adminMaria Chiguvari
A POOR performance in the first quarter proved costly for the Gems against favourites, South Africa, in the Netball World Cup 2023 Regional Qualifiers Africa in Cape Town, South Africa.
The Gems lost the dead rubber 47-68.
The game exposed the Zimbabweans shortcomings, which need to be addressed, ahead of their semi-final battle.
They seemed intimidated by their fitter, sharper and more focused hosts, who took a stranglehold on the match in the first quarter.
South Africa attacked the Gems from the very first whistle and quickly raced to an 18-9 lead.
Zimbabwe never recovered from the aggressive attack, and struggled to find a way into the shooting circle.
And, on the occasions that they made it into the shooting circle, nerves seemed to get the better of the two shooters, as they missed the ring.
The big South Africans were all over the court, making it hard for the Gems to find each other.
They were forced into committing mistakes, which South Africa took advantage of, to maintain their 100 percent record in the tournament.
Gems’ coach Ropafadzo Mutsauki said although there was no good loss, the team did well.
“I need to encourage my team. I think it was a win for us, also.
“I am happy that we managed to try all combinations.
“We are now looking forward to our next game,” Mutsauki said.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter