Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga ellina.mhlanga @Zimpapers.co.zw
ZIMBABWE stayed on course at the International Handball Federation Trophy Zone VI, with the Under-20 and Under-18 teams winning their games against Namibia and Eswatini, respectively yesterday.
The tournament entered day two with Zimbabwe’s Under-20 beating Namibia 47-18 in their second group A game at the Olympic Youth Development Centre in Lusaka, Zambia.
It was the same story for the Under-18s as they outclassed Eswatini 41-7 to register their second victory in group B.
Going into yesterday’s match, Zimbabwe’s Under-18 side had overpowered Malawi 59-20, to get their campaign underway at the regional event on a positive note.
And they proved their win against Malawi was not a fluke when powering to another big win yesterday.
Coach Farai Mukundu had expressed concern on their defence after the Malawi game.
But his charges appeared to have adjusted quickly, as he noted there was improvement on the defence, and goalkeeper Emmanuel Sibanda rose to the occasion as Zimbabwe ensured they contained their opponents.
Sibanda’s performance earned him Player of the Match.
“There was a great improvement in the team’s play and the boys were really working very hard throughout the game.
“There was a lot of improvement in the defence because we only let in a few goals.
“The key moment was the goalkeeper being so good such that he got the Player of the Match.
“It was a good match but we just wanted it more,” said Mukundu.
Zimbabwe face South Africa in their last group game today.
“We just want to focus on getting a win tomorrow. The team has qualified for the next round,” added Mukundu.
It was another good show from the Under-20 who beat South Africa on Tuesday, picking up from where they left to overcome Namibia 47-18.
Under-20 coach Tafadzwa Madure is confident they are on course to book their place in the semi-finals.
“Performance was better compared to yesterday. We had a lot of energy and did well on defence.
“We did a good job today. I think mentally, the boys are in it to win it
“We are all happy about the results, and we still need to focus. I am proud of the boys,” Madure said.
They take on Lesotho today, and Zimbabwe is looking for a win to seal a spot in the semi-finals.
“Tomorrow we play Lesotho. As it stands on the table we need a win, at the same time making them (players) rest for the semis to avoid burnout,” said Madure.
The five-day event is running until Saturday with eight countries battling it out for honours in both the Under-20 and Under-18 age groups.
It is not just about the titles but also about qualifying for the Continental Phase.
Sidumisile Mabena