South Africa's Under-23 invitation side were handed a crushing 66-33 defeat by a faster, more powerful Australian Centre of Excellence team on Sunday night, in the Spar International Netball Series opener in Potchefstroom.
While the hosts stayed in touch for most of the first half, trailing 30-17, the Australians were relentless in the final two quarters, eventually coasting to a commanding victory.
“It’s all about confidence, and playing a team from Australia will always be a challenge,” said SA coach Dorette Badenhorst.
“This was the first time our group has played together as a team, and the more confidence they have as a unit, the better they will become.
“It’s great seeing them come together and work as a team the way they did.”
The second of three matches in the series will be played in Potchefstroom on Tuesday evening.
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