Zim netball team off to a flying start

Dalphine Tagwireyi in Bulawayo

THE Zimbabwe netball team started their African Union Sports Council Region 5 Under-20 Youth Games on a high note when they dispatched Swaziland 57-16 in a match played at the White City netball courts yesterday.

The host nation played a great game as they manoeuvred past their opponents, taking their chances and were ahead barely a minute from the start.

But to their credit, the visitors initially proved a tough opponent for the local girls as they refused to be cowed.

However, by the end of the first quarter, the hosts were already leading 14 nets to the visitors’ paltry two.

Zimbabwe dominated the second quarter as they went all the way to bag their first set of points.

Zimbabwe assistant coach Simbarashe Mlambo paid tribute to the home supporters.

“Swaziland gave us a good challenge but the girls were well co-ordinated as their passes were superb. However, we owe it to our supporters, who kept encouraging the girls and they dominated the game”, he said.

Swaziland coach Fakudzo Simanga said they were punished for failing to convert their chances.

“The Zimbabwe team brought pace to the game, it was a really good game given that it was the opening game.

“I hope my girls will take more scoring chances instead of playing a good game without scoring”, he said.

Teams

Zimbabwe: Sharon Bwanali (GS), Mercy Mukwadi (GA), Nomagugu Makhalima (3rd quarter) Chidochashe Chiwenga (WA), Tasilimah Mbimba (C), Sanele Ncube (WD), Felistus Kwangwa (GD) captain, Patricia Mauladi (GK)

Swaziland: Phangisile Dlamini (WA) captain, Setsabile Dlamini (GS), Tengetile Dlamini (C 2nd quarter Nomfundo Mlambo), Nonhle Hlophe (GA), Siphelile Myeni