Cape Town suffered a one-goal defeat last year, but made sure history did not repeat itself. Cape Town led 13-12 after the opening quarter, but Tshwane refused to allow the hosts to gain control. 

Both teams committed unforced errors, making for a tight first half.

Tshwane eventually edged ahead 27-26 at half-time and maintained their advantage for much of the third quarter. Their defence frustrated Cape Town, who eventually drew level at 38-38.

Mangaung won the bronze medal after edging Johannesburg 45-44 in the 3rd- and 4th-place playoff. Photo: Netball SA

The hosts moved 40-39 ahead heading into the final quarter.

The last 15 minutes were a nerve-wracking battle, with Cape Town staying just in front. Tshwane eventually levelled the scores at 55-55.

With less than 20 seconds remaining, Cape Town had possession from the centre pass. Former Proteas player Sigi Burger held her nerve to sink the decisive goal, sparking celebrations.

“There’s obviously a lot of pressure in those moments,” Burger said afterwards. “But being a bit older and more mature helps because you learn how to handle those big moments and realise that it’s just another shot.”

Former Proteas defender and Cape Town assistant coach Phumza Maweni was part of the Western Cape team that last won the tournament in 2016.

“It was hard being on the bench, but I trusted the girls,” Maweni said.

“They took the information on board and delivered exactly what we wanted. It was special to win a final in front of our home crowd.”

Head coach Freda Kemp was delighted to see her team turn last year’s narrow defeat into victory.

“We lost the final by one goal last year, so everything was set up for us this time – the home venue, the home crowd and all the hard work we put in to make sure the players had everything they needed to perform at the highest level,” Kemp said.

Tshwane had been outstanding throughout the tournament, finishing the league phase unbeaten before dethroning four-time defending champions Johannesburg in the semi-finals.

Coach Rozanne Matthyse was proud of her young side despite the defeat. “The progression that we’ve made in such a short time makes me incredibly proud. 

“For me, it’s 10 steps forward. We have such a young squad, with only three players over 30 and the rest under 25. Although we lost, I’m extremely proud of what they produced.”

Dr Freda Kemp. Photo: Netball SA

Mangaung claimed senior A bronze, edging Johannesburg 45-44.

Johannesburg completed an unbeaten tournament in the under-21 A section with a comfortable 52-38 victory over Tshwane. They led 27-20 at half-time and extended their advantage to 14 goals.

Mangaung beat Royal Bafokeng 49-40 to claim the under-21 bronze medal.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh