DEAR PROTEAS, YOU DID THAT!
With the hashtag #RenaultXNetballSA a group of fans, “Igenge yeNetball ” if you like, are capturing the best moments as the world gathered in Cape Town this past week and bit.
It might not feel like it right now, but you’re champions to us as your newest and biggest fans. Just follow the hashtag #RenaultXNetballSA to see just how much *wink*
While the main goal was to win gold and be on that champions podium, please save the events of this past week in your minds as a reminder that we will always cheer and root for you, even in times others might see as a defeat.
The most important thing is to always give your best, and YOU DID THAT! from day one here in Cape Town.
Like your brothers, not the Bokke, but the diski ones, who’s fans revel at every chance they get to talk about that one time against world conquering Brazil, despite it ending in a 3-2 defeat.
Well ladies, let me tell you something you might not have realised as yet, YOU DID THAT! in that bruising battle against New Zealand on Tuesday night.
Everyone played their part; Phumza put her body on the line in her efforts to protect the arch and never backed down even with a bruised knee.
Nichole was clutch from everywhere, what to some may be a lack of height is nothing when compared to her incredible footwork, balance and sharpshooting.
Did I mention ice in her veins? With a game-tying shot to make it 48-48 as the clock ran out was something that will live in every single girl’s head.
Elmeré’s quick-release technique tells me that the Spar Proteas have a secret weapon whenever they need to go “hot potato” strategy when they need to either stretch a lead or catch-up.
I’m mentioning only three, but I can’t not add captain Bongi was at her influential best, leaving footprints on every single part of that court, besides the two goal areas.
Karla never stopped working against a seriously efficient attack, Ine-Marí is the reliable shooting depth we deserve, how can I not mention Khanyisa who played like a boss after coming on for Bongi in the third.
Izette, Jeanté you were all just so awesome! All your names will be mentioned in many sporting corridors for many years to come.
We’re here of it all, so please give us a show this weekend.
From your new biggest fan.
Summary of group stages
In five matches at the 2023 NWC, the Proteas have won three matches, lost one and drew one.
The Spar Proteas were drawn in Pool C, alongside Jamaica, Sri Lanka and Wales.
They second in the group, after winning the opener against Wales 61-50 and followed that up with an 87-32 victory over Sri Lanka, before losing 67-49 against Jamaica.
They moved on to make up Pool G together with teams from Pool D.
They immediately bounced back to winning ways with a solid 69-28 victory against Trinidad & Tobago and they followed that up with that unforgettable 48-all draw with New Zealand.
I get the feeling there is an African rivalry brewing with Uganda, after their encounter that went all the way with the Spar Proteas sealing the deal with a 52-50 win.
That wasn’t enough for the Spar Proteas to progress to the semi-finals but there’s still a job to do in the playoffs against Tonga on Friday.
You can join Igenge yeNetball for the match in Cape Town!
Simply follow comment in the social media posts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @Renault_SA with a message of support to our Spar Proteas to stand a chance to win!
I'd like to: