Sunbirds fail to sore against Crinums
The Mpumalanga Sunbirds gave the defending champions, the Free State Crinums, a run for their money in their Brutal Fruit Netball Premier League match at the Bellville Velodrome on Sunday.
The Crinums won the match by 64 goals to 34, but the Sunbirds made them work hard for their win.
Their defenders, Chandi Venter and Palesa Mbokwane, showed scant respect for the reputations of the Crinums attack, including Proteas captain Maryka Holtzhausen, and succeeded with a number of turnovers and rebounds.
The Crinums were outstanding. Tanya Mostert was an effective centre, controlling the centre court and ensuring the ball made its way to the Crinums’ circle. She was named player of the match for her efforts.
Alicia Puren, who normally plays goalkeeper, revelled in the added freedom and responsibility of playing goal attack.
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Sunbirds coach Marlie Nel was proud of her team. “They kept on fighting and if something didn’t work out, they made another plan,” she said.
“They weren’t overawed by playing the champions – they felt they had something to prove and I think they did that. We will go home now and prepare for our match against the Diamonds next week – it’s a very important game for both teams.
“I hope to use the match as a confidence booster for our next game, against the Kingdom Stars.”
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