Kenya's Divas eye bronze at UAE Netball Cup after win over Ireland

The national women’s netball team, Divas, continued their impressive form at the UAE Netball Cup with a third consecutive victory, defeating Ireland 52-42 to book a place in the third-place playoff—ironically against the same opponent.

The Kenyan Divas had a slow start, losing focus in defense during the first quarter with head coach Mugisha Ali forced to make an early tactical change, substituting goalkeeper Pauline Ramadhan with Teresia Othuon.

Despite the adjustment, Kenya lost the first quarter 12-16.

However, the tide turned in the second quarter as Kenya tightened their defense and gained momentum. The team went into halftime with a narrow 26-23 lead, showcasing improved coordination and transitions.

In the third quarter, Mugisha made another strategic switch, replacing the fatigued Delilah Akinyi, who had impressively scored 22 out of 22 attempts—with Hellen Sinoya. Sinoya partnered with the ever-reliable Dorine Akinyi in the attacking circle, and Kenya extended their lead to 38-35 by the end of the third quarter.

Ireland pushed hard in the final quarter, but the Kenyan defense, anchored by captain Paris Simiyu and the energetic wing attacker Elsa Ndong, held firm. Their resilience saw Kenya seal a commanding 52-42 win.

Dorine Akinyi was a standout performer, scoring 21 out of 23 attempts (91%), while Hellen Sinoya added 9 goals from 11 attempts (82%).

"Defensively, we were very strong, and of course we have good endurance," said Hellen Sinoya after the match. "We are just working on our mental toughness as we approach each game. When we arrived here, our aim was to get on the podium, and we're glad to be playing for bronze on Saturday."

Wing attacker Elsa Ndong, who has played every minute of the tournament so far, praised her team's defensive mindset: “The teams are good, but we’re banking on our strong defense, that’s what has kept us going.”

In the day’s other match, Namibia thrashed the USA 66-30 to book a spot in the final against Singapore.

Paris Simiyu (Captain), Hellen Sinoya, Pauline Ramadhan, Vida Adhiambo, Teresa Othuon, Irine Atieno, Mary Atieno, Elsa Ndong, Lucy Akumu, Dorine Akinyi, Nelly Mohammed, Winfred Oyugi, Cynthia Milanya, Delilah Akinyi, Vidah Adhiambo.