Crinums to introduce new faces in clash against Aloes

By Mpumi Manyisi
3rd May 2024

Free State Crinums coach Martha Mosoahle says she will rest some of her key players to give new faces an opportunity against the Eastern Cape Aloes at the Ellis Park Arena on Saturday.

The Crinums have enjoyed a decent run in the first half of the 2024 Telkom Netball League, they sit in second place on the Division 1 log with nine points even with defending champions the Gauteng Jaguars - after claiming four wins in five games.

Mosoahle says she is happy that half of the job is done, as they prepare for their last game in the first half of the league.

"Against the Aloes, I'm looking forward to throwing some other players that haven't had the opportunity to play and resting some bodies that have been really working hard this week. Exposing some new talent that we have, players that are hungry to take the court. So, we hope that all will go well and that's what we expect against the Aloes," Mosoahle said.

READ: Fireballs out to end Jaguars' unbeaten run in the TNL Gauteng derby

The Crinums are resting for the second time today after their five back-to-back matches. The Free State side mentor believes today’s break will be important for her team to rest and regroup ahead of what is expected to be a challenging match against the Aloes on Saturday.

"Today's rest is going to be very important for the bodies after five tough matches and a bit of niggles here and there and a bit of sickness here and there, I think this is a very great rest for us ahead of our last match and we're very grateful for it," she added.

Coach Mosoahle’s Crinums will approach their weekend clash, at the back of a convincing 44-37 win against the Stings on Thursday. With their vice captain Refiloe Nketsa claiming two player of the match accolades in one week.

Mosoahle believes the 23-year-old wing defence is a natural leader on and off the field.

"Refiloe Nketsa's contribution this week has been phenomenal. She's one of the most talented players we have ever worked with. She's so easy to work with. She's such a natural leader and her aura and her presence as a vice captain in this team is doing a tremendous job. So, we're very proud of Fifi and of the work that she is really put in to be where she is today."