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Sports Reporter
THE Sables have turned their focus to the final of Africa Cup against Algeria in Kampala on Sunday with captain Hilton Mudariki praising the team’s coaching staff.
The Zimbabwe senior rugby team have been enjoying a resurgence at the tournament which was highlighted by their stunning 32-10 win over bitter rivals Namibia in the semi-final on Wednesday.
It was the Sables first win over the Namibians, who have dominated this tournament, in 23 years.
Mudariki paid tribute to their coaching staff, led by Piet Benade.
“We also have an excellent coaching set-up, which encourages us to express ourselves,” the skipper said.
“We have quality guys, mixed with youth and experience.
“Everyone wants to play in the final, and we are blessed to have reached it.
“We now have hard work to do because Algeria is a quality side.”
Mudariki said defeating their old rivals was very special.
“I have been in the system for almost 11 years, and the Namibians have always been dominant.”
Namibian captain Danco Burger said they made mistakes.
“We made ball, handling mistakes. We didn’t underestimate Zimbabwe.
“We knew how physical and skilful they are.
“It’s a tough loss, and we need to go back and make introspection, and come back better,” he said.
Rugby Afrique, on their website, said the Sables win was “almost faultless,” in a glowing tribute to the Zimbabweans.
“Zimbabwe outclassed their old rivals and the continent’s dominant nation outside South Africa — Namibia — the Sables’ 32-10 win being almost faultless.
“The Zimbabweans showed that when your top players turn up at the same time, it’s hard to stop you.
“The explosive fullback Tapiwa Mafura, a winner of two Currie Cup titles in South Africa, oozed class throughout.
“Same as the flyhalf Ian Prior, a former Australia Under-20 star, who controlled the game superbly for the Zimbabwe and displayed admirable game management.
“Then the likes of the centre-pairing of Kudzai Mashawi and Brandon Mudzekenyedzi were also solid.
“Zimbabwe are enjoying the expertise of former Springboks assistant coach Gert Smal, a consultant for the team.
“They played their best rugby in years, standards they are capable of reproducing consistently.”
Online Reporter