Flag out, Friday through to last 8
ELANGENI – Mixed results as big guns crash out in 2024 ENDA President’s Cup. The Elangeni High School hall saw major upsets as some top names including Eswatini National Darts Association (ENDA) executive members failed to qualify for the next stage.
ENDA Public Relations Officer (PRO) Flag Nxumalo’s dream was short-lived as he was defeated by teammate Bafana Nkambule of Correctional A with 4-0.
Meanwhile, Ntokozo Makhanya also did not make the cut after Payi Vilakati of Elangeni Vipers thrashed him 4-2.
On the other hand, the oldest darts player Friday Mncina defied all odds and proceeded to the last eight after defeating Luke Matse 4-0.
It is worth noting that Mncina shone yesterday hitting 180 two times.
To score a 180, a player must throw all three darts into the triple 20 section of the dartboard, which is worth 60 points per dart.
SPONSORSHIP
It was earlier revealed that ENDA received E10 000 sponsorship from Theo Brands for this tournament.
The competition will take a hiatus of about one weekend due to the Easter holidays and is scheduled to continue on April 6, 2024.
Nxumalo commended yesterday’s level of play.
“The standards have improved, which shows that everyone wants to be a part of the national team. It shows we are ready to host. Gratitude goes to the sponsor who was able to assist us with the sponsorship package,” he said.
SINGLES LAST 8
1. Sifiso Simelane 2. Banele Mndzebele 3. Abraham Ndzinisa 4. Simon Maseko 5. Jethro Ndzingane 6. Payi Vilakati 7. Bafana Nkambule 8. Friday Mncina