South Africa missed a semi-final spot after losing their final group match 58-54 to England at The Hydro on Thursday evening.
Having suffered their first defeat the previous day, South Africa entered their final pool match with victory in mind and this was evident in their approach. From their centre pass they immediately gained an advantage. Jenny van Dyk retained her starting seven line up and kept her core squad unchanged. At the end of the quarter South Africa led England 17-11.
England responded with renewed vigour in the second quarter and took the game to South Africa. Both teams came from the bench with no substitutions. England was more aggressive and was rewarded as they finished 17-12 in their favour. South Africa went into half-time leading 29-28.
England maintained pressure on their opponents and for the first time in the match took the lead. South Africa struggled to find their rhythm and England maintained a four-point lead throughout the championship quarter. South Africa was forced to make a change when Captain Khanyisa Chawane sustained a head injury shortly after five minutes of play in the third quarter and was replaced by Kamogelo Maseko.
Handling errors and possession giveaways worked against South Africa and England capitalised on these mistakes when it mattered most. At the end of the quarter England was in control and took the quarter 15-10.
South Africa found their rhythm in the final quarter but the task appeared daunting. At the end of the quarter both teams were locked in at 15 all.
Score Breakdown:
Q1 South Africa 17 – 11 England
Q2 South Africa 12 – 17 Englamd
Q3 South Africa 10 – 15 England
Q4 South Africa 15 – 15 England
Overall score – South Africa 54 -58 England
Photo Credit: World Netball
