SPAR Proteas victorious after stiff opposition from Uganda She-Cranes

The SPAR Proteas were victorious in their second SPAR Challenge Tri-Nations match against Uganda at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on Thursday, 25 March.

Although South Africa had a convincing victory, the She-Cranes made life difficult for the South Africans, even taking the lead at a point in the match.

At the end of the first quarter the Proteas held a narrow 11-10 lead.

Halfway through the second quarter Uganda drew level (17-17) and two minutes before half-time Uganda took the lead for the first time (21-20).

However, the Proteas fought back and the first half ended with a narrow 22-21 advantage for the home side.

Uganda started the third quarter in fine fashion and once again took the lead. Both teams battled it out until two injuries to Uganda’s goalshooter and wing-attack turned the match.

South Africa pushed ahead and by the end of the third quarter had a comfortable 10-goal lead (37-27). 

The final quarter was a mere formality as South Africa scored with relative ease to finish 15 goals ahead when the final whistle blew.

Although it was a comprehensive victory in the end for South Africa, the She-Cranes had an excellent first half and proved worthy opponents for the Proteas.

Bongi Msomi, captain of South Africa, in action against Uganda She-Cranes during the SPAR Challenge International Tri-Nations. Image: Reg Caldecott

SPAR Proteas head coach Dorette Badenhorst said she had expected a tough and physical game against Uganda.  

“We have played them often, so we know what to expect. It’s all about discipline and staying calm. “I brought Izette on in the third quarter because I wanted her physical strength in defence. It was a tough game for some of the new caps, who are not used to this kind of physicality,” said Badenhorst.

Ugandan coach Rashid Mubiru acknowledged that his team had been affected by the two injuries.

“It really upset our game plan,” he said.

South African centre Izette Griesel, who came on in the third quarter, was named player of the match.

Score breakdown – South Africa vs Uganda

• Q1: South Africa 11-10 Uganda
• HT: South Africa 22-21 Uganda
• Q3: South Africa 37-27 Uganda
• FT: South Africa 49-34 Uganda

Shooting stats – South Africa

• Nonsikelelo Mazibuko: 32/34 (94%)
• Renske Stoltz: 17/24 (70.8%)

Shooting stats – Uganda

• Shadiah Nassanga: 12/15 (80%)
• Irene Eyaru: 19/20 (95%)
• Stella Oyella: 3/4 (75%)

Match shooting stats

• South Africa: 49/58 (84.5%)
• Uganda: 34/39 (87%)

Earlier on Thursday, the Proteas beat Namibia 58-30, after leading 32-15 at halft-ime. Goal attack Monique Reynecke was named the player of the match.

In an exhibition match, the President’s XII beat the SPAR Baby Proteas 52-41. Goalkeeper Pamela Chukwu claimed the player of the match honours.

The Proteas had a rest day on Friday.

The Baby Proteas will play against the President’s XII as a precursor to the match between Uganda and Namibia at 18:00.

Tune in to Supersport Variety 4 to watch the games LIVE.

Check the full fixtures here.