NIC edge Buddo in thriller as UCU cruise past UPDF

NIC Netball Club survived a stern test from a youthful Buddo side to claim a 39-32 victory, while UCU Canons produced a dominant display to thrash UPDF 47-33 in a double-header of netball action over the weekend.

The opening match between NIC and Buddo was a tense, back-and-forth affair. Buddo gave NIC an early scare in the first quarter, with star attacker Alek and Fortunate Kizito using their height and physicality to disrupt NIC's defensive pair of Nassim Mutesi and Aya Gloria.

Midfield steals kept Buddo in control, while NIC struggled with poor rebounding and sloppy passing. However, veteran goal attacker Rachael Nanyonga stepped up aggressively toward the end of the quarter to level the scores at 7-7.

The second quarter belonged entirely to NIC as their vast experience took over. They dictated the tempo, tightened their passing, and successfully cut off the supply of ball to Alek, building a commanding 20-13 lead by halftime. But Buddo refused to back down.

In the third quarter, Buddo goal defender Namulinda Faima executed four crucial steals compared to NIC's single interception, as the youngsters fought back fiercely. Frustrated by uncalled physical play and what they deemed poor officiating, NIC turned over possession repeatedly, allowing Buddo to close the gap to just one point at 27-26 heading into the final quarter.

Despite ongoing frustrations with the umpires, NIC coach Mutebi made a brilliant tactical adjustment by shifting goal shooter Zam Sera to goal keeper to match Alek's strength. Though Sera was temporarily timed out for an infringement, goal defender Aya Gloria stepped up in the dying minutes, making three vital steals from Alek to seal a hard-fought 39-32 victory for NIC.

In the afternoon fixture, UCU Canons produced a much more controlled performance against UPDF. Unlike the high-intensity curtain-raiser, this game was a more straightforward affair.

UCU commanded every phase of the match across all four quarters, with Bashirah Nassazi anchoring the shooting unit while the mid-court and defensive lines effectively neutralised the UPDF offence.

Both coaching staffs heavily rotated their benches, with every player contributing positive minutes. UPDF faded late in the game, allowing UCU to comfortably seal the win. UCU captain Linda Muzigo celebrated the victory as a textbook "good day at the office."

The results highlight contrasting strengths on display. NIC's veteran grit proved decisive in a tense battle, while UCU's all-round dominance signaled their intent as serious contenders this season.