malvernmugadzikwa
Tadious Manyepo
Zimpapers Sports Hub
Gems coach Ropafadzo Mutsauki has said Zimbabwe needs to concentrate when they play hosts Namibia in their final group game of the ongoing African Netball Championships.
The Gems can advance to the semi-finals as group winners if they make it past Namibia in the match that kicks-off at 6pm.
A positive result will also see them avoid favourites South Africa in the last four tomorrow.
But that is not what Mutsauki is focusing on as he knows Namibia can derail their aspirations.
“All we are looking for at the moment is playing the way we have always done and be able to beat Namibia,” said Mutsauki.
“Namibia is a very good team that is capable of beating anyone in this tournament, including us. So we are not looking beyond that match as we should also pass that 60-minute test for us to be in a position to talk about the semi-finals,” said Mutsauki.
“Look, Namibia have always shown that they are a team with a lot of intention and ambition. They will always come at you in full force and try to make things happen.
“But I am glad the girls had some rest today (yesterday) and they are willing to go at it. The team is well-motivated and willing to showcase themselves while being competitive. This is the spirit we have always talked about and it is helping us in a huge way.
“Namibia are the hosts and they will have a lot of support from all in the dome. We need to be focused on the game and be willing to express ourselves while also trying to be compact.”
Zimbabwe are playing well in the meet and they have already clipped two victories in Pool B, first beating one of the tournament favourites Uganda 50-49 on Sunday before they followed that up with a massive 78-20 win over Eswatini on Tuesday.
They will be hoping to emulate the same indomitable form from Tuesday’s victory in today’s game.
“That is the aim. If we go at it the same way we did in our opening two games, we will give ourselves a huge chance to win the game. We will see how best to go about it but obviously, we need the same desire and enthusiasm,” added Mutsauki.
“We are ready for it and we hope to do well and book our place in the semi-final in style.
Pool A has South Africa, Malawi, Kenya and Zambia, with South Africa being the favourites to win it.
Online Reporter