Zebaldt Ngaruka
Otjinene-based football team Okauua Rovers won the Top-Two competition at Augustineum Secondary School sports ground on Sunday.
The competition, under the auspices of the Namibia Rural Sports Development Federation (NRSDF), started on 6 April in the capital with 26 football teams and 20 netball teams.
Okauua Rovers crushed Okauua Rising Stars 2-0 in the first semi-final, and booked their place in the final.
In the second semi-final, Epukiro giants Okovimburu eliminated the Aminuis-based Otjeue football team 3-0 to reserve their spot in the final against Okauua Rovers.
In a highly-contested final, Okovimburu scored early in the first half, courtesy of Tjipee Ruhumba. But Okauua Rovers’ Kenny-Boy Kambirongo scored two goals to clinch victory.
The Top-Two champion pocketed N$12 000 in addition to the trophy and 20 gold medals, while runners-up Okovimburu took home N$7 000 and 20 silver medals.
Otjeue and Okauua Rising Stars each settled for N$3 000 as semi-finalists.
Tjiunatjo Kaseraera, head coach of Okauua Rovers, said their triumph will revive the team spirit and their confidence after a dry spell without winning competitions.
The coach added that their preparation was key to their victory, and players had a clear mission on the field.
“We were clinical, produced a lot of goal-scoring opportunities, and our forwards converted from these. We scored in every game we played, which helped us gain momentum, and we are happy for victory,” Kaseraera added.
On his part, Uazuvirua Kandjou, head coach of Okovimburu, said it was not a bad ending for his team, and they played against a well-organised team.
“I am happy with our display; it is a good motivation for the upcoming tournament. Okauua Rovers is one of the top teams in Omaheke. Congratulations to them. We will meet again in the Omaheke top 20 clubs’ competition,” said Kandjou.
The netball final, which took place on 7 April, saw Otjinoko walking away with the trophy after beating Renamo Bucks 26-20.
The Top-Two competition is played by rural teams from various parts of the country, who were victors and runners-up of the annual festive season tournaments.
Provisions are also given to invitational teams that are part of the NRSDF.