Sparks in Rainbow Paints Cup as semi-final slots decided
The semi-finals in the prestigious Rainbow Paints netball Top Six series is now complete with Escom Sisters paired with Woget Stars, as MTL Queens have to overcome inform Bingu Tigresses in what would be a game to watch.
MTL Queens, which struggled to beat Air Wing Sistser 39-20 baskets in their first encounter, lost their second game to Escom Sisters by 15-27 baskets.
As for the electricians, they whacked Air Wing in their first game by 49 baskets to 8.
In another game, Woget sneaked through into the semi-finals with a 23-18 margin after losing their first game to Bingu Tigresses 15-51.
Main game
MTL Queens reckless performance saw them being pruned by not so impressive Escom Sisters 15-27 baskets.
MTL, which featured the mixture of old and new blood in the likes of Emma Mzagada, Rianna Mtenje, Thandiwe Galeta, Pilirani Msaka, no nonsense Joana Kachilika failed to command the game as they were losing balls unnecessarily.
Kachilika, fresh from the World Fast5 tournament which took place in New Zealand, was outstanding as goalkeeper while the vast experienced Emma Mzagada in front was super only to be let down by their centre which Thandiwe failed to command.
Thandiwe was outplayed by Escom’s Bridget Kumwenda, who was a marvel to watch while Towera ‘Tobe’ Vinkhumbo was brilliant alongside Caroline ‘Ayuda’ Ngwira in keeping MTL Queens shooters at bay.
Another player on the electricians side, who showed maturity in notching in goals was Jessica ‘Agogo’ Mazengera who co-ordinate well with Sarudzai Gondwe.
Escom Sisters dominated all the four quarters starting with the first quarter 8-9, 13-9, 19-13before wrapping up the game on 27-15.
Drama
Drama ensued in the third quarter when some Escom Sisters supporters were shown marching orders for using foul language to MTL Queens players in the proceedings on the game.
The four girls, who sat close to MTL Queens scoring goal were insulting MTL Queens players each time they hold the ball irking the umpires who did not hesitate but giving them first warning.
But the insults continued, one of umpires demanded for the ouster of the girls out of the BYC ground which they accepted after Escom Sisters coach Griffin Saenda intervened.
Satisfied
Southern Region netball league general secretary Annie Hanjahanja told Nyasa Times that they were satisfied with the progress of the tournament and urged fans to come in large numbers next Saturday to witness the semi-finals.
Hanjahanja also saluted new rookies Air Wing for giving one giant MTL Queens a run for their money even though they were exited alongside Glass Bank.
