By Suzanne McFadden
New Zealand's No 2 netball side gave the South Africans a shake-up in Nelson last night, 48 hours before the Proteas come up against the real thing.
South Africa lost 51-45 to New Zealand A in a rugged dress rehearsal to tomorrow night's first test with the Silver Ferns.
Proteas
captain Irene van Dyk looked like she had the game in her capable hands, swinging the score in their favour when she entered the game in the second quarter. But it was the New Zealand A captain, Temepara George, who took control in the final 15 minutes with an exceptional performance at centre.
Surprisingly, Van Dyk sat out the first quarter of the match. New Zealand A led 14-9 at the first break - George and Amigene Rangitaawa deftly feeding their shooters Jodi Te Huna and Lisa Gregory.
At the first break, South African coach Louise du Plessis realised her team's shortfalls, and introduced van Dyk. With van Dyk dominating the circle, yet shooting right under the post, South Africa's five-goal deficit switched to a five-goal advantage at halftime.
Van Dyk grabbed most of the traditional South African high lobs thrown her way by talented wing attack Des Neville, yet it was obvious that New Zealand A were still the better team in the midcourt.
Coach Robyn Broughton stuck with the same team throughout and her faith was rewarded as New Zealand A clawed back to a 37-36 lead going into the final quarter. Sheryl Clarke's tireless efforts at wing defence for the New Zealanders sealed the match.
