Tanzania is the second highest ranked in this competition after host Singapore. Taifa Queens earned their spot in the final with an impressive five out of five wins, including a 61--36 victory over Malaysia in the group stage.
A 2000--strong crowd watched the finals at the Toa Payoh Sports Hall as Malaysia stepped up their game in the finals, but Taifa Queens held on just enough for a close 45--38, to take the gold medal.
Following the victory, Taifa Queens are waiting to climb up a ladder in the new IFNA ranking since the event was part of the event which counts in the world ranking. Currently Tanzania stands at 19th position in the world ranking. Taifa Queens's Malawian coach, Mary Waya who just took the team in two-month was joyous saying; the players worked an extra mile and made Tanzanians proud.
Waya remained the cool character that she's been all week when assessing the match. She said, "I am thankful we have won the game. I said the other day, we just want points and the margin doesn't matter so we're home and dry.
"It was a nice game but I am happy that we finished the tournament with all 12 points and the ladies needs a pat on their back as they did a great job," said Waya.
Namibia finished second with six points like Malaysia, Singapore and Sri Lanka but with goal aggregates advantage. Ireland stands at the tail in the league today after having not won a single match in all her six outings. In the play--off for third place, Namibia upstaged the higher--ranked Sri Lankan team which led the first two quarters.
Namibia were in control from the second half to clinch a 76--71 win. Host Singapore ended in 5th spot, after a 45--31 victory over the Republic of Ireland. The Irish, making a debut at the tournament, conceded their 6th consecutive defeat.
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