South Africa’s women’s hockey team beat Canada 2-0 in the third test of the five-match series at HS Menlopark in Pretoria, producing a performance full of attacking intent and defensive control.
The match marked a senior international debut for goalkeeper Jana Marie Botha. The game was played at high tempo with chances at both ends. South Africa enjoyed sustained pressure and earned more than 10 penalty corners, 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, shifting the ball onto her reverse stick before firing home.
The second goal was a product of teamwork and intensity. A high press forced a turnover deep in Canadian territory, allowing Thati Zulu and Ntsopa Mokoena to combine before slipping the ball past the advancing goalkeeper for Laiken Brisset to finish.
South Africa created several 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.”
Photo: Charmaine Botes Visser
