Silver Ferns Clinch Thrilling 57-56 Win Over South Africa

The Silver Ferns achieved a dramatic comeback victory against South Africa, winning 57-56 in a closely contested match on October 14, 2023, at Stadium Southland. This win not only marked their first triumph against the Proteas in 30 years but also completed a clean sweep of the Taini Jamison Trophy series.

With the score tied at 56-56 and only 20 seconds remaining, South Africa aimed to secure their first win by transitioning the ball to their midcourters. Yet, Gordon intervened, intercepting the ball and racing down the court. Martina Salmon clinched the match with a decisive shot, igniting celebrations in the stadium as the Silver Ferns turned the tide in the closing moments.

The game was filled with tension, featuring two suspensions and a significant lead of seven goals for South Africa at one point. The Silver Ferns gained momentum early in the final quarter after Nicola Smith of South Africa was suspended, allowing the Silver Ferns to establish a three-goal lead. Subsequently, Kimiora Poi was also suspended, pushing Gordon into the centre position. Despite these setbacks, the Silver Ferns rallied to secure their victory.

South Africa displayed strong performances throughout the match, particularly from their captain Khanyisa Chawane, who marked her 100th test appearance. The Proteas effectively utilized their ball speed to dominate in the early stages, taking a 12-8 lead by the end of the first quarter. They continued to capitalize on the Silver Ferns’ struggles, leading 29-23 at halftime.

The Silver Ferns, however, made adjustments after the break, with Salmon and Poi increasing their intensity on the court. Salmon, in particular, worked to draw defenders away from key player Grace Nweke, who finished the match with an impressive shooting record of 49 out of 54 attempts. The Silver Ferns won the third quarter 18-14, but still trailed 43-41 going into the final quarter.

As the fourth quarter unfolded, the Silver Ferns gained confidence and executed a series of effective plays. Their resilience shone through in the closing moments, culminating in Salmon’s game-winning shot. The final score reflected the narrow margins that often define high-stakes sports contests.

Reflecting on the match, both teams showcased their skills and determination. South Africa, despite the loss, proved they are a formidable force with a bright future in netball. The Silver Ferns, meanwhile, celebrated their hard-fought victory and the significance of sweeping the Taini Jamison Trophy series.

The final statistics illustrate the competitive nature of the match: Silver Ferns 57, with key contributions from Nweke and Salmon, and South Africa 56, led by Elmere van der Berg who scored 46 out of 51 attempts. These figures underscore the excitement and intensity present throughout the game, making it a memorable encounter for netball fans worldwide.