Jenny van Dyk’s charges burst out of the blocks with the opening centre pass and immediately stamped their authority on the contest. Elmére van der Berg, celebrating her 50th cap, was ruthless under the post, punishing the Tanzanian defence at every opportunity. 

By the first break, South Africa were firmly in control, racing to a commanding 32-goal lead.

Van Dyk did the changes early in the second quarter, introducing Rolene Streutker for Van der Berg. The defensive combination of Jamie van Wyk and Nicola Smith proved rock-solid, keeping Tanzania’s attack quiet and restricting them to just 11 goals by half-time.

Jenny van Dyk and Khanyisa Chawane. Photo: Reg Caldecott

The Proteas continued their dominance after the interval, tightening the screws in the so-called championship quarter.

Tanzania managed only six goals in the period, while South Africa added 23, stretching the advantage to 79–17.

One of the standout moments of the evening belonged to Kyla Dames, who earned her maiden Proteas cap fresh off an impressive Under-21 World Youth Cup campaign in Gibraltar. 

Dames shone in her debut and was deservedly named Player of the Match, marking a dream start to her senior international career. Coach Jenny van Dyk was satisfied with her team’s opening outing.

Rolene Streutker. Photo: Albert Perez

“It was a very good first game for us – exactly the type of match and result we were aiming for,” said Van Dyk.

“I’m happy we were able to try out different combinations, and incredibly proud of Kyla on her debut and for being named Player of the Match. This shows we’re heading in the right direction.

We were a bit loose in the third quarter – it was our most expensive one – but overall I’m pleased. We’ll park this result and shift our focus to Malawi next. And as a team, we’re very proud of Elmére on reaching her 50th cap.”

On Tuesday, the Proteas will face their nemeses’ and hosts Malawi, with this game in Lilongwe scheduled to start at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg