By Eugene Majuru.
(News of The South) – South Africa came out powerful on Saturday’s encounter when they managed to scare off netball World champions New Zealand in a game which ended New Zealand 48 South Africa 41.
South Africa who showed they meant serious business took the lead in the first quarter however Silver Ferns of New Zealand overtook South Africa till they finally won the game.
This was South Africa’s best game of the tournament so far. The Proteas defence was tight and pushed New Zealand all the way. An injury hit New Zealand was relieved to walk away with the narrow win. New Zeakand were not very clinical and were leading 27 : 20 by half time.
New Zealand’s defender Michaela Sokolich-Beatson ruptured her Achilles tendon before the first game and shooter Bailey Mes ruled out for the second straight match with a knee niggle.
Super defender Jane Watson also being managed for a long-term ankle issue, coach Noeline Taurua managed to play around with the healthy players.
Impressive in South Africa’s defence were
Karla Pretorius and Phumza Maweni making their presence felt defensively. With 4 minutes remaining to end of the 3rd quarter South Africa were level at 31 :31.
Both teams made several errors with South Africa missing several shooting opportunities when the ball failed to enter the ring. Silver Ferns shooting was equally off target.
New Zealand’s player of the tournament, Goal shooter Maia Wilson, converted 10 from 11 in the first term and was fed regular passes by captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio, Gina Crampton and Poi.
Unbeaten in all three games so far New Zealand have qualified walk through to the finals to be played Sunday at Xopperbox Arena. They face Jamaica while South Africa play England for the bronze medal playoff.
Both Sunday games promise to be exciting to end the Nations cup held over three cities Nottingham, Birmingham and London.
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