THE battle for inaugural MTC Namibia Netball Premier League supremacy will go down to the wire in Windhoek tomorrow.
Three clubs, led by table toppers the Namibian Correctional Services, are still in the running for honours. The law enforcers face second-placed Tigers in a straight shootout for the crown in the final contest of the day..
Mighty Gunners, level on 18 points with Tigers and one off NCS, have the easier task of the trio as they face already relegated and demoralised United 12 in tomorrow’s penultimate action.
Still undefeated after 10 rounds, the NCS needs only a point to secure the premiership title. The saw off Young Stars 64-24 on Saturday to retain top spot.
“We are glad we are now here on the brink of winning the title. When the league began, we did not think we would be this good, but fortunately, our belief and persistence is paying off,” NCS sports officer Absolom Mushaandja said earlier this week.
The mission for Tigers, who until a few weeks ago lead the standings, is simple: win the game and you capture the title. Anything else will not suffice.
Gunners need the top two to draw while racking up a significant basket total against United 12 to stand a chance at snatching honours from their rivals.
The league hierarchy is contend with how their debut offering unfolded.
“We are indeed nearing the end of the MTC Netball Premiership programme and are excited that we could conclude it despite all the challenges, amongst all COVID-19,” said Netball Namibian vice president and marketing head Rebekka Goagoses
“The last round is definitely a league winning round. It’s going to be lit,” she continued.
“We are looking forward to the crowning of the champion of the first ever MTC Netball Premiership in Namibian netball.
“These are exciting times indeed for netball and all its stakeholders. We cannot overemphasise our happiness and gratefulness to MTC for making this happen.”
The automatic relegation has already been confirmed, with Dollar Stars, Golden Girls and Rundu all going down along with United 12.
Dollar Stars in ninth spot have accrued just four points, the same tally as Golden Girls. United, who also face the Navy in tomorrow’s opening fixture, have two points and Rundu have none.
Promotion will take place at a date to be announced soon, Goagoses said.
“The active regional leagues are in the conclusion phase of their leagues and from the winners of the respective leagues the playoffs will take place to vie for the four spots left vacant caused by the relegation,” she said.
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