SPAR Proteas Crush Malawi 68-31 in Thrilling SPAR Challenge Series Kickoff

SPAR Proteas Secure a Strong Win in SPAR Challenge Opener

The SPAR Proteas launched their SPAR Challenge Series with an impressive 68-31 win against Malawi. Playing at Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg, they took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. This win was a promising start for Jenny van Dyk, the team’s new head coach, and Khanyisa Chawane, the new captain.

Smart Moves Lead to Early Success

Coach Van Dyk made strategic choices that paid off. Nicholé Breedt (formerly Taljaard) played as wing attack, a switch from her usual role as goal attack. This allowed Kamogelo Maseko to take the goal attack position, and the move worked well. Maseko, in her 23rd test match, displayed impressive athleticism. Her teamwork with MVP Elmeré van der Berg in the shooting circle helped South Africa gain an early edge. By the end of the first quarter, the Proteas led 16-11.

The Proteas Build a Bigger Lead

In the second quarter, the Proteas expanded their lead. Nicole Smith stood out as goalkeeper, anchoring the defense. Van Dyk kept the lineup steady through the first half but made a few changes after halftime. She moved Chawane to wing attack, which strengthened the midcourt. This new setup helped the Proteas extend their lead to 48-27 by the end of the third quarter and push the final score to 68-31.

Debut Moments and Team Achievements

Ané Retief and Owethu Ngubane both made their SPAR Proteas debut in the closing minutes. In the last quarter, the Proteas added 20 goals while allowing just four from Malawi. Their tight defense left Malawi struggling to keep up.

Malawi Plans to Regroup

Malawi’s coach, Joanna Kachilika, recognized that her team lost focus due to the game’s tempo. However, she remains hopeful with two matches left, saying they will work to adjust their strategy.

SPAR’s #EndPeriodPoverty Campaign Continues

SPAR, as part of their #EndPeriodPoverty campaign, has pledged 50 packs of SPAR Petals sanitary pads for each South African goal. With the Proteas scoring 68 goals, SPAR will donate 3,400 packs. This contribution marks another step in supporting menstrual equity.

Next Matches in the SPAR Challenge Series

The series will continue on Saturday, 2 November, at 17:00, with the final test match on Sunday, 3 November, at 15:00. Both matches will be held at Ellis Park Arena. Fans are eager to see if the Proteas can continue this winning streak.

Scores:

• Q1: 16-11
• Q2: 32-19 (16-8)
• Q3: 48-27 (16-8)
• Q4: 68-31 (20-4)

Most Valuable Player: Elmeré van der Berg (RSA)