By Advent Shoko
Johannesburg – In a commanding home performance that delighted thousands at Ellis Park Arena, South Africa’s SPAR Proteas hammered England’s Vitality Roses 65–50 on Sunday to clinch a 2–1 netball series victory in the Spar Challenge international Test series. A blazing first half, relentless defence and clinical shooting from the hosts ensured they finished the three‑match campaign with bragging rights and momentum ahead of big summer tournaments.
The Roses, world No. 4 entering the series, ran out of gas in the decider after a see‑saw battle that saw each team take a win in the first two Tests. South Africa began the series strongly with a 52–48 victory in the opener, only for England to strike back with a 61–49 win in the second match to level the series.
In the final contest, the Proteas hit the ground running, racing to a 16–9 first‑quarter lead behind vibrant defence from Sanmarie Visser and Juanita van Tonder. At half‑time, South Africa’s cushion had ballooned to 36–21, with the visitors struggling to find rhythm and accuracy against a well‑drilled home side.
The Roses fought back in patches, England edged the third quarter 17–16, but they could not stem the tide. South Africa’s fierce pressure, transition speed and efficient shooting kept them comfortably ahead as the final whistle confirmed a memorable series triumph.
Key Performances as South Africa Beat The Vitality Roses
Sanmarie Visser, a standout in defence and attack for the Proteas, was instrumental in disrupting England’s flow and earning praise as Player of the Tournament. Meanwhile, Owethu Ngubane led the scoring with sharp shooting, and Tarle Mathe dominated in the mid‑court, linking phases with energy and precision.
England, coached by Jess Thirlby, made tactical adjustments throughout the series, including bringing on experienced shooter Helen Housby to provide attacking impetus. However, the Roses lacked consistency at crucial moments and struggled to contain South Africa’s defensive pressure, especially in the first half of the decider.
Vitality Roses captain Fran Williams, who earned Defender of the Series, admitted her side “weren’t good enough right from the start” but applauded the Proteas’ performance, acknowledging the higher intensity and tactical discipline shown by the hosts.
Best Players of the 2026 SPAR Challenge
- Player of the Tournament: Sanmarie Visser
- Best Shooter: Owethu Ngubane
- Best Mid-Court Player: Tarle Mathe
- Best Defender: Fran Williams
South Africa Beat The Vitality Roses Ahead of Glasgow 2026
The series win provides a timely confidence boost for South Africa as they build toward the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow this summer, where both nations will again feature in pool play. The Proteas will take heart from their ability to manage pressure, execute game plans and thrive in front of a passionate home crowd.
For the Vitality Roses, the loss offers lessons in depth, adaptability and timing, areas that will be scrutinised as England prepare for major international competitions later in the season.
Series Summary
Spar Challenge International Series (Ellis Park Arena, Johannesburg):
• Test 1: South Africa 52–48 England
• Test 2: South Africa 49–61 England
• Test 3: South Africa 65–50 England
The Proteas’ series triumph sent crescendos through the arena and across social feeds, marking a memorable chapter in their rivalry with England’s Roses, and setting the tone for an exciting netball year ahead.
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