Africa Netball Cup throws up thrills and spills 

Netball Namibia president Rebekka Goagoses says the Africa Netball Cup is getting along magnificently at Swakopmund following initial technical and logistical glitches.

Time delays, mixed up flags on promo material and repeated livestream failures marred proceedings on the opening day, threatening to derail Namibia’s audition as hosts of the continent’s marquee netball event.

However, the thrilling on-court action at The MTC Dome took attention off the glitches and thrust the spotlight onto the stars while the organisers found their rhythm.

The host nation enjoyed a mixed bag of results. The Desert Jewels came from behind to overcome a spirited Lesotho 58-47 in their first match of the competition, while the Camelthorn’s tournament debut ended with a 97-38 defeat to South Africa in the men’s draw on Monday and 48-50 to Zambia’s Copper Kings yesterday.

Monday also delivered the first shock result of the competition, as Zimbabwe’s Gems stunned three-time African champions Uganda’s She Cranes 50-49.

Fellow favourites South Africa had no such troubles, recording statement wins in both the men and women’s sections.

“The opening day was magnificent,” Goagoses said when asked about the shortcomings.

“There were a few hiccups, it’s natural. We rectified it.

“It was actually our biggest test to see if we are able to host world class events. We are here to learn. We’re being advised by our stakeholders to ‘do this and not that next time’,” said Goagoses.

The MTC Dome, with two courts to allow for the men and women’s games to be played simultaneously, was a hive of activity with supporters packing the stands.

“We want to say thank you to the supporters who made it here. We cannot over-emphasise our appreciation as Netball Namibia. We can only say come in numbers again, come and watch and support your teams,” said Goagoses.

Jewels captain Anna Kasper says Monday’s victory was important to helps settle nerves and rise to the occasion of standing up to Africa’s best this week.

“I’m feeling great, it’s awesome. I’m so proud of my team, even though we didn’t start at the pace that we wanted. At least we managed to win the game,” says Kasper, who hopes for an improved showing in their upcoming matches.

“I just want the team to calm down and to stick to the game plan. For our supporters, we really appreciate you and come through to support the team for the remaining games.”