A blistering first-half performance and unwavering composure saw the SPAR Proteas power to a 65–50 win over England on Sunday, sealing a memorable 2–1 series victory in the SPAR Challenge Test series at Ellis Park Arena.

Backed by a near-capacity home crowd, South Africa set the tone early. Coach Jenny van Dyk reinstated the starting seven from Thursday’s win, with Elmeré van der Berg returning at goal shooter. The move paid off as the Proteas stormed to a 16–9 lead in the opening quarter, driven by sharp defensive work from Sanmarie Visser and Juanita van Tonder.

The hosts tightened their grip in the second quarter. Slick ball movement through the midcourt and accurate finishing stretched the lead to 36–21 at halftime. Even an injury scare to centre Tarle Mathe, replaced by Refiloe Nketsa, did little to slow the Proteas’ momentum.

England, who had dominated third quarters earlier in the series, fought back after the break. They disrupted South Africa’s rhythm and edged the quarter 17–16, but the Proteas kept the scoreboard ticking and entered the final period with a healthy 52–38 advantage.

The final quarter tested both benches, with several changes and tired legs evident on court. Rolene Streutker, Nicola Smith, Kamogelo Maseko and Kyla Dames all saw action as Van Dyk rotated her squad. Despite England’s persistence, the early damage proved decisive as the Proteas closed out a convincing 15-goal win.

Captain Khanyisa Chawane said the team’s response after Saturday’s loss was key.
“You could see each and every person on that court wanted to win. Every loose ball, we were on it. I loved the energy and how we built from that to the win,” she said.

Van Dyk praised her side’s execution:

“Today was a clinical performance. The team responded well to the plan, and I’m very proud of the players.”

England coach Jess Thirlby admitted her side had been outplayed but remained optimistic ahead of the Commonwealth Games later this year.

Match Summary

SPAR Proteas 65–50 England Roses
Q1: 16–9
Q2: 36–21
Q3: 52–38
Q4: 65–50

Individual Awards – Series

• Player of the Tournament: Sanmarie Visser (SPAR Proteas)
• Best Shooter: Owethu Ngubane (SPAR Proteas)
• Best Mid-court Player: Tarle Mathe (SPAR Proteas)
• Best Defender: Fran Williams (England Roses)

South Africa’s men’s side also featured on the day but went down 52–41 to Australia in their series match.