A stunning three-point supershot in the dying seconds has earnt South Africa a 29-all draw with England. England appeared to have secured the result when Joanne Harten put her side ahead with five seconds remaining, but some slick movement and a well-placed shot by South African Charmaine Baard took the win away.
A topsy-turvy opening six minutes saw both teams threaten to pull away, before momentum was wrestled away by England as they nudged ahead taking a one point lead into the first break. Both teams found it tough with numerous turnovers, before England took control in the final twominutes to extend their lead to four points at half time.
Ine-Marie Venter and Charmaine Baard led the way as South Africa took full advantage of their power play to led the match by two at the final change.
The fourth quarter saw plenty of action as England threatened to run away with the match with their powerful drive, but the resilient South Africans didn’t let them have it all their own way.
Reflecting on the result, South African defender Tanya Mostert was full of praise for her shooters. It was a great finish. I think our two shooters deserved this win and her (Baard’s) shot was just amazing… It’s a big turnaround and I think it’s a good way to end the day. So that is great for the team. said Mostert.
The result sees England maintain their unbeaten record against South Africa in seven matches.
We knew it was going to be a tight game. We’ve had two practice games against them and they were both really close so we didn’t it expect it to probably end in a draw, but it’s probably a good game for the spectators, said English shooter Joanne Harten after the game.
