Malawi Queens thrash Botswana in Diamond Challenge
Smarting from a 75-32 convincing win against Zambia, Malawi Queens thrashed Botswana 63-29 in their second match at the inaugural Netball Diamond Challenge in Pretoria on Thursday.
It was another blistering form the African netball champions proved why they wear the crown with a fast and furious display.
The Malawi side were given a tough time in the first quarter and although they held the lead in goals, at 12-7, Botswana dominated possession. They also led 31-14 in the second quarter.
In the third quarter Botswana raised false hopes looking dangerous whenever they possessed the ball.
But Malawi led by sharp shooter Mwayi Kumwenda and Sindi Msimutowe went on to win the quarter with 21-50.
Kumwenda, who plays professional netball in Australia, used her height and reach to her advantage and was exceptional in receiving the long ball. Her 83 percent accuracy in the match is the highest of the tournament so far.
The Queens won forcing their opponents to go off the courts with their heads bowed
Malawi head coach Griffin Zagallo said he was confident his charges will win the cup but said the main challenge will be the game against hosts South Africa on Friday
“Yes we can win it but we have to cross the bridge first to celebrate,” Saenda told Nyasa Times at Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria, South Africa
The youthful squad also comprises Joyce Mvula, Bridget Kumwenda, Beatrice Kadango, Tina Kamuyambeni and Thandi Galeta.
Others are Caroline Ngwira, Towera Vinkhumbo, Grace Mhango, Joana Kachilika and Loraine Ngwira.
The objective of the tournament is to celebrate the role of women in sports and in particular elevate the profile of netball in South Africa as that country celebrates women’s month.
Malawi Queens is using the tournament to prepare for the World Netball Series in New Zealand in November this year which will draw the world’s top six netball nations.
