Defending champions, the Namibian Correctional Service (NCS)’s head coach, Teri Tuaire, said the recent MTC Netball Namibia Premier League matches in Windhoek’s Khomasdal were successful, despite facing some challenges. 

“We secured maximum points for the weekend, which is always a positive. However, technically, we didn’t execute our plans as well as we had hoped. We also had to deal with injuries that forced us to make major adjustments. 

We have identified the areas that need work, and the plan now is to improve on those. Credit to the teams we played, they pushed us, but ultimately, I believe the team that wants it more always comes out on top,” said the coach. 

Round 16 highlights 

Afrocat Lions powered past Wanderers NC 49-33 in a dominant round 16 clash. Vezembouua Mauano put in a stellar performance to earn Player of the Match honours. 

NCS showcased their championship form with a commanding 53-15 win over Unam Jaguars. Mwale Mulenamaswe took home the Player of the Match award for her outstanding performance. 

Round 17 recap 

Afrocat Lions 39–24 Unam Jaguars 

The Lions controlled the game from start to finish, leading each quarter: 11–8, 17–15, 29–19, and finishing 39–24. 

Julia Valombola was named Player of the Match. 

NCS once again proved too strong, maintaining control throughout the match. Quarter scores were 14–8, 24–16, 36–22, and closing at 45–32. Monique Basson was named Player of the Match. 

The final clash of the weekend ended in an exciting draw. Unam Jaguars started strong with a 10–7 lead, tied 18–18 at halftime, led 25–22 in the third quarter, but Tigers fought back to tie it at 31–31. Hileni Thomas of Tigers was named Player of the Match for her defensive efforts. 

There are two weekends of netball left before the final, with this weekend’s action scheduled for the Khomasdal netball courts. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na