The Proteas have lost their second match in the Sanzea Netball Quad Series second round in Tauranga.
Co-hosts, the New Zealand Silver Ferns comfortably beat the Proteas by 61 goals to 37.
South Africa’s loss to New Zealand comes at the back of a 61-44 loss to Australia in Auckland.
New Zealand started like a house on fire, eager to record a win after a disappointing loss to England in their first match at the weekend, looking a far cry from the team that struggled against the Roses.
The Silver Ferns dominated attack and defence and enjoyed a handy 17-7 lead after the first quarter.
Proteas Captain Bongi Msomi admits that when they tried to keep pace with the Ferns, damage was already done and they could not make up the difference.
“It was clear that we really didn’t stick to the game plan. If we could keep the ball short and sharp. We’ve lost it a little bit. But we came back and had a few chances to try and close the gap. It’s about discipline. I think we still need to work on that going forward and in preparation for next year’s World Cup,” says Captain Bongi Msomi.
The hosts then saved their best for last. They continued to control every aspect of the game, while South Africa had to deal with a penalty count of 83.
Silver Ferns Captain, Laura Langman says they are very happy with the way they played.
“I think we’ve got a game plan and sometimes intuition needs to come as well. So, you need to have a balance and I think we gave ourselves a license to play how we like to play and it was very nice.”
The Silver Ferns Coach Noeline Taurua is very pleased with the win and the way the shooters bounced back after the England woes. The Proteas will next take on the England Roses on Sunday in Melbourne while New Zealand will clash against Australia on the same day. Author- Lindelwa Godie
