Tornados and Crinums cap strong TNL runs

The Telkom Netball League Power Week 1 came to an exciting close at the Durban University of Technology, with teams delivering spirited performances on the final day to round off a week of high-intensity competition.

With momentum, standings and confidence all on the line, Day 9 provided a fitting conclusion as sides now turn their focus to the next phase of the tournament.

The Tornados capped an outstanding Power Week 1 campaign with a 51-45 victory over Free State Sonoblomo, maintaining their unbeaten run in the second division.

After leading 28-21 at half-time, the Tornados were tested by a determined Sonoblomo side, who mounted a strong third-quarter comeback to close the gap to just three goals.

However, the Tornados held their nerve in the final quarter to secure the win and underline their status as the team to beat and it was their centre Lara Ehlers who once again played her heart out to earn the Player of the Match accolade.

The Kingdom Queens continued their impressive run with a 60-48 win over the Comets.

In a competitive contest, the Queens gradually asserted control, pulling away in the second half to secure a convincing victory, much to the delight of the home crowd. Queen’s Goal Shooter Aphiwe Thusini once again starred and was named Player of the Match.

The Baobabs secured a solid 52-44 win over Tshukudu in a closely contested encounter, holding their composure in the final minutes to close out the result.

Meanwhile, the Southern Stings edged the Flames 51-45 in a tightly fought battle, maintaining their advantage throughout to finish the week on a high.

The Aloes delivered a controlled performance to defeat the Kingdom Stars 49-34, capitalising on defensive pressure and limiting the Stars’ attacking flow.

Despite a late push from the Stars, the Aloes maintained their advantage to secure a comfortable win.

The Malawi U21 side continued their impressive form, closing out their campaign with another strong performance against the Lilies.

From early inconsistency to clinical execution, Malawi showed significant growth throughout the tournament, finishing with authority - highlighted by back-to-back Telkom Supershots to end the match.

With lessons learned and momentum gained, teams will now regroup and prepare for the next leg of the Telkom Netball League, where the competition is set to intensify even further.