Affies edge Paarl Gim in thriller to open Suzuki Netball Power Series
The inaugural Suzuki Netball Power Series got off to a thrilling start as Affies edged Paarl Gimnasium 30–27 in a fiercely contested opening clash in Pretoria. In a match worthy of launching the new competition, two of South Africa’s premier school netball sides produced a high-quality spectacle, with Affies holding their nerve in the closing stages to preserve their unbeaten 2026 record. The encounter showcased the intensity and standard expected from the series, underlining exactly why the Suzuki Netball Power Series is poised to become a major platform for elite schoolgirls’ netball in South Africa
Two of South Africa’s best teams, Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool of Pretoria (AHMP) and Paarl Gimnasium, faced each other in an exciting encounter in Pretoria in which the result could have gone either way.
Affies kept their unbeaten record so far for 2026 intact by walking from the court victors at 30-27. Both sides are coached by former Protea-players in Yolande Ferreira (AHMP) and Juline van der Merwe (Paarl Gimnasium).
The home side came out on top because of their better shooting accuracy during the match with Anzélle Stofberg (goal shooter) and Milan Oberholzer (goal assist) leading the way.
Stofberg was named Food Lovers Market Player of the Match for her brilliant performance on the day. The only quarter that Affies did not outperform the visitors in the match was during the second quarter.
Paarl Gim scored 10 goals to 7 in the third quarter to take a narrow 16-15 lead at half-time. The hosts took the first quarter by 8-6.
In the third quarter Affies took control winning it by 7-4 to take a 22-19 lead. The Gimmies howewer had something to cheer about as Sophia Liebenberg (wing defence) intercepted a pass in this quarter which was announced as the Suzuki Power Moment.
Liebenberg was also her side’s best player on the day. So, a well-deserved accolade for her after a stellar performance.
Before the match Gim’s only defeat so far came against Helpmekaar Kollege (15-16) during the annual Menlopark Netball-tournament. They also drew 22-all against Die Hoërskool Menlopark.
Affies is still unbeaten after winning their annual Affie Prestige-tournament last month. They defeated Stellenberg by 28-24 in the final of this tournament.