Uganda scored their first-ever victory over Wales in a World Cup when they beat them 73-56 in a Pool G encounter at the Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town. Wales have only won one game at the tournament.
The Uganda attack was excellent in driving the ball down the court to the circle where goal shooter Mary Cholhok was waiting. She’s been a stalwart for her team, and her play has greatly improved since participating in the Super League in the UK. She commanded the circle with nifty footwork and accurate shooting. Cholhok and goal-attack Irene Eyaru didn’t miss a single shot in the first 15 minutes.
Both teams came out with the same seven in the second quarter. Despite not entirely satisfied with his side’s defensive effort, Uganda coach Fred Mugerwa kept faith in Stella Nanfuka and Christine Nakitto as their work in the Wales circle kept them in the lead.
At times it got a bit physical with lots of bodies on the floor and time being stopped to sweep up the floor. Cholhok missed her first goal in the 19th minute of the match while Eyaru kept going with a flawless record. Cholhok continued to move around with ease, and the Welsh defenders had trouble keeping her out and from scoring.
Uganda made their first change just before halftime when Lilian Achola replaced Margret Baagala on centre. At 1.58 cm Achola is the shortest player at the World Cup. The She Cranes had a nine-goal (36-27) lead when the hooter sounded after the first two quarters.
Wales switched Ella Powell-Davies to goal defence and introduced Christina Shaw on goalkeeper in the third quarter in an effort to stem the flow of quality ball to Cholhok. It didn’t seem to bother the She Cranes star too much though as she continued with the business at hand – keeping her team in front.
At the other end of the court, Uganda defenders Nakitto and Falidah Kadondi, who replaced Nanfuka, didn’t give the Welsh shooters any breathing space. They restricted their movement and kept scoring opportunities to a minimum, grinding down their opponents.
Having done enough to help her team to a healthy lead, Cholhok remained on the Uganda bench at the start of the last 15 minutes with Viola Asingo replacing her under the post. Baagala also came back in the centre position.
Despite only two places separating them on the latest world rankings, Uganda (8) ultimately just had too much firepower for Wales (9).
Most Valuable Player: Shaffie Nalwanja (Uganda)
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