By Edwin Mbewe
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-In the 2023 MK40 million Salima Sugar National Netball League, both Blue Eagles and Young Eagles, sponsored by the Malawi Police Service, have managed to avoid facing each other in the semifinals.
The league is currently taking place at Don Bosco in Lilongwe, and the teams have entered the semifinals on a high note, displaying stunning performances.
Among the eight teams that qualified for the semifinals, all showcased exceptional netball skills, making their opponents work hard for their victories.
Two teams from the Central Region, Blue Eagles and Young Eagles, along with two from the Southern Region, Kukoma Diamonds and Tigresses, have progressed to the semifinals of this competitive tournament.
In the quarterfinals, Blue Eagles netball club defeated city rivals Civonets with a score of 42-30, Kukoma Diamonds outplayed MAFCO Soldiers with a score of 40-35, Tigresses had an impressive victory over Karonga with a score of 76-17, and Young Eagles secured a place in the semifinals by defeating Imosys 33-29 after extra time. The regulation time ended with a 25-25 draw.
During the group stages, Young Eagles emerged as the winners of pool A after defeating MAFCO 23-19, while Kukoma Diamonds topped pool B and were followed by Imosys.
Blue Eagles claimed the first position in pool C, with Karonga and First Choice Tigresses following in pool D.
Isaac Chimwala, the General Secretary of the Netball Association of Malawi (NAM), expressed his excitement at the level of competition displayed during the tournament’s opening day.
Chimwala mentioned that the games were intense, with unpredictable outcomes.
He particularly highlighted Young Eagles’ shocking victory over Imosys in the quarterfinals.
In the battle between the Blue Eagles and Civonets, the Police Women secured their spot in the semifinals with a narrow margin.
He encouraged people to attend the tournament at Don Bosco, as it provides a platform to witness top-tier Malawian netball talent.
The semifinals will see Blue Eagles netball team face off against Kukoma Diamonds in the first semifinal, while Young Eagles will take on Tigresses in the second semifinal at Don Bosco netball courts.
The winners of these semifinals will compete for the championship in the final.