Johannesburg successfully defends its SA Netball Championships title

They stormed into a commanding 7-0 lead within the first seven minutes and maintained their dominance throughout the match.

It was a rematch of the thrilling 49-49 draw that took place during the round-robin stages but this time, Johannesburg emerged victorious, raising the Championships trophy for the second time in front of an enthusiastic crowd, despite the sweltering heat. Coach Dr. Elsje Jordaan of Johannesburg expressed that her two years of dedicated hard work had finally paid off with this win.

"At the back, you know there was just no intercept on their side today for a full hour so I'm very happy about that. We wanted to keep it short because we couldn't go up into the air we respect Retief [Ane] and her jump and how strong she's in the air. So it worked for us. I'll say our shooters were a bit too close and both of them were on the same side. They knew we were coming for the short play," Jordaan said.

Jordaan explained that the game plan revolved around securing a strong start and applying pressure on the opposition team, and it executed flawlessly to perfection.

Originating from the North West province, Jordaan clinched the title last year in Potchefstroom, and achieving victory once more in Rustenburg felt as familiar and comforting as a hometown triumph for her.

"I am a girl from North West so it's like almost being back home but we are very grateful. We started this journey two years ago. I started with this group, some of the players come longer with me from other provinces and other teams that I've coached but two years ago we started this journey. 

The results that we've been showing in two years are just magnificent and I think if we could keep this group together and keep leading your young talent that's available, I think we will become stronger and stronger."