Fiji Pearls lose to South Africa Proteas in final match of International Netball Series

The Fiji Pearls lost 36-83 to South Africa Proteas in the final match of the Digicel Punjas International Netball Series.

The pearls showed a lack of fitness and match sharpness which was exposed by a fast, disciplined South Africa side resulting in their second victory of the two match series.

The Pearls began the match with greater discipline and movement in attack with Maria Rusivakula providing energy in the final third.

However it was poor communication and organization in defence that allowed the Proteas to lead 18-13 by the end of the First Quarter.

The Pearls looked dangerous when they were in the final third of the court however too many transitional turnovers hindered this and put a defence lacking match fitness under constant pressure from the Proteas attackers, especially Wing Attack and Captain Bongiwe Msomi who was too quick and agile for the Pearls defence.

From the 1st Quarter onwards the Proteas played the game at a much higher intensity that the Pearls were unable to slow down allowing the Proteas score frequently.

Youngster Maliana Rusivakula continued to impress with her scoring and her ability to take over the game especially during a 5 minute period when Maliana took over with her attacking movement and expert finishing, however this wasn't enough to halt the dominant Proteas.