This victory backed-up the commanding 5-0 win earlier in the week following a clinical display by the reigning Olympic and Pro Series champions.

It was a special afternoon in the Mother City, with South Africa captain Sam Mvimbi leading his side on his birthday in front of another passionate, vocal home crowd that refused to be silenced despite the quality of the opposition.

Sam Mvimbi - Anton Geyser

The opening half belonged to the South Africans’ defensive resolve. Up against one of the world’s powerhouse teams, the hosts produced a disciplined, high-intensity display without the ball, frustrating the Dutch with their structure and work rate. Goalkeeper Cullin de Jager was immense between the posts, pulling off a series of top-class saves as the visitors probed for an early breakthrough.

South Africa weren’t just soaking up pressure either. They earned several penalty corners of their own and created moments of genuine threat, but will rue not converting from the set piece during a strong first-half showing. Still, they went into the break level, giving the crowd plenty to cheer and believe in.

The deadlock was finally broken early in the third quarter when Miles Bukkens fired home from a penalty corner to give the Netherlands a 1–0 lead. The South Africans responded with intent, with Litha Kraai and Zenani Kraai injecting pace and energy into the attack, but the score remained unchanged heading into the final quarter.

The Dutch then turned the screw. Early in the fourth quarter Reyenga doubled the lead from another penalty corner, before Bukkens struck again from the set piece to put the result beyond doubt. Dutch skipper Thierry Brinkman added the finishing touch to seal the 4–0 win.

While the scoreboard favoured the visitors, South Africa can take heart from the series. Their defensive resilience, intensity and willingness to take on one of the world’s best sides offered plenty of encouragement as they continue their build in front of an ever-loyal home crowd.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport