10 Feb 2015

The seven-year-old rivalry between Notwane and BDF Cats Under 20 netball teams continued over the weekend (February 7-8) with the former winning by 16 goals margin.

Since its existence in 2008, Notwane Under 20 HIV/AIDS netball tournament’s tittle had always been battled for by the two teams. BDF won three times while Notwane won the tourney for the fourth time.

Despite games being played under very hot weather conditions that forced referees to time and again pause the game for water breaks, both the two teams came determined to sail to the finals.

The first quarter was characterised by speed and concentration from both sides ending with Notwane leading with 8 goals to BDF Cats’ 7. But the second quarter saw a twist, Notwane denying Cats to claw balls. Notwane’s wing attacker displayed skill and experience, driving balls home from every corner of the pitch. 

At the end, the score board stood at Notwane 20 and BDF Cats 9. BDF Cats’ well intended goal shooter was pulled out because the opponent’s goal keeper gave her a hard time, shining with her strength and skill. 

The change did not bear fruits on the Cats’ side and players displayed gloomy faces.  Notwane scored 13 goals while opponents hit the net only seven times. 

At the end, Notwane’s 43 goals to BDF Cats 27 earned the team gold medals. In an interview with BOPA, Notwane netball chairperson, Malebogo Mophalane said the tournament has experienced growth since its inception in 2008. 

The invitation to participate in the tournament was extended to all Botswana Netball Association affiliates and schools. This year, she said eight teams namely; Notwane, Lavida Academy, Merementsi CJSS, Kids Stars, BDF Cats, Jungle Queens, Jwaneng and Flying Hawks participated. 

Lavida and Kids Academy from Kanye were all newcomers to the tournament. She said improvement could also be gauged through players that have this year displayed mature play.

At the end, Ikgopoleng of BDF Cats was named the best defender, Amantle Fifie of Lavida was the best shooter, Tebatso Modubeki of Merementsi CJSS was the most disciplined, Bonno Mogatle of BDF Cats was the upcoming young player while best mid court award was scooped by Notwane’s Kagiso Mothuba. ENDS