Defending champions Blue Eagles Sisters held their nerve in a tense battle with Tigresses to secure a 45-43 victory in a week-three FDH Premier Netball League match at Blantyre Sports Arena on Saturday.
The two sides refused to give each other room to settle, trading goals throughout the match before Blue Eagles Sisters eventually edged ahead to claim the crucial points.
The intensity was evident from the second quarter, which ended 23-23, leaving the contest finely poised as both teams continued to push for an advantage.
Blue Eagles Sisters coach Madano Tepetheya praised his players for refusing to give up after falling behind early in the match.
“The girls did not give up although we were far behind at the beginning of the game. There are other girls we have promoted and need more games to adapt. The goal is to get six points after Sunday’s game,” he said.
Tigresses coach Peace Chawinga felt her side competed well but identified fitness as an area that contributed to the narrow defeat.
“The team is not playing properly because of lack of continuous training. I am happy that they competed very well and they are listening to instructions,” she said.
Earlier, Blue Eagles Sisters, who are based in Lilongwe, registered another convincing win after beating Blantyre-based Pacers 59-30.
Kukoma Diamonds also enjoyed a strong outing, defeating Lionesses 62-37, while Lionesses recovered to beat Giants 65-40 at the same venue.