Residents are also encouraged to remain cautious around heavy machinery and to stay updated through local radio stations and the official Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works Facebook page.

“This is a shared effort, together; we will rebuild, recover, and emerge stronger. In the Nama Khoi Municipal area, roads such as Droedap Road (DR2951), Wildeperdehoek Pass (DR2952), Concordia/Goodhouse Road (DR2958) and Goodhouse/Witbank Road (DR3251), also suffered extensive damage,” said Makatong.

She said in the Hantam Municipal area near Calvinia, affected roads include, Losperplaas Road (DR2948), Brandvlei/Katkop Road (DR2976), Granaatboskolk Road (DR2972) and Bonekraal Road (DR2275).

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Baagi ba kwa Shaleng ba ikagela tsela morago ga gore puso e ba latolele fa e sena madi

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Setshwantsho: Baagi ba Shaleng ba ikagela tsela

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

5 Motsheganong 2025- Baagi ba kwa motseng wa Shaleng gaufi le Taung, ba mina ka nko ele nosi morago ga gore Lefapha la Dithoto tsa Setshaba ga mmogo le Ditsela mo Bokone Bophirima, le ba latolele fa le sena madi a go ka ba agela tsela ya sekontere.

Baagi ba ile ba tsaya tshwetso ya go ka ikagele tsela eo ka tiriso ya matlapa ga mmogo le mmu. Fela baagi ba, ba re ba kopana le mathata gonne ga ba na ledi le le lekaneng.

Mongwe wa baeteledipele wa baagi, Sinah Gaoagwe are, go lobaka tsela eo e sa tsamaege, fela seemo se ile sa etegela morago ga dipula tse di neleng. Gaoagwe are tsela e, ke yone e e gaufi go ka ba golaganya le tsela ya sekontere e tswang kwa motseng wa Kgomotso le Seoding.

“Jaanong, re ile ra bona fa go le botlhokwa gore re leke go ipaakanyetsa tsela eo. Re na le lobaka le le telele re ikuela go puso go ka baakanya tsela, mme kgale e tshelwa mmu fela e be be gogorupiwa.

“Fela, lefapha kgale le re tshepisa gore le tlile go re agela tsela ya sekontere ngwaga le ngwaga. Se se re makatsang ke gore ga go tle gore tsela e, e agiwe. Go fitlha ga jaana, tsela eo ga e dirisiwe, gonne dijanaga di tshwarwa ke seretse,” Gaogawe wa tlhalosa.

Gaogawe are jaanong seo se pateletsa bakgweetsi go dirisa tsela ya kwa Rietfontein, mme e kgakajana. Are le fa moagi a emetse ambulance, e feleletsa e tsene thari, mme seo se dire gore baagi ba se bone thuso ka bonako.

“Re kopana le matsapa jaaka baagi fa re baakanya tsela eo, gonne khumanego e tsentse letsogo. Ga jaana, re thota matlapa a re thusang go baakanya tsela eo, gape baagi ba ba baakanyang tsela eo, ba tshwanelwa ke gore ba rekelwe dijo.

“Baagi ba ne ba kopilwe go ntsha madi mangwe le mangwe a ba tla a kgonang ele go ka leka go rekela dipalangwa tse di dirisiwang go thota matlapa lokwane,” Gaogawe wa tlhalosa.  

Kgabagare, sebueledi sa nakwana sa Lefapha La Dithoto Tsa Setshaba ga mmogo le Ditsela, Mmakgori Tong are: “Ke nnete lefapha la itse ka tsereganyo e e diriwang ke baagi go ka ipaakanyetsa tsela. Baagi ba lobaka ba kopa gore ba agelwe tsela ya sekontere.

“Fela go fitlha ga jaana, jaaka lefapha, kgale re tshela tsela eo mmu le go e gogorupa dingwaga tse tsotlhe. Re tlile go tswelela go dira jalo, mme re thusana le baagi go ka leka go baya tsela eo mo seemong se se tsamaegang go tloga gompieno.”

Tong are ka maswabi ga gona tekanyetso-kabo ya go ka aga tsela eo go e dira ya sekontere. Tong are lefapha le tla itirela tiro yotlhe ya go tshela mmu mo tseleng eo, le go e gogorupa ntle le go dirisa mokgwa wa thendara.  

“Ka maswabi, ga gona dithulaganyo dipe tsa go ka aga tsela eo go e dira ya sekontere go fitlha ga jaana, mme mokhuduthamaga wa lefapha, Elizabeth Mokua, o ile a tsenela kopano le kemedi ya baagi ka kgwedi ya Ferikgong 2025, kwa dikantorong tsa masepala o mogolwane wa Taung mabapi le tsela e,” Tong wa tlhalosa.     

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Three men nabbed for allegedly stealing vehicles

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Picture: A vehicle reported stolen seized by the police/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

5 May 2025- The swift response of the Colesberg Highway Patrol led to the interception of a stolen Mercedes-Benz and the arrest of three men on 3 May 2025, at approximately 3:45pm. The vehicle, reportedly stolen during a house robbery in Table View, Cape Town, was traced with the assistance of surveillance technology provided by SA Polygraph and Investigation Services (SAPAS).

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the vehicle was identified travelling near the Three Sisters area. Kock said the Highway Patrol members executed a tactical stop on both the Mercedes-Benz and an accompanying Audi.

“During the stop and search, three suspects were arrested and law enforcement officers recovered several items, including laptops, cell phones and other valuables.

“Both vehicles were seized and the suspects aged between 24 and 36, were charged with possession of suspected stolen vehicles and property. They are expected to appear in court soon,” he said.

Kock further said the SAPS management commends the Colesberg Highway Patrol team, SAPAS and all involved stakeholders for their effective collaboration, exemplifying the success of integrated policing efforts. He added that the SAPS urges members of the public to report criminal activity by contacting Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or using the MySAPS app.

“All information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality. Investigations are ongoing,” said Kock.

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Operation Shanela continues to produce positive results

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Picture: The police during Operation Shanela/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

5 May 2025- Operation Shanela, the weekly multi-disciplinary high-density crime prevention initiative, ran from 28 April until 4 May 2025. The operation remains steadfast in its objective to reduce contact and violent crimes in identified hotspots across the Northern Cape, delivering significant results, including the arrest of over 185 individuals.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel, Sergio Kock said law enforcement activities during this period included vehicle checkpoints (VCPs), stop-and-search operations, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections, and interventions aimed at curbing drug trafficking and other forms of smuggling. Kock said throughout the province, numerous VCPs and roadblocks were executed, resulting in the search of 3453 vehicles and 6382 individuals.

“Numerous compliance inspections were conducted at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recycling facilities, private security companies, firearm dealers, as well as formal and informal businesses and farms. 

“Several non-compliant liquor outlets were closed. The police actions led to the arrest of 185 suspects for an array of offences, including attempted murder, assault, burglary, illegal possession of firearms, malicious damage to property, illegal liquor trading, possession of dangerous weapons, drug dealing and possession, illicit mining, stock theft, and immigration-related violations involving undocumented individuals,” he said.

Kock further said significant quantities of alcohol, drugs, dangerous weapons, and cash—believed to be proceeds of crime—were confiscated during the operation. He added that detectives throughout the province conducted tracing operations to apprehend suspects evading justice.

“Awareness campaigns and community engagements are ongoing to educate and keep the community informed about crime trends and prevention strategies and precautions,” said Kock.

Meanwhile, the acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga, commended all participating law enforcement agencies and departments for their continued dedication and collaborative efforts in combating crime. Ngubelanga also extended his appreciation to the community for their ongoing support and for sharing vital information through the SAPS Crime Stop line (08600 10111) and the MySAPS mobile application, leaving nobody behind in this collective efforts to curb and reduce crime.

“The SAPS assures the public that all information received is treated with the utmost confidentiality,” he said.

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ANC in North West congratulates the newly-elected ANCYL structure

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Picture: The newly-elected ANCYL structure in North West

By BAKANG MOKOTO

5 May 2025- The ANC in the North West has sent its gratitude to the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) on the successful conclusion of the 10th North West Provincial Conference held at the Rustenburg Civic Centre, under the theme: “Driving Industrialization to achieve economic freedom now, not later.”

The ANC provincial secretary, Louis Diremelo said the election of new leadership within the ANCYL is a testament to the democratic processes that underpin the organisation and they are confident that these young leaders will carry forward the legacy of service and dedication to the people.

Diremelo said they believe that this new leadership will play a pivotal role in mobilizing the youth of the province, advocating for their rights and ensuring that their voices are heard in all phases of the struggle.

“The ANC remains committed to supporting the ANCYL in its endeavours to realise the twin tasks of the people’s revolution and to create a brighter future for the youth of the North West.

“We thank all delegates, organizers, and supporters who contributed to the success of the 10th ANCYL Provincial Conference. The dedication and commitment to the cause of youth empowerment is an emergency,” he said.

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Lesotho national nabbed for stock-theft

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Picture: Suspected stolen cattle worth R100 000 seized by the police/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

May 2025 – An accused, Tshepang Motseretsere Sepinara (22), who is an alleged illegal immigrant from Lesotho, briefly appeared before the Swartruggens Magistrate’s Court on 2 May 2025, for possession of suspected stolen cattle. Sepinara’s court appearance follows his arrest on Wednesday afternoon, 30 April 2025, in Swartruggens.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said the police received a tip-off that led them to the Derdepoort T-junction, where members of Madikwe and Phokeng Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Units, pounced on Sepinara during a controlled buy-and-bust operation. Myburgh said during the arrest, the police seized five Bonsmara calves worth R100 000.

“The calves were positively identified through brand marks and handed back to the rightful owner. Sepinara was remanded in custody until 21 May 2025, for formal bail application,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, thanked and commended vigilant members of the public for providing the police with positive information that led to the arrest of the suspect and the recovery of the cattle.

“It is also a serious concern that an illegal immigrant was employed by the farmer in contravention of the law,” said Asaneng.

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A security guard arrested for allegedly stabbing a man to death

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Picture: A security guard nabbed for allegedly stabbing a man to death /Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

5 May 2025– A security guard briefly appeared before the Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court on 2 May 2025, for the alleged murder of Kuni Daniel Setsetse (42). The accused, Kilile Dail (36), was arrested before midnight on 1 May 2025.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said initial information indicated that Dail was on duty as a security guard at a local filling station when he got involved in an argument with the victim and his friends, who had a challenge with withdrawing the money from an Automated Teller Machine (ATM). Myburgh said it was during the argument that Dail allegedly stabbed Setsetse on the upper body with a knife. 

“Setsetse was rushed to a local hospital where he was declared dead. Dail was granted a R500 bail and his case was postponed until 10 June 2025,” she said.   

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng said this yet another senseless murder, which could and should not have happened taking into consideration the circumstances under which it happened. Asaneng said the impulsive and irrational resort to violence in resolving differences has now resulted in the irreversible, unjustified loss of life and arrest both of which are going to affect livelihoods of the deceased and suspect’s families.

“The propensity for gratuitous violence as a way of settling differences often results in tragic unintended consequences,” he said.

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43 illegal miners nabbed during Operation Vala Umgodi

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Picture: Police searching for suspects during Operation Vala Umgodi/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

5 May 205- The ongoing Vala Umgodi operations continue to achieve successes. This comes after members deployed to deal with illegal mining arrested 43 men in Sun City, Mogwase and Tlhabane, for various crimes including the contravention of Section 49(1)(a) of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002).

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said the first group of 13 suspects was arrested at Ledig village, near Sun City on Tuesday morning, 29 April 2025, for allegedly being illegal immigrants. Myburgh said two of the suspects, both aged 29 and South Africans, were given a R1500 fine each for employing illegal immigrants (the contravention of section 38(1) (b) of the Immigration Act).

“In Bojating village, near Mogwase on Thursday morning, the team arrested 17 more illegal immigrants – all men aged between 18 and 42. During this operation, police confiscated a generator, battery and a shovel.

“On Friday, the team arrested a further 13 men between the ages of 20 and 47 in Geelhout Park in Tlhabane and in Extension 9, Boitekong, for being illegal immigrants. One illegal immigrant, aged 44, was also charged for being in possession of a dangerous weapon and two more men aged 42 and 25, were arrested for possession of drugs,” she said.

Myburgh further said the police confiscated a variety of drugs, including cocaine and dagga. She added that, all mentioned suspects will appear in the Bafokeng and Mankwe Magistrate’s Courts respectively.

“The suspects are from different countries, including Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Ethiopia, Swaziland, Nigeria and Lesotho,” said Myburgh.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, said: “It is deeply concerning that almost every week the police in the province are arresting large numbers of foreign nationals for not only being in the country illegally, but also for a variety of crimes such as dealing in drugs, illegal possession of drugs, unlicensed firearms, illegal mining and murders.

“They are also involved in robberies, theft of livestock and a raft of serious crimes, which threaten the territorial integrity, personal safety, the economy and undermine the authority of the state.”

Asaneng said the involvement of foreign nationals in the commission of crime, whether aided or abetted by South Africans, poses a serious threat to national security. He said as such requires a collaborative effort by civil society and various  government’s security and social departments such as the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Border Management Authority,  Customs/ South African Revenue Services (SARS),  Home Affairs Immigration, Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

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TNL Power Week 1 wraps up, setting the stage for an exciting second leg

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Picture: Netball players celebrating their win/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

5 May 2025- The Telkom Netball League’s (TNL) Power Week 1 concluded on a high note with electrifying matches at the Sun City Super Bowl. The talent and teamwork on display were impressive, with teams from both divisions demonstrating significant growth and a hunger for competition that promises an exciting season ahead.

The day’s action began with an encounter between the North West Flames and the Eastern Cape Aloes. The match was a nail-biter, with the Aloes taking an early 17-14 lead in the first quarter.

However, the Flames staged a comeback, winning the second quarter 31-30 and the third quarter 45-43. The Flames continued to dominate, drawing 13-13 in the final quarter wasn’t enough for the Aloes, and the final score was 58-56 in favour of the Flames.

The Flames’ victory was marked by several key stats, including Sunel Smit’s dominant rebounding performance (14-4). Despite similar turnovers (20 apiece), the Flames’ ability to capitalise on goal attempts and maintain discipline proved decisive.

The Aloes’ strong attack (109 circle feeds) showed their intent to dominate, but the Flames’ shooting percentage and strategic play ultimately paid off.

Coach Elsunet du Plessis of the North West Flames said, “I’m relieved we won the game. It was a tight match with many ups and downs. I’m happy with our team’s composure under pressure. Although some players were a bit flat, the team pulled together to secure the win.”

Coach Sameshia Esau of the Eastern Cape Aloes added, “Congratulations to the Flames on a great game of netball. While we didn’t get the result we wanted, I’m proud of my team’s progress. We’ve had limited practice time together, but we’ve made strides. I’m confident we’ll improve in the second leg.”

Aloes Wing Defence, Nomxolisi Luvuno’s impressive performance earned her Player of the Match honours.

The Tshukudu vs Comets match was an intense encounter. The Comets started strong in the first quarter, winning 11-6, but couldn’t maintain their lead. Tshukudu bounced back to dominate the remaining quarters: 23-19 in Q2, 34-29 in Q3, and closed out the match 48-41.

Coach Vivian Foko’s tactical adjustments proved pivotal, enabling Tshukudu to seize and hold onto the lead.

Tshukudu’s defence effectively disrupted the Comets’ flow, hindering their ability to find a rhythm. Despite both teams being evenly matched in terms of goal percentages and stats, Tshukudu’s additional attempts proved decisive.

The Super Shot feature had minimal impact, with both teams scoring only two points.

Coach Foko praised her team’s performance, saying, “It wasn’t easy, telling the truth, it was hard… But me calling the strategic time, I think it helps them just to tell them, just to calm down, girls, you’ve got it. You know your channels. Just use your channels. Stay calm, we’re going to have this, they did exactly what I asked them to do.”

Aloes Assistant Coach Xolelwa Wotsitsa expressed pride in her team’s growth, saying, “I feel happy the girls are growing every game. It’s their first time in this intense, high-performance competition, so I believe next time it’s going to be good. Our preparations focus on intense defence, shooting, and converting intercepts and centre passes.”

In the last Division 2 encounter, the Kingdom Queens pulled one against the Diamonds. They started strong, maintaining a high pace throughout the game. The Queens’ offence was led by goal shooter Thobekile Mjaja. The Queens’ defence, particularly the duo of Silindile Ngcobo and Senamile Mthembu, was outstanding. The inclusion of Nelisiwe Msweli added depth and accuracy to the team’s attack.

The statistics reflected the Queens’ dominance, with an impressive 83% goal conversion rate compared to the Diamonds’ 52%. The Diamonds struggled with turnovers, which hindered their chances of success.

In the last match of the day, the defending champions, the Crinums led by Coach Marth Mosoahle-Samms, suffered their second defeat, wrapping up the first leg on a low note.  The Eagles dominated from the start, winning the first quarter 21-5, and maintained their lead throughout. Despite a strong comeback in the final quarters, the Crinums couldn’t overcome the damage done in the first quarter, ultimately losing 57-49.

Power Week 1 has concluded! Teams are now taking a well-deserved break to recharge for the next chapter of intense competition in the second leg.

Catch the next Power week on the 13-17 June 2025 at the Sun City Sun Park.

Full Day Results:

07:00 Flames 58-56 Aloes

09:00 Tshukudu 48-41 Comets

11:00 Diamonds 23-49 KD Queens

13:00 Crinums 49-57 Zambezi Eagles

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