Khomas cruise into semis

KHOMAS became the first team to reach the netball semi-finals in The Namibian Newspaper Cup on Saturday morning, following an emphatic 40-8 victory over Kavango West at the Oshakati Independence Stadium.

After seeing off title holders Erongo 28-21 and traditional rivals Otjozondjupa by the same score with relative ease on the opening day, Khomas are on a five-match winning streak, which has propelled them to favourites for honours.

Earlier today, they beat //Kharas 36-7, and dominated Ohangwena 43-15 in their second match of the tournament on Friday afternoon.

After coming up short previously, Khomas are managing expectations, says team captain Louis van der Westhuyzen.

“Out match was great. We played exceptional and structured netball. It was fun and I give credit to the other team also for a good game that’s why their player got the player of the match award,” she said.

Khomas have shown great depth at the tournament. The quality and level of intensity has not altered their course despite having to chop and change the team to keep up with the loaded schedule.

They played three matches between 08h00 and 13h00 today, with the last of those ending in a resounding 42-14 victory.

“We’re really excited. I’m just appreciative that we can play the semis and hopefully we can bring back the cup for Khomas. We just want to do our best in the semi-finals and reach the finals, and place first.

“There’s a bit of pressure because many people want us to win but we just do our best, have fun and that’s why we win every time. We trust each other as a team and we play great netball.”

Also unbeaten after four matches, host region Oshana are hoping to join Khomas in the semis following a 29-16 success over Zambezi at noon.

Similarly, Otjozondjupa, who have three pool matches left to play, kept their semi-final hopes alive with a 31-11 win over Ohangwena.

Along with Oshana, Omusati and Erongo are in the running for semi-final berths should results go their way after two more contest each. Erongo defeated Kavango West 33-7 to strengthen their push for a final four place.