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The South African Invitational netball wins the Diamond Challenge netball series─── 09:53 Thu, 31 Oct 2013
The South African Invitational netball team claimed the second annual Diamond Challenge by beating Zimbabwe 59-45 in the final in Port Elizabeth.
Undeterred by their more experienced opposition, the South Africans displayed defensive guile and attacking finesse.
In the offensive circle, Lindie Lombard was untouchable, creating space with her quick, zig-zagging runs and drawing out the Zimbabwean defence.
The team soaked up the pressure in defence with Shadine van der Merwe, and captain Bongiwe Msomi providing options on attack and defence.
It was a combination that secured numerous turnovers, which proved key to South Africa's win.
Unlike their first two games of the series, South Africa dominated from the start, mesmerising the Zimbabweans with their speed, movement and clinical shooting by Dumisani Chauke.
Zimbabwe's defence was placed under tremendous pressure and was found wanting as South Africa exploited the space in the circle at will.
The hosts raced to a 15-5 lead 10 minutes into the match and ended the quarter 19-11.
Chasing the game in the second quarter, Zimbabwe reduced the number of passes to get into the circle and capitalised effectively.
They went toe-to-toe with the South Africans and, going into the half-time break, they were trailing by nine points.
South Africa held on to outscore Zimbabwe 15 points to 10 in the third quarter to lead 48-34, before an equal points tally of 11 in the fourth quarter secured the title for the hosts.
Msomi, who was named Vital Player of the Series, said her young team-mates had shown maturity beyond their years.
"I'm very proud of the new players, I've practised with them before they went to Youth Championships and I knew what they could do," Msomi said.
"They certainly did not disappoint me nor the team."
A number of Under-21 national team players were selected to make up the Invitational team as a large contingent of Proteas players were released due to work and study commitments.
Proteas' coach Elize Kotze said it was a wonderful way to end the competitive netball season and would give the team the confidence going into a busy 2014.
"This is wonderful for the sport to showcase the talent and the power of netball in South Africa," Kotze said.
"These youngsters followed up well in their bigger sisters' footsteps and I am very proud of them and extremely grateful to have had a chance to work with the country's best younger players."
- SAPA.
