SPAR PROTEAS ADVANCE TO AFRICA NETBALL CUP FINAL WITH CONVINCING WIN OVER ZIMBABWE
Saturday, 13 December 2024
SWAKOPMUND, NAMIBIA – The SPAR Proteas are one step closer to African Netball glory, securing a 63-41 victory over Zimbabwe in the 2024 Africa Netball Cup semi-finals. The SPAR Proteas put up an impressive performance, overpowering a determined Zimbabwean side that fought tirelessly until the final whistle.
The South Africans displayed superior speed, accuracy and court coverage in the first semi-final clash. They took a narrow 17-13 lead in the first quarter, capitalising on strong centre-court play and accurate shooting.
In the second quarter, SA extended their lead with pinpoint passing, effective centre-court pressure and clinical shooting from the circle. They went to the break leading 34-21.
The SPAR Proteas continued to dominate in the third quarter, maintaining a strong defensive presence and consistently finding gaps in the Zimbabwean defence. During this period, the score increased to 50-32 in favour of the Proteas.
In the final quarter, Jenny van Dyk’s charges maintained their composure, ultimately securing a 63-41 victory over Zimbabwe. This victory extends South Africa’s unbeaten record against its opponents in recent years, winning all 11 encounters against Zimbabwe.
SPAR Proteas “Ready” for Uganda Final Showdown
Ahead of the highly anticipated final against Uganda, SPAR Proteas coach Jenny Van Dyk shared her thoughts on the team’s preparations and the challenge ahead. Reflecting on the semi-final victory over Zimbabwe, she emphasised the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the match while highlighting the depth of the South African squad.
“We take on Uganda exactly as expected. We have prepared for this from the very start and we have prepared with them in mind,” she said.
“The players had a rough start to the semis. But before the end of that first quarter, they pulled it back so well, so good job for Zimbabwe. They started strong in that match, but also an excellent performance from our South African players to keep the consistency throughout most of the game. I mean, being able to play all 12 players in the semi-finals speaks volumes of the type of players we have.
“The team is ready. We’ll be doing quite a lot of work. From now till tomorrow, we will prepare for the final preparation for Uganda. But we are already confident that we will go out there and do our utmost best.”
The SPAR Proteas will play Uganda in the 2024 Africa Netball Cup final on Saturday at 14:00. Uganda secured their place in the final with a 51-43 victory over Malawi in the second semi-final, setting the stage for their 20th encounter with the Proteas.
Head-to-Head History
South Africa hold a dominant 15-4 record against Uganda in their previous 19 meetings. While South Africa has enjoyed significant success in recent years, including a string of victories in 2021, Uganda has shown a growing competitive edge, notably securing a 54-48 win in Birmingham in 2022.
FRIDAY, 13 DECEMBER 2024 – SOUTH AFRICA RESULTS:
South Africa vs Zimbabwe (Women)
Q1: 17-13
Q2: 34-21
Q3: 50-32
Q4: 63-41
SATURDAY, 14 DECEMBER 2024 – SOUTH AFRICA FIXTURES:
Catch the action live on the Netball Namibia YouTube Channel.
Final at 12:00: South Africa vs Eswatini (Men)
Final at 14:00: South Africa vs Uganda (Women)
