South Africa’s netball Proteas were beaten 55-47 in their first of three internationals against Jamaica at the Kingston National Indoor Sports Centre. The occasion marked the first South African netball tour to Jamaica since 2012.
In the Under-21 match whch served as a curtain-raiser, the South African Under-21’s beat their Jamaican counterparts 61-31.
Jamaica’s Shimok Jok was named player of the match for her 38 goals in 39 attempts. The standout Soiuth Africans were Rolene Struetker, who netted 17 from 18 attempts, Elmere van der Berg, who scored 18 from 20 attempts and Kamagelo Maseko, who scored eight goals.
The teams were tied 12-12 after the first quarter before the Sunshine Girls put their foot on the gas to lead 29-23 at half-time. At the end of the third quarter, the Jamaicans held a 42-35 lead and they went on to win 55-47.
The Proteas last won a match between the two sides at the Netball World Cup in 2019.
In the Under-21 encounter, Giada Prinsloo scored an impressive 44 goals from 48 attempts, while Michelle van der Merwe contributed 13 goals.
South Africa held a 13-11 lead at the end of the first quarter and stetched it to 29-21 by half-time. Prinsloo was relentless and found the net with ease to put her team up by 22 at 47-25 heading into the final quarter, where the visitors solidified their control.
South African coach Precious Mthembu praised both teams’ efforts while acknowledging areas for her squad to grow.
“I think it was a good run against Jamaica. Exceptional skills were shown on the court today by both teams. I’m happy with how the girls pulled through, and I’m hopeful they will continue to grow and play with more patience. I just love the Jamaican style and how we were able to figure things out on court.”
The second game is on Wednesday at the same venue.