DailySun
Kingston – The SPAR Netball Proteas faced a challenging loss against Jamaica, going down 55-47 in the opening Test of the three-match Margaret Beckford Sunshine Series held in Kingston, Jamaica, on Saturday. Despite the setback, national coach Jenny van Dyk remains hopeful.
“In our previous match against Jamaica, we were defeated by 18 points – this time, the margin was just eight points. It indicates progress, and we will be better equipped for the next game,” Van Dyk remarked after the match.
The first quarter was a fiercely competitive affair, ending in a 12-all stalemate as both teams exchanged goals.
During the second quarter, South African goalkeeper Nicola Smith took a significant tumble and had to exit the court with an arm injury. Her replacement, Ane Retief, received a two-minute penalty for a foul (dangerous play).
The Sunshine Girls seized on this advantage, taking the quarter 16-11.
Jamaica continued to build their lead in the third quarter, at one point stretching their advantage to 10 points on two occasions.
Nonetheless, the SPAR Proteas made a strong comeback, reducing the deficit to seven goals, leaving the score at 42-35.
In the fourth quarter, the Sunshine Girls surged ahead, establishing a 12-point lead. However, Captain Khanyisa Chawane’s team fought determinedly until the final whistle, with impressive shooting from Elmere van den Bergh and the in-form goal attack Kamogelo Maseko enabling the SPAR Proteas to finish just eight goals behind.
“We had a game plan, but we encountered unforeseen obstacles in the second quarter,” explained Assistant Coach Zanele Mdodana.
“That moment was a pivotal turning point for us, although the remaining quarters were fiercely contested. Losing Nicola altered the momentum of the match,” she added.
In the earlier game, the SPAR Baby Proteas excelled, claiming a decisive 61-31 victory over Jamaica Under-21.
The next match is set for Thursday, (2 January 2025 – 02h00 SA time), followed by the final test on Sunday, (26 January 2025 – 01h00 SA time).
All matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport Variety 4 DStv Channel 209.
