Round 8 of the MTC Netball Namibia Premier League delivered a thrilling weekend of high-octane action.
It left coaches and players fired up as teams continue to battle for dominance in the second half of the season.
Otjozondjupa Nampol’s head coach Marvelous Khaebes described the weekend’s fixtures as an exhilarating showcase of top-tier netball.
“It was a very exciting weekend of games. I honestly missed this type of atmosphere. The energy on the court was incredible. Teams displayed passion, drive and impressive teamwork. It was unfortunate that the Walvis Bay community didn’t come out in large numbers to support the matches, but those who did witness it saw top-class defence, creative play and standout individual performances that rightly earned player of the match accolades,” she said.
She praised the overall competitiveness of the weekend, noting how each team gave its best, regardless of position on the log.
“We’re already looking forward to the next round. A huge thank you to New Era for continuing to bring the game to the people, reporting from courtside and keeping netball fans informed from the comfort of their homes,” Khaebes remarked.
Head coach of Afrocat Lions Dimitri Bitler reflected on the intensity of the weekend, labelling it “a weekend of real netball”.
Despite a narrow loss to rivals Eastern Chiefs, he acknowledged the growing rivalry with respect.
“It was another fiercely contested encounter. We fell short to Eastern Chiefs again – this time by just two goals. They’ve truly become our nemesis, consistently edging us out in the tightest of matches,” he said.
However, Afrocat Lions bounced back in their second fixture.
“On Sunday, the Lions roared back with intent against the Namibian Navy. It was a show of grit, discipline and belief.
Although our season has seen us on the wrong side of narrow losses, this time, the girls held their nerve and reminded everyone why we belong in the Premier League. It was a well-deserved victory and proof that our hard work is finally bearing fruit,” Bitler added.
He highlighted how Round 8 shifted the dynamics of the league, particularly for teams at the bottom of the standings.
“The so-called bottom teams are no longer just showing up. They’re now serious contenders. The gap between the top and bottom is narrowing quickly,” he said.
He noted several standout performances over the weekend.
“Namibian Navy nearly pulled off an upset against log leaders Namibia Correctional Service, pushing them right to the final whistle. Eastern Chiefs came back from 13 goals down to lose by just two in a thrilling match. Tigers and Mighty Gunners battled to a gripping draw, while Wanderers gave Namibian Navy a tough run, losing by only a single goal.
“With margins this fine, every quarter matters – every goal, every turnover – it all adds up. The second half of the season is shaping up to be a real nail-biter,” Bitler stated.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na