… De Beer hails massive attendance
WINDHOEK – The Chief Executive Officer of the Namibian Rugby Union (NRU) Sybrand de Beer described the Windhoek Draught Tri-Nations Rugby Tournament currently underway at the Hage Geingob Stadium as a massive success and a true value adding initiative of African rugby.
Speaking to New Era Sports yesterday, De Beer could not hide his excitement about the level of professionalism in organizing the tournament and the high level of competitiveness the teams participating in the tournament are displaying.
With the opening match between hosts Namibia and Zimbabwe said to have attracted more than 3000 spectators, De Beer says local rugby lovers were given a real treat and great quality and entertaining rugby for their money, adding that the quality of rugby on offer by all participating teams justifies the massive attendance and speaks volumes of the NRU’s commitment towards the development of rugby, nationally and on the continent. “Last year we invited Spain and they really gave us good competition and added great quality to the whole event, but this year we have decided to invite Kenya since they are the African champions and they have indeed impressed with their quality.
The motive of the tournament is not just about benefiting and giving our local players exposure and game time, but it also aims to engage African rugby playing countries on a more international platform,” said De Beer. After suffering a narrow 35-26 defeat at the hands of Namibia in the opening match of the tournament, Zimbabwe on Tuesday dusted themselves off and went on to pull off a resounding 29-14 victory over African champions Kenya in the second match of the series. Meanwhile, hosts Namibia will return to action on Saturday when they confront Kenya in the second encounter for both teams.
By Otniel Hembapu