The SPAR Proteas and Vitality Roses went head-to-head in a nail-biting match-up in the first leg of the Vitality Netball series on Tuesday.
Although the Spar Proteas ultimately lost 51 -54 to England, they put in a good fight.
The two teams gave a thrilling performance in the first and second quarters, with England breaking the ice by scoring first and taking the lead, with the Spar Proteas trying to catch up and refusing backing down.
South Africa made one change in the second quarter with the introduction of Kamogelo Maseko at Goal Attack in place of Nichole Taljaard.
The Spar Proteas came out all guns blazing in the third quarter of the match, challenging England at every chance they got.
England’s Jess Thirlby made some changes which ended up working very well in South Africa’s favour. Coach Plummer made one forced change when Phumza Maweni limped off, replacing her with Nicola Smith at the back, who played very well with Karla Pretorius. South Africa ultimately took the championship quarter 14 – 13, with an overall score 43 – 36.
🏴🆚🇿🇦
— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) December 5, 2023
𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗲𝘀𝘁
Oh so close! What an inspiring second half - we remain relentless in building, learning, and growing stronger. 👏🔥
Thank you South Africa, win or lose - Forever United As One. 🙏#SPARProteas
📸 Morgan Harlow pic.twitter.com/lDQPVqonSw
More changes were made in the fourth and final quarter, with skipper Bongiwe Msomi and Khanyisa Chawane being replaced with Jeante Strydom and Refiloe Nketsa.
The Spar Proteas also won the fourth quarter of the match with 15-11, reducing the scoreline to just three points, however, England ultimately won the match 54-51.
Spar Proteas Head Coach Norma Plummer said they had a rocky start which made it very hard for the team.
“It was very nervy for us, and we couldn’t pass the ball high enough and played to England’s strength. We came back and eventually got it right. Some of the mistakes we spoke to the girls about in training, they had to see if for themselves now on court – I believe that they will be better and do better next time we take to court. Overall, I am impressed with how we played especially in the second half. I think we will produce some big players from this group soon.”
The two teams will go head-to-head again on Saturday 9 December and Sunday 10 December in Nottingham.
