SuperGroup South Africa sealed a series whitewash over their African neighbours Namibia. In the first home test match for the South African Women’s Hockey team since the International Hockey Federation (FIH) World League semi-finals in July 2017, there was a massive sense of excitement to have the national team playing at home again.
Along with playing at home for the first time in two years, the series also offered test debuts for Hannah Pearce, Nomnikelo Veto, Robyn Johnson, Tegan Fourie and the youngster in the team, Bianca Wood. Alongside that, Robin van Ginkel and Inky Zondi headed up the team for the first time and Erin Hunter captained for the first time.
Their opposition would be a determined Namibian side featuring several of the African indoor champions, also preparing for their own trip to Spain. Their coach, Erwin Handura, also coach of the indoor side, was determined to limit their opposition chances and set up with a very defensive game plan.
South Africa, wearing their splendid new Grays kit, looked to impress the crowd in Randburg and did just that in a series where they kept three clean sheets, while scoring 11 themselves. Two of those goals were firsts as Nicky Veto and Izelle Verster both netted for the country for the first time. Quanita Bobbs ended the series with the most goals having netted a brace in the third test, with nine other players each getting one.
Although South Africa were always expected to beat the Namibians, who are ranked significantly lower, it was the manner of the victory against a team heading to the same tournament in Valencia that will please the South African management team.
“We had five new caps, so it’s a newish side, but I’m very happy with how we have stepped up in each game. Our counter cover and defence were good and limited Namibia’s circle entries,” said Robin van Ginkel. “We have one more camp and then we head to Spain in a good position.”
“It is such an honour to play for your country and to be given the opportunity to lead your country is incredibly special,” said new captain Erin Hunter. “I look to lead by example and, hopefully, that is what is best for my team. After a long break from international hockey, it’s great to be here again. We don’t play for ourselves, we play for our country and the people who support us.”
The fixtures for the final are:
June 19: South Africa vs Wales
June 20: South Africa vs Italy
June 22: South Africa vs Thailand
June 24: Crossovers
June 26: Semi-finals
June 27: Final
