The Baby Spar Proteas have started their journey to the Netball World Youth Cup 2025 qualifiers Africa on a winning streak after clinching their fourth consecutive victory at the University of Pretoria on Tuesday.
The girls beat Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe on Sunday and Monday respectively, before thrashing Kenya 70-16 in Tuesday’s thrilling encounter.
The Baby Spar Proteas came in guns-blazing in the first quarter of the match against Kenya, ultimately taking the lead. They maintained their lead in all four quarters of the match as Kenya missed several chances while committing minor mistakes, giving way for the Baby Spar Proteas to seal victory.
SA goal scorer Giada Prinsloo was named the Player of the Match after an impressive display when proving a constant thorn in the side of the opponents.
Speaking to SABC Sports, Baby Proteas captain Phophi Nematangari said it felt amazing to win as they had put in the hard work, and it showed.
Former Proteas player Phumza Maweni, who is also the new assistant coach for the under-21 national team confidently stated that she had bold plans to elevate the team to the next level.
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— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) March 19, 2024
Netball World Youth Cup 2025 Qualifiers Africa 🌍
UNSTOPPABLE! 💪 The SPAR Baby Proteas make it four from four at the Africa Qualifiers! 👏#SPARBabyProteas | #SAU21 | #TogetherWeRise | #NWYC2025GIB pic.twitter.com/BzgUsMw9Zb
Speaking on what seemed to be an effortless win against Kenya, Baby Spar Proteas coach Precious Mthembu said she was disappointed about her team’s performance in the last two quarters.
“The team seemed to ease off in intensity during the final two quarters. The girls struggled in the third quarter; I think it’s the back to back games. The third quarter is the championship quarter, I will look at where the shooters are mentally,” said Mthembu.
The Baby Spar Proteas are set to go up against Malawi on Wednesday.
