Skipper Ingotsi hails tournament as Starlets jet back

Harambee Starlets skipper Ruth Ingotsi has hailed the just ended Pink Ladies Cup in Turkey saying it is a good platform for players to gauge themselves and for exposure.

Ingotsi who plies her trade with Tanzania heavyweights Simba Queens was speaking on Friday morning after the Beldine Odemba coached side jetted back.

Starlets wound up their campaign with a 4-1 win against the Philippines on Wednesday evening at the Emirhan Stadium in Antalya, Turkey.

It was Starlets’ first win of the four-team tournament, following previous losses to Russia – who thrashed them 4-0 on Saturday as well as Chinese Taipei who defeated them by a solitary goal.

“It has been a good tournament and a good exposure also especially to us players who have been without action since last year. I think what we can improve on as a team is hitting the camp early enough even if there are not competitive matches.

“We should train for two or more months bring the togetherness and that will help us keep fit in case of any international friendly matches. I am also urging the federation in conjunction with the ministry of sports to organize such international tournament which will help us gain exposure and attract international clubs.”

Ingotsi sentiments were echoed by midfielder Elizabeth Wambui who also plays for Simba Queens in Tanzania.

“I can say we have learnt more as a team from the three teams we played against in Turkey. The more we get this opportunities, we sharpens our skills as we look forward to qualify for the world cup.”

The tournament was their first piece of action since their defeat to Botswana in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on December 5, last year.