According to South African netball coach Norma Plummer, their team has what it takes to reach the third and fourth playoffs of the Quad Series.
In Tuesday’s final group game at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, Plummer’s side lost 65-48 to Australia.
With a draw against England on Sunday and losses to Australia and New Zealand, the SA women are yet to win a game at the tournament.
There were several turnovers and some quick ball-passing that Plummer liked, but he felt more game time before the Netball World Cup in July was needed.
According to Plummer, England is a cut down on Australia. “Technically, England is more on par with us at the moment.”
“New Zealand got us by 20 goals, but that was the first game the girls had and often, it takes time to pick up the pace. This is a higher standard game that you’ve got to really commit and work harder.
“Some of the turnovers were fantastic. They can compete with any international player, they’re that good. They just need to be given the opportunity to train and play at the level, and not have to keep coming from behind.”
Australia remain unbeaten ahead of their final against New Zealand at the CTICC (18:00).
The Proteas finished bottom of the Quad Series.
“We can really take it up to England. I think we can match them,” said the Australian coach.
“When we did play England, they started with their bench, so that was a mistake for them because that’s what helped us stay in the game. But now we’ve had game time, I think we’re ready to really take them on.”