The Free State Crinums continued their impressive run in the Telkom Netball League (TNL) by securing a strong 47-37 victory over defending champions the Gauteng Golden Fireballs at Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg.

The match, played during Power Week 2, was a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s final, which the Fireballs had won while completing an unbeaten 2025 season.

This time, however, it was the Crinums who showed dominance and composure to extend their own unbeaten streak across the opening two Power Weeks of the current season.

From the outset, the Crinums set the tone with disciplined defensive work led by veteran Karla Pretorius, allowing them to build a commanding 27-17 lead by half-time.

Although the Fireballs attempted a comeback in the third quarter, narrowing the gap early on, the Crinums quickly reasserted control with a scoring surge that pushed their advantage to 38-25 heading into the final quarter.

Their ability to control possession, particularly in circle feeds and goal attempts, proved decisive in maintaining a comfortable lead through to the final whistle.

Despite their strong performance, the Crinums acknowledged concerns around their high penalty count, which they aim to improve before the semi-finals.Head coach Martha Mosoahle-Samm praised her team’s third-quarter performance and overall execution, noting their determination and focus.

Fireballs coach Dr Elsje Jordaan, meanwhile, highlighted her side’s struggles in attack but expressed confidence in addressing the issues moving forward.The result cements the Crinums as serious title contenders heading into the TNL play-offs.