Kukoma Diamonds Coach Noel Mussa has said the team is determined to build on its Southern Region dominance and challenge for the One Nico Top 12 Netball Cup national crown after beating Tigresses 51-46 in the regional play-off final at Blantyre Sports Arena on Sunday.

“I am proud of the girls. They played with their lungs out and stuck to the game plan. Now we should be aiming for the national crown,” Mussa said.

Despite the defeat, Tigresses Coach Peace Kalua commended her players for their fighting spirit.

Kukoma Diamonds’ Miranda Muliya was named Best Defender while teammate Princess Banda received the Best Centre award.

The One Nico Top 12 Netball Cup is backed by a K1 billion sponsorship package from Nico Group spread over three years, with K75 million committed to the tournament this year.

Nico Group Corporate Affairs Manager Mbumba Mlia-Ndasauka said the tournament provided a platform to inspire young girls and develop netball talent in Malawi.

Netball Association of Malawi President Vitumbiko Gubuduza hailed the quality of talent displayed during the play-offs.