Gibraltar – The SPAR Baby Proteas fell just short of the podium after losing the bronze medal play-off against England, 55–35.
The South Africans, however, achieved their best-ever finish at the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar on Sunday evening.
The SPAR Baby Proteas had enjoyed an impressive run in the tournament and were determined to close it out with a medal.
Both teams were cautious in the opening quarter.
South African coach Precious Mthembu made a tactical change midway through, bringing on Renezia Andrews in place of Luane Smith, but England edged the quarter 9–8.
The second quarter followed a similar pattern, with both sides playing cautiously rather than the fast-paced netball seen earlier in the competition.
England, however, capitalised on their chances and punished South Africa whenever they lost possession, taking a 25–15 lead into half-time.
Coach Mthembu made changes at the start of the third quarter in search of a response, knowing South Africa needed to take their opportunities to stay in the contest.
However, the SPAR Baby Proteas struggled to gain momentum, managing just 10 goals to England’s 13. At the end of the championship quarter, England led 38–25.
England pressed home their advantage in the final quarter as South Africa made costly errors in both midfield and attack.
England were clinical, securing a 55–35 victory and with it the bronze medal.
“We gave our all against England in this match; however, we failed to capitalise on our turn overs,” said Coach Mthembu.
“We had so many missed opportunities, especially when the opponent was vulnerable.
“Our attacking duo was carrying a lot on their shoulders, and it showed.
“Fatigue played a part; you could see the tired legs and bodies on court today.
“No one likes to lose, but we will take this loss with the lessons that it came with.
“I am proud of my girls, and they have done themselves proud and the country proud as well.”
Quarter Score Breakdown:
Q1 – SPAR Baby Proteas 08 – 09 England
Q2 – SPAR Baby Proteas 15 – 25 England
Q3 – SPAR Baby Proteas 25 – 38 England
Q4 – SPAR Baby Proteas 35 – 55 England
SPAR Baby Proteas Starting XII
GS -Giada Prinsloo; GA – Luane Smith; WA – Kayla Dames; C- Karla Victor; WD – Phophi Nematangari ( C ); GD –Luca Keun; GK – Ametisse Bandu
