GROOTFONTEIN – Round 10 and 11 of the MTC Netball Namibia Premier League brought high-intensity drama, shock victories and standout performances over the weekend, as teams battled it out at the Grootfontein Secondary School netball courts.

One of the most surprising outcomes came from a youthful and determined Unam Ogongo team, who pulled off a stunning upset against the experienced Namibian Navy side. 

In a nail-biting finish, Unam Ogongo clinched a 45-44 victory, showing composure well beyond their years. Proving that their earlier win was no fluke, the rising squad went on to secure a second victory on the same day, this time edging out powerhouse Tigers in another close match, 47-45.

Unam Ogongo’s head coach Taapopi Sakupaula expressed pride in his players’ discipline and execution.

“The girls are simply delivering what they’ve been working on during training. It’s all about sticking to the plan and keeping calm under pressure,” he noted.

Elsewhere on the courts, Wanderers had a great Sunday, winning their clash against Unam Jaguars. 

Monica Gomases was very influential in her side’s performance on Sunday, as she was not available on Saturday.

Afrocat Lions’ Selma Bitler showed great leadership for her side over the weekend, even though Namibian Correctional Service’s centre Martha Shaampeni stood out with back-to-back Player of the Match honours in her team’s encounters against Tigers and Afrocat Lions. 

Fresh from competing in the recently concluded Southern African Development Community Games, she acknowledged the toll the packed schedule is taking on her body.

“It’s been a tough run, but with the right rest and recovery, I’ll be ready to come back strong for the next round,” she added.

Meanwhile, Unam Jaguars’ Grace Matyayi stressed the importance of fan support in the face of tough competition.

“We always appreciate our fans. Now it’s time to go back to the drawing board, come back stronger and give them even more spectacular matches,” she shared. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na