Baby Jewels bounce back to beat Tanzania
Netball
Despite losing their opener, the young Namibians remained in the hunt.
Netball Namibia’s team bounced back nicely after losing their opening match at the African under-21 World Cup qualifiers happening in Pretoria against Malawi by 23-48. Yesterday the Baby Desert Jewels recovered in spectacular fashion to win their game against Tanzania by 38 points.
Namibia dominated matters from the first whistle, establishing an early lead of 11-2 in the first quarter. They maintained their momentum throughout the game, entering the half-time break with a convincing score of 26-5 advantage.
After the half-time break, Namibia remained firmly in control, widening their lead to 42-10 before ultimately sealing the victory with a final score of 55-17.
Namibia team captain Elizabeth Besser said in a post-match interview: “In today’s match we played really well. We went back to analyse and we executed what we were supposed to. This win will be a huge boost in morale for us.”
In the continental tournament featuring seven teams, there are just three coveted slots up for grabs for the upcoming 2025 World Cup finals set to take place in Gibraltar next year.
Tanzania’s losing captain Catherine Bunzali remarked: “We need to enhance our attacking prowess to bolster our chances of clinching one of the three spots for the World Cup next year.
“We didn’t deserve to win this game. We let our coach down, but I hope we can make it next time. We’ve learned that our attack lacks accuracy, but we must improve.
“This tournament in South Africa is fantastic. We are enjoying the treatment and everything; we just need to start winning soon.”
Favourites
Despite dominating the regional Africa Youth World Cup qualifiers held at the University of Pretoria, the Baby Proteas coach Precious Mthembu feels Malawi and Zimbabwe will be their biggest test.
The young South Africans showcased their prowess with two resounding victories – a staggering 75-7 triumph over Tanzania, followed by another dominating 72-9 win against Zambia.
Namibia’s remaining pool matches:
Tuesday 19 March, v Zimbabwe (18:00)
Thursday 20 March, v South Africa (10:00)
Thursday 20 March, v Kenya (16:00)
Friday 22 March, v Zambia (12:00)