The MTC Namibia Netball Premier League (NNPL) continues to capture the attention of fans across the country as the race for top honours and the battle to avoid relegation intensify.
Following the completion of rounds five and six over the past weekend, the log standings have tightened, setting the stage for even more dramatic encounters in the coming weeks.
At the top of the table, Unam Ogongo Netball Club has maintained their unbeaten run, solidifying their position as frontrunners with 10 points from five matches.
They remain the team to beat as they continue to produce consistent performances on both ends of the court.
Hot on their heels are the Namibian Correctional Service (NCS) and Namibian Navy Netball Club, both tied on eight points.
However, NCS has the edge when it comes to goal difference, boasting an impressive +115 – currently the highest in the league.
Their well-structured defence and high-scoring attack make them one of the most dominant sides this season.
They remain the only other unbeaten team alongside Unam Ogongo.
The race for mid-table supremacy is also heating up.
Otjozondjupa Nampol, Wanderers and Tigers are locked in a fierce contest, with eight and six points, respectively.
These teams are proving to be resilient competitors, with every match influencing the dynamic shuffle in the middle of the standings.
On the other end of the spectrum, Unam Jaguars continue to face challenges, particularly on defence.
They have conceded a staggering 323 goals so far – more than any other team in the league.
This has raised concerns about their ability to turn their season around.
The relegation battle is equally intense. Cuca Tops Netball Club remains rooted at the bottom of the table, yet to register a single point after six matches.
Afrocat Lions and Eastern Chiefs are also in dangerous territory, occupying 11th and 12th place, respectively, as they fight to avoid the drop in the remaining rounds.
Speaking after the weekend’s action, the secretary general of Netball Namibia Sofia Simon praised the high level of competition witnessed during the recent rounds.
“Round five was filled with closely contested matches across the country. The intensity carried over into round six, with players demonstrating remarkable skill, endurance and teamwork,” she added. “The fans were treated to thrilling netball, with teams battling hard to improve their positions on the log,” Simon said.
She noted that the league will now shift focus to Walvis Bay next weekend, where more exciting fixtures are lined up. The coastal town is expected to draw large crowds as teams continue their quest for league points.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na