Let us rally behind our troops - John Heynes

Rugby
Dethroned champions Namibia will tackle Kenya in their final match at the Rugby Africa Cup
Otis Daniels
  • 1 Month Ago
The Welwitschias came under heavy criticism by friend and foe alike after a lacklustre performance in their Rugby Africa Cup semi-final game against Zimbabwe in Uganda on Wednesday.

John Heynes, the CEO of the Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) defended the team and called on fans and the country at large, to support the players. “Let us rally behind our troops. They need our support now more than ever. Fans want results and this will eventually come if we allow room for growth and improvement,” Heynes said in response to the 32-10 defeat Namibia suffered at the hands of Zimbabwe.

The first win by Zimbabwe against Namibia in two decades resulted in Namibia being dethroned as the defending champions. “The outcome was disappointing and not what Namibian fans wanted. We should however keep the big picture in mind. We are taking stock and rebuilding our team. This process, which allows local players to represent their country, needs to start somewhere and can be very frustrating,” said Heynes.

He reminded fans that Namibian rugby players risk their lives and careers to represent the country.

“The players know that all eyes are on them and will not deliberately make mistakes. We did not have a good game. Let us allow the coach to do his job, the players to play and keep in mind that the Rugby World Cup Qualifying competition will only take place in 2025.”

Algeria (ranked 64th) will face Zimbabwe (ranked 30th) in the final of the 2024 Rugby Africa Cup while Namibia (ranked 24th) will take on Kenya (ranked 34th) for the bronze medal on Sunday.

Heynes urged the players doing duty in Uganda to rise to the occasion, rally together, and make their nation proud. “Show determination, resilience, and cohesion as a team to overcome the challenges that lie ahead. Your dedication, perseverance, and commitment will be tested. It is in these moments that champions are forged. Give it your all, trust in your abilities, and play with unwavering intensity. The time is now to showcase your skill, determination, and hunger for success.”