Net Navigators working on team chemistry as KHF league takes shape

Net Navigators' skipper Rose Achieng beleives the sides performance in the Kenya Handball Federation (KHF) women's league will get better once the team works on its training schedule challenges. 

The side is currently fourth on the ten-team log after six matches, winning half of those for six points. 

On the weekend, the Randy Ochieng-coached side picked their third victory of the league, a 36-14 win over New Hope before falling to holders Nairobi Water Queens 40-18 and playing for another 28-23 loss in closely contested match against National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB). 

"I can blame jitters for the loss to the top two teams. Our third loss came against another top side, Ulinzi Sharks. We, however, picked positives from the two losses, top of the list being our improved attack," said Achieng. 

The side that draws its members from Nairobi, Kisumu and Kakamega only gets to train together for a day or two ahead of their league matches, something Achieng admits has affected their performance. 

"We have many new players who are spread across different parts. We only meet twice when we have matches and that leaves little time to bond as a team and get to learn each others game, style of play and have some team chemistry.

Handball: Nairobi Water drown Net Navigators to continue unbeaten run

We rely mostly on individual brilliance on the court, which is not enough to beat the more organised sides. We need to work on our rythm if we are to become a force to reckon with in the league," added Achieng. 

Holders Nairobi Water Queens lead the standings at 14 points after a seven-match unbeaten run with the millers in second place at 12 points from seven matches, having lost once. 

The other women's side yet to test defeat is Sharks who have played five matches for ten points. The soldiers will, this weekend face their first tough test of the season when they take on the holders in a Saturday 10 September thriller.