Kenya's national netball team, The Divas, reignited their UAE netball tournament campaign spectacularly on Tuesday with a commanding 66–25 win over the United States, keeping their hopes of reaching the finals alive.
Bouncing back from two narrow defeats, 41–33 to Namibia and a heartbreaking 42–40 loss to Singapore, the Divas stormed into the match with a renewed sense of urgency. From the opening whistle, the Divas put out a valiant display.
The attacking pair of Delilah Akinyi and Hellen Sinoya tore through the American defence, propelling the Divas to a 17–3 lead by the end of the first quarter.
Despite losing Akinyi early in the second quarter to injury, substitute Lucy Akumu slotted in seamlessly, keeping the scoring tempo high. By halftime, Kenya had built a commanding 34–9 lead, their speed and slick passing proving too much for the US to contain.
Coach Mugisha Ali was forced into further tactical adjustments after wing attack Elsa Ndong picked up a knock. Vida Adhiambo came on to steady the ship, while Mary Onyango took over centre duties from Irine Atieno.
Unfazed by the injuries, the Divas extended their dominance, closing the third quarter 54–17 before wrapping up one of their most emphatic victories of the tournament. The final quarter was no different, with Kenya sealing the game 66–25.
“We lost two key players, but the bench was outstanding,” coach Ali said post-match.
“It was a physical game, but our defensive structure held firm, and our attackers executed perfectly. We are still in contention for the finals.”
Kenya’s route to the final remains open, though the team’s fate partly rests on results elsewhere. They must win their remaining group matches against hosts UAE and Ireland and hope the UAE also edges Singapore to clear their path to the title clash.
Otherwise, a third-place playoff beckons. Goal attacker Hellen Sinoya, who led from the front with precision shooting, attributed the turnaround to better decision-making and mental sharpness.
“We were more focused today and minimised our mistakes. This is what we have been working towards. The belief in the camp is growing.”
