Zim netball team in second defeat

July 10, 2017

Zim netball team in second defeat

Ellina Mhlanga, Harare Bureau
IT was another disappointing game for Zimbabwe in their second tie at the ongoing Netball World Youth Cup as they went down 42-53 to South Africa yesterday in Gaborone, Botswana.

It was their second successive defeat after losing their Pool B opening encounter against Australia on Saturday 33-86.

And yesterday they had another tough encounter, losing to their neighbours at the University of Botswana by 11 points.

Going into their match against Australia, who have won the Cup four times since its inception in 1988, it was always going to be difficult for Zimbabwe taking into account the difference in terms of exposure and experience of the two sides.

Zimbabwe are making their debut appearance in the competition which is the pinnacle of netball competition for emerging players who are Under-21 years of age.

But after losing to four-time champions Australia, the Young Gems had hoped for a favourable result against South Africa yesterday.

Speaking after the game, national Under-21 coach Ropafadzo Mutsauki expressed disappointment on the officiating as he felt it had contributed to their loss.

“We lost the game 42-53 but the officiating I think was very disappointing. I wasn’t happy with the umpiring I witnessed today (yesterday). It seems like South Africa are not supposed to lose to another African team but we are still in,” Mutsauki said.

However, he conceded defeat against Australia and acknowledged that they are a good side.

“I think we played well, height is the only disadvantage for us. The competition is very high but I can say we are one of the best teams in Africa, Australia is a good team.

“The girls are playing really well, they are giving it their all and as a coach I am happy. It’s only that we have a difficult pool,” Mutsauki said.

Zimbabwe have a date against Singapore today. They conclude their group games against Barbados tomorrow.

As they go into today’s match, Mutsauki and his side are maintaining a positive attitude, still expectant of their first win.

Australia and South Africa have so far won all their matches.

The tournament is being held on the African continent for the first time and 20 countries are taking part in the event.