The SA Women’s Hockey Team claimed a 2–0 victory over the Canada Women’s Hockey Team in the third test of the series at HS Menlopark in Pretoria, producing a performance full of attacking intent and defensive control to take the lead in the five match series.
The match marked a special occasion for goalkeeper Jana Marie Botha, who made her senior international debut between the posts for South Africa.
From the opening whistle, the game was played at high tempo with chances at both ends. South Africa enjoyed sustained pressure and earned more than ten penalty corners over the course of the match but were unable to fully capitalise, thanks in large part to an outstanding goalkeeping display from Canada’s Laplante.
The breakthrough eventually came through a moment of individual brilliance. Ntsopa Mokoena was fed into the circle and initially appeared to have lost the scoring opportunity, but she adjusted brilliantly, shifting the ball onto her reverse stick before firing home superbly to give South Africa a deserved lead.
The second goal was a product of excellent teamwork and intensity. A high press forced a turnover deep in Canadian territory, allowing Thati Zulu and Ntsopa Mokoena to combine calmly before slipping the ball past the advancing goalkeeper for Laiken Brisset to finish, scoring her second international goal.
South Africa created several further high quality chances and will feel frustrated not to have added to their tally. However, the hosts will take confidence from a disciplined defensive performance that limited Canada’s opportunities and ensured a clean sheet on the day.
After the match, Thati Zulu reflected on the performance and the broader picture.
“I think it was a good game, especially after a frustrating performance yesterday. This is about build up for a World Cup, so it’s important that we keep seeing progress this year. The support really helped us today and fuels the fire.”
A composed and encouraging performance from the SA Women’s Hockey Team as they continue to build momentum in front of their home supporters, with attention now turning to the next test in Pretoria.
