Railstars coach praises Zina

In an interview yesterday, the Railstars mentor was full of praise for the netball mother body for running the national league         smoothly.

“I think the netball mother body managed to run the league in a professional manner. Personally I am satisfied with how the 2012 season was run, and I hope they will continue with this professionalism next season,” said the Railstars coach.

The former netball champions were dethroned two weeks ago when Nehanda Nyakasikana of Harare won the league title. Railstars have been the dominant force in netball for the past two seasons. They won back-to-back titles in 2010 and 2011 before their iron grip on the title was broken by Nehanda this season.

“Nehanda deserve the title because they played good netball throughout the season. They were a cut above the rest and we lost all  the two games we played against them,” said Phiri.

Railstars and Nehanda have been involved in some exciting netball duels in recent years. In 2009 Nehanda pipped Railstars to the title on goal difference after the two teams had been tied on points. But for the past two seasons Railstars got their act together by stamping their authority in the national league.

Raistars wrapped up their season three weeks ago when they played two games against Stanbic Queens in Harare. Njanji managed to win both points from the bankers after winning the two games.

Asked if he was bitter after surrendering the title to Nehanda, the Railstars coach was both diplomatic and humble.

“Honestly 2012 was not our year as it belonged to Nehanda.

“Sometimes you win some and lose some but come next season we will definitely challenge for honours,” said Phiri.

The Railstars coach singled out his captain Perpetua Siachitema, Linda Moyo and Zanele Ngwenyama as outstanding for the team this season.

“Although we play as a team, however Siachitema, Moyo and Ngwenyama played their hearts out for the team.

“Next season we will try to acquire a few quality players to bolster our squad,” said the Railstars mentor.

Asked about his plans during the off-season, Phiri said he was taking a break from all netball activities.

“’I am taking a break and may be travel to Malawi where I will spend at least two weeks with family and friends,’” said Phiri.