Wales’ Head Coach Trish Wilcox says Wales improved their
performance in their second test match today in Durban. Wales brought a creative,
strong and determined game plan to the court, which certainly tested fifth
ranked in the world, South Africa. However, the Proteas won the match to take
out the tri-series, with a final score of 64 – 45.
“It was an improved performance,” says Wilcox, “certainly
the structures and systems that we had talked about taking into the second game
we did put in play.
The match began with a confident start from Wales which saw
them score the first goal of the match. South Africa took a slim lead
after the first quarter but Wales fought incredibly hard, keeping the goal
difference close.
Wales had an excellent third quarter, with the quarter
ending with a difference of one goal. Wales approached the third quarter
with speed and strength and some fantastic shooting from both Goal Shoot
Georgia Rowe, and Goal Attack Chelsea Lewis shooting at 89% and 90%
respectively.
Wales’ shooting overall was statistically higher than South
Africa.
Wales face South Africa for one last time on Sunday.
Wilcox says their aim for the match ahead is to perform consistently over four
quarters.
“During the last two test matches we’ve been in and out,”
says Wilcox. “At international level it’s now about putting together a
sixty minute performance.”
Wales’ tour to South Africa is great exposure for both Wales
Senior and U21 players, especially with three U21 players placed in the senior
squad.
It’s fantastic to be able to give three of our U21 players
exposure at this level; as we’re looking ahead to the World Youth Cup in
Botswana.”
Wales U21 also played their second match against Baby
Proteas this afternoon. The first quarter saw Wales come out more competitively
than in their first game and they battled hard throughout the match.
However, the experienced hosts stole the game winning 73-22.
“We showed in the first quarter what we’re capable of,” says
Under 21 Coach Louisa Daniell. “I’m really pleased with what I saw in the
first half of the first quarter and I know that the girls will come back with
passion and pride, and we’ll try again tomorrow.”
Wales U21 are grateful for the opportunity to play against
one of the best teams in the world, ahead of their World Youth Cup qualifying
tournament in Cardiff in October.
“The experience has been amazing,” says Daniell. “It’s
a chance to come to South Africa to play netball on a difference
continent.
“I can see how these young girls are growing because of this
experience.”
Wales U21 will meet Baby Proteas at 11am (GMT) tomorrow,
followed by Wales seniors at 1pm (GMT).
