Thunder Queens die fighting
After forfeiting points for four games, Thunder Queens formerly MTL Queens made a bold return to the court when they nearly frustrated Diamonds in the OG Issa Southern Region Netball League.
However, despite their impressive form in the second quarter they still lost 41-22 at Blantyre Youth Centre on Saturday.
Diamonds had appeared to be heading for an easy win when they led the first quarter 14-5 with shooter Grace Chazungulira and goal attacker Jessica Mazengera combining beautifully to inspire the side to take the lead.
Thunder started terrorizing Diamonds at will with shooters Sherratie Kaiche and Chikumbutso Banda giving defenders Carol Mtukule-Ngwira and Towera Vinkhumbo- Nyirenda a torrid time.
At centre court Martha Dambo of Thunder also enjoyed her new role well as she evenly battled against Diamonds’ Shira Kapasula Dimba.
In defence Joanna Kachilika, Sell a Makhwawa and Esther Kaira were also outstanding and at some point Thunders managed to reduce the margin to just two baskets after restricting Diamonds shooters.
However, despite their efforts which saw them trail Diamonds by 14-16, Thunder let Diamonds increase the lead at half time 22-15.
The third quarter saw Diamonds stretching the lead to 31-19.
Thunder general secretary Christina Nsinji said it was a difficult game but they were now catching up.
“We are training our players to play in different positions and we will soon catch up with the rest of our colleagues,” she said.
Diamonds assistant coach Noel Mussa said it was an important win in their pursuit for the championship.
In other matches played earlier on Thunder beat Gold Sisters 58-19 while Complex Tigresses beat Shizaella 80- 14. Tigresses also humbled Chilomoni Sisters 108-6.
Diamonds also beat Gerald Tasaukadala Sisters 111-4.
Meanwhile, Diamonds are topping the table with 54 points from 19 games while holders Tigresses are second with 49 points from 17 games. Prison Sisters who had been leading for the better of the season have dropped to third with 51 points from 20 games.
Thunder have moved from position eight sixth after collecting 27 points from 19 games.
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