Augusta Mbai, the head coach of Unam Jaguars, hopes her team will build on their last match’s performance when they take on Afrocat Lions in the MTC Netball Namibia Premier League (NNPL).
The second leg begins this weekend, with various matches lined up in Windhoek and Ogongo in the northern part of the country.
On Saturday in the capital, action will resume with a clash between Afrocat Lions and Jaguars at Wanderers Sports Ground.
Lions, currently in sixth place on the standings, will be hoping to start the second leg on a high note with a win.
They have so far amassed a total of 12 points from 11 matches played.
This year’s run has seen them win six matches while losing five.
Speaking to this publication yesterday, Dimitri Bittler, the head coach of the Lions, said he expects tomorrow’s match to be a tough one as the Jaguars are an equally strong team.
He, however, mentioned that his side has prepared well, and is eyeing maximum points.
“We obviously want to collect maximum points this weekend. We know we are going against a formidable team, but we have equally good players. Additionally, some players who travelled with the national team are returning to the squad, and I am sure their experience will benefit us in this encounter against the Jaguars,” he said.
Regarding key players missing out, Bittler added: “We have one player who is out for this specific fixture, but on the other hand, this gives us the time and opportunity to also bring in players from the development squad. This will be a great opportunity for those younger players to make a difference in the team”.
Meanwhile, Mbai expressed her desire to build on their last match, which they won away against Eastern Chiefs.
She added that she is counting on her experienced players to showcase their skills this weekend.
“We ended the first leg on a good note, winning 44-42 against Eastern Chiefs, which was a huge achievement for us, especially since we beat them at their home. But this weekend will be different, and my players are aware of what to expect against an experienced team like Afrocat. My team is happy, and the mood in the camp is high. We just want to build on our last performance,” she said.
In other fixtures over the weekend, Namibia Correctional Services will square off against Wanderers at 17h00, while Unam Ogongo will take on Young Stars at 11h30.
On Sunday, Wanderers will face Afrocat Lions at 15h30.
-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na