LEFA SIBANDA TRIPS OVER A NET IN THE FINALS
BY:Kabelo Seleka
GABORONE:Botswana’s tennis sensational and top attraction Lefa Sibanda tripped over a net in the quarterfinals on day 2 of the ongoing African Nations Cup 2018 against 20 year old Morrocco’s tennis upcoming master-minder artist Kilani Yassir hosted in Gaborone,Botswana.
Lefa Sibanda,Botswana’s vice captain came into the quarter finals of the tourney walking over by a BYE.His counter part Kilani also did pass to the same stage by a BYE.On the first game,both artist were fairly matched as Lefa could handle strong shots from Kilani,nonetheless Kilani notably won the first three games of the four.
A quick combination of cross courts and strong forehands were in practical mode for the Moroccan.Windy day also worked in favor of Kilani as many of Lefa’s ball lost direction in some games,specifically the first four.
Lefa Sibanda only depended on downing the line throughout the games which costed himfew dollars on the table.Awakening the beast mode in him Lefa almost made a perfect comeback to settle the score on 3-3,however Kilani had other plans to finish the set in total 6-3.In the second half of the match,Lefa Sibanda showed signs of fatigue,only for Kilani to roundup the hapless local boy 6-0 to win the match by 6-3 6-0 in total.
Kilani says Lefa is a tough competitor.”it was a tough match it was not easy…I knew Sibanda is a good player,I was feeling stressed at first.” Kilani who could not hide his excitement noted.
For his part Lefa’s post match reaction says he felt so fatigue because of lack of adequate games to compete in especially in the second half of the match.Lefa was optimistic about making a comeback in team match and doubles with his partner in crime Captain Aobakwe Madikwe.
“…obviously not having playing many competition’s this year you can practice the skill but when it comes to a point when its tough in a match,those who have not been doing it that much start to crumble a bit,flaws and maybe a bit of fatigue”said Lefa.
Other notable figures in team Botswana who are out is Tsholofelo Tsiang,Bayani Moilwa,Emamanuel Mabechu,Anele Maplanka,Thato Madikwe and Bonolo Molefe among others. Kilani advanced to the semi finals where will will lock horn with his countryman Fatter Anas.
As the continental tourney continues today till the 10th of this month,arguably fair enough hopes of team Botswana are pinned solely on the Captain Aobakwe Lekang to work out magic of things he is better known for.
