Australia asserted their dominance in the three-match series against South Africa, securing a resounding 67-52 victory in the inaugural netball Test held in Hobart, Australia. Despite the SPAR Proteas’ notable improvements, they were unable to counter Australia’s consistent performance, culminating in a well-deserved win for the world champions. Notably, Kamelo Maseko of South Africa showcased an outstanding performance, earning the title of the Player of the Match.
Gutsy performance by the SPAR Proteas, but not enough to beat Diamonds in the second test. Kamogelo Maseko named Player of the Match after a great display of netball.
— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) October 29, 2023
👉 https://t.co/slLnHnwgER#SPARProteas pic.twitter.com/lbTQ1UHxWg
Proteas determined to bounce back
The SPAR Proteas, determined to redeem themselves after the previous defeat, implemented strategic changes, with Kamogelo Masego assuming the Goal Attack position and Jeante Strydom taking on Wing Defence. However, a jittery start resulted in unforced errors that worked in favor of the Australian team.
South Africa’s attacking duo of Maseko and Venter exhibited commendable synergy, achieving a perfect shooting average in the initial quarter. The team gradually gained confidence, intensifying the competition and concluding the first quarter with a narrow margin, favoring the world champions at 18-13.
Proteas showed their skills in 2nd quarter
The second quarter saw a revitalized SPAR Proteas team, perhaps buoyed by the coach’s motivational pep talk. Demonstrating heightened determination, they briefly dominated the play, ultimately conceding the quarter to Australia by a close margin of 14-12, leading to a halftime score of 32-25 in favor of the Australian Diamonds.
🇦🇺🆚🇿🇦
— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) October 29, 2023
𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗲𝘀𝘁
𝗛𝗮𝗹𝗳 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲
Giving it everything they've got! Let's GO SPAR Proteas! 👏
AUSTRALIA 32
SOUTH AFRICA 25#SPARProteas pic.twitter.com/TfJFA1aLx1
Coach Plummer made a pivotal decision at halftime, replacing Phumza Maweni with Nicola Smith at the Goal Keeper position. Despite their initial efforts, South Africa faced a resilient Australian team that displayed superior skills during the championship quarter, clinching an 18-15 victory and further extending their lead.
Strategic substitutions by Proteas to break Australia's rythm
In a bid to turn the tables, South Africa made two additional changes at the commencement of the final quarter, with Refiloe Nketsa taking the Centre position and Rolene Streutker joining Masego upfront. Streutker quickly found her rhythm and efficiently converted all scoring opportunities. Nevertheless, Australia continued their winning streak, ultimately sealing the match with a 67-52 scoreline in their favor.
Following an impressive display of netball skills, Kamogelo Maseko rightfully earned the Player of the Match accolade, reflecting her unwavering commitment and talent on the court. Post-match, Maseko expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to represent her country, emphasizing her continual pursuit of excellence during every game.
🇦🇺🆚🇿🇦
— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) October 29, 2023
The result didn't go our way, but our spirit remains unbroken 💪
Thank you South Africa for always 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 behind the SPAR Proteas. 🙏 We go again Tuesday 10:30 (CAT).#SPARProteas pic.twitter.com/a36zPZqOTT
South Africa still focused to claim first win against Australia
Despite Australia’s definitive series victory, the SPAR Proteas drew confidence from their enhanced performance in the second test, demonstrating improved ball possession, strategic off-ball movements during attacks, and strengthened defensive lines. However, the team acknowledged the need for further improvements, particularly in minimizing unforced errors that cost them pivotal moments throughout the game.
Notably, South Africa remains determined to break their record against Australia, looking ahead to the final match of the series scheduled for October 31st in Hobart. South Africa has never beaten Australia in 45 test matches. As both teams gear up for the conclusive showdown, anticipation for a thrilling and fiercely competitive encounter remains high.
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Tune in and show your support Mzansi 🙌 as the SPAR Proteas take on the World Champions 25, 29 & 31 October! 🇦🇺🆚🇿🇦
— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) October 24, 2023
All matches LIVE on SuperSport 📺#SPARProteas pic.twitter.com/3wKqSXKa47
