South Africa entered the second and final day of the FAST5 Netball World Series with confidence after their victory against Jamaica on Saturday. Their first match of the day was against New Zealand.
In the initial quarter, South Africa dominated with excellent defense and precise shooting, leading 11 – 6 after six minutes of play. However, New Zealand came back stronger after the break, seizing control from the second quarter until the end. Despite South Africa’s continued efforts, it wasn’t enough to secure a victory, and the Silver Ferns ultimately won 41-33. Shannen Bartlett’s outstanding performance earned her the Player of the Match accolade.
The second match featured the SA FAST5 Men’s team against New Zealand. Although South Africa displayed high speed, unforced errors and communication issues among the players proved detrimental. While South Africa won the second and third quarters, they fell short in a closely contested match, losing 38-31 and missing the chance to debut in the final.
After the game, SA FAST5 Men’s team captain Vukile Zulu expressed, “We have learned a lot as a team. As under 23’s, this is great for us and for the future of Men’s netball in South Africa.”
South Africa faced Malawi in their second match, with the winner earning a spot in the bronze medal playoff against England. The first quarter was characterized by numerous unforced errors, resulting in a low score of 4-3 in favor of South Africa. The second quarter saw more intense competition, but Malawi’s Towera Vinkhumbo’s stellar performance earned her the Player of the Match award. South Africa won the match 37-31, securing a rematch against England for the bronze medal.
Jeanie Steyn reflected, “We came in here with the aim of being in the finals; however, this wasn’t our year. We set the standard last year and wanted to maintain it. We knew it wouldn’t be easy with a young team. This was good because we will build from here.”
In the final match against England, both teams played fiercely, but England emerged victorious with a score of 30-22, claiming the bronze medal. Martha Mosoahle-Samm expressed pride in the team’s performance and highlighted the growth of the game during the series.
