Glasgow – 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 lineup 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.
However, South Africa went into half-time leading 29-28.
In the third quarter, England maintained pressure and, for the first time in the match, took the lead.
South Africa was forced to make a change when Captain Khanyisa Chawane sustained a head injury five minutes into play and was replaced by Kamogelo Maseko.
South Africa struggled to find their rhythm, and England kept a four-point lead.
England remained in control.
At the end of the last quarter, both teams were locked in at 15 all.
However, in the end, England won 58 – 54, ending the South Africans’ dream of a semi-final spot at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Score Breakdown:
Q1 South Africa 17 – 11 England
Q2 South Africa 12 – 17 England
Q3 South Africa 10 – 15 England
Q4 South Africa 15 – 15 England
Overall score – South Africa 54, England 58
