Bingu Tigresses win Presidential Netball Cup in style
Bingu Tigresses proved that they are still a force to reckon with in Malawi’s netball circles when they grabbed the Presidential National Netball Cup with a thrilling 59-44 victory against unfamiliar final challengers, o Blue Eagles Sisters, at Blantyre Youth Centre in Blantyre on Saturday.
Escom Sisters, who were defending the cup, scooped the third slot after their 41-37 victory to MTL Queens.
The electricians were shocked in the semi-finals by the Eagle Sisters by 31-43 baskets, their first defeat after seven years.
Escom Sisters Coach, Griffin ‘Zagalo’ Saenda was left out of words after their semi-final defeat.
“First of all, let me congratulate our friends, they really outplayed us and they deserved this victory. Our focus now will dwell on the OG Issa League because it is the only cup which we have remained with it,” said Saenda.
The Finals
Back to Bingu Tigresses versus Blue Eagles Sisters finals, it was a highly contested match, as both sides showed determination from the first whistle. But it was a clinical performance of Tigress which earned them the title.
Blue Eagles Sisters shooter, Joyce Mvula was a headache to Tigresses as she notched more baskets for her side, while the brilliant shooting Sindi ‘Sniper’ Simutowe turned the tide for Tigresses and proved to be the toast for the champions.
Other players for Tigresses, who were a marvel to watch, were Lauren Ngwira, Grace Mhango, Beatrice Kadango and Ellen Chibokho.
The joy
Bingu Tigresses coach, Charles Mhango, said the win was great for his club after last year’s heart break when they lost the cup to Escom in Mzuzu.
“There couldn’t be anything better. We are back in town, said Mhango.
“Our next target now is the OG Issa Netball League,” he added.
Mhango also praised his ladies for the fighting hard spirit during the entire tournament.
“My players have been outstanding during the entire tournament and l must commend them even our fans,” he said.
For scooping the first place, Tigresses received cart home with a cool K4 million.
Blue Eagles Sisters finished on the second place, while Escom Sisters wrapped up the tournament on the third position with MTL Queens basking on the third place.
