Queens seal runners-up slot at Pent Series
Malawi Queens yesterday sealed a second-slot finish at the Pent Series in Windhoek, Namibia with the 55-34 victory over Kenya.
Uganda emerged winners of the six-team tournament after winning all their five matches, including a 59-43 victory over Malawi.
In yesterday’s match, once the Queens shrugged off some early lethargy in the first two quarters, they were in cruise control, attacking with flair and fervour.
They led 13-8 in the first quarter and were 25-15 up at half time.
With England-based shooter Joyce Mvula meshing potently with goal attacker Jane Chimaliro, the Queens engaged an extra gear in the third quarter in which they passed the ball around with remarkable grace and intelligence as the Kenyans chased their own shadows.
It was not surprising that at the end of this quarter the Queens were in the comfort zone with a 41-24 lead.
In the last quarter, Malawi continued to thrust brightly and at the final whisle, they extended their lead margin to 21 baskets.
Summarising her team’s performance at the tournament, Queens coach Peace Chawinga-Kaluwa said: “There are still some areas that we need to work on, but overall, I think we have done well.”
She cited needless loss of ball possession as one of the team’s shortfalls.
“It has also been taking us time to settle down. Like today it took us about 30 minutes to settle down which is not good,” said the Queens’ gaffer.
The coach also bemoaned the Queens’ only loss to Uganda, saying: “It is painful to lose, but overall, the girls have done well.”
Malawi will now shift their focus to the upcoming Africa Netball Championship which runs from November 9 to 16 in the same country.
“We have four days before the next tournament starts and we will use that period to work on our shortfalls,” she said.
Malawi won their first game 56-38 against Zimbabwe’s Gems. They lost their second to Uganda 43-59, then they recovered to beat hosts Namibia 64-43. Their fourth match was against Zambia, which they won 76-44.
