Baobabs and Lillies anticipate second league round
Sport and recreation manager Mantlako Sebaka say to host the Telkom Netball League was a huge matter for them.
MOKOPANE – The Limpopo netball team, the Baobabs, salvaged a 65-37 victory against Kingdom Queens in the first round of the Telkom Netball League held at Ngoako Ramahlodi Sports Complex on May 1.
Bouyed by their home supporters, Boababs controlled the tempo of the match through their industrious players Modjadji Ramorwalo, Muhluri Hlatshwayo and Marichelle Visagie who converted for the home team in all four stanzas of the match.
Another provincial team that were making a debut in the league, the Lillies lost their first professional match at the hands of Mpumalanga Sunbirds with a score of 61-25.
The team will be hoping for a better performance in the second round of the league set for Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria on June 2.
Baobabs coach, Emily Mathosa said she was impressed with the team’s performance on the day.
“Some of the girls were playing in the league for the first time. They settled in well throughout the tournament and I believe going forward we will get more positive results.”
Rose Mamabolo, the chairperson of the Capricorn District Netball Association said despite losing their matches, the Lillies will do well in their next round of the league.
“This is the team’s first time in the league, and it is also a fairly new team, having only formed a few months ago. But we believe girls will improve over time.”
She thanked Netball South Africa for bringing the matches to this district.
“The people of Seshego and surrounding communities came to support the event. The complex was packed and we showed the country that we are capable of hosting such events.”
Christina Shikwambana, the president of the Limpopo Netball Association said they wished all the teams well in their next league matches. “The Lillies have a chance of redeeming themselves in the second round of the league. There are good players in the team and they will improve as the league progresses.”
She thanked the volunteers and technical officials who worked hard to ensure the smooth running of the event.
“We thank the marshalls and volunteers who were eager to offer their assistance. We were great hosts. The crowd was amazing and everyone was excited to be part of the event.”
Mantlako Sebaka, the manager for sport and recreation at the Polokwane Municipality said the plan is to host most events this year and in 2024.
“To host the Telkom Netball League was a huge matter for us. Everything went well and it was a big success. We can confirm that we will be hosting eight matches of Super Sport United next season. The aim is to host more national and international events in the city.”
