23 May 2017

Botswana netball Under 21 team are the #ReaBaTsaa Spar Netball tournament after beating the strong men’s team 51-55 in a final game played at BONA courts on Sunday.

From the first quarter, the men’s team showed a lot of intention of winning the game, as they denied the girls more room to manoeuvre and they finished the quarter seating on the driving seat with the score board reading 8-11.

In the second quarter, the Under 21 came with guns blazing with their goalkeeper, Maipelo Mosotho and Fatima Dino gelling very well, and they managed to close the gap as the second quarter ended with 21-19.

The girls coach, Setshedi Botlhole-Mmopi introduced goal poacher, Boikanyo Selogetso and captain Kgomotso Matibini who completely changed the complexion of the game, with Matibini executing her roles very well, and goal attacker Boikanyo making life difficult for the men as she demonstrated her good strong passing and shooting skills.

The third quarter ended with the score board reading 28-35 in favour of the Under 21, however in the last quarter, the men’s team came back very strong with their players, Given Mlazi, Donald Kebadireleng, Kagiso Phoko and Larona Matlhaga giving the girls a run for their money and it ended 44-44 forcing the game to go to an extra time.

However, it was the girls who managed to seal the victory with a slim margin of one goal, as the game ended with Men’s 48-49 Under 21.

Coach Botlhole-Mmopi said the game was very intense and she was happy that they won against the men’s team which had been tormenting other teams as it would give the girls confidence ahead of their Australia training camp.

She said the men’s team gave them the much needed match practice because they have speed, strength and good elevation.

“I am glad that at the end of the fourth quarter it was a draw and we fought back, I am happy because I think it helps us learn that we need to fight and stay focused, “she said.

Furthermore, she said the #ReaBaTsaa Spar Netball tournament had helped her to identify her team’s weaknesses and strength, adding that the tournament came at the right time given that as a technical team they had been worried as to how they were going to prepare but the tournament, she said had made a big difference.

Men’s team coach, Onkabetse Kesekang said his game plan was to win but that was not to be because his mid court was not functioning well during the game.
said that was where they lost a lot of balls, in the event failing to supply their goal scorers adding that all in all he was happy that they managed to give the Under 21 the match needed practice.

During individual awards, Boikanyo Selogotso won the best shooter award, Kgomotso Matibini got the best defender award and the best mid court went to Maungo Simone both from U21 team.

Meanwhile, BDF Cats won bronze medal after beating Notwane 54-43 in a bronze medal match still played at BONA courts on Sunday. ENDS