07 August 2023 | More Sports

Uganda defeated South Africa 49-47 to finish in 5th position at the Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town, the country's highest-ever position in the event.

The She Cranes repeated the feat which also happened last year at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in the playoff for 5th/6th position.

Uganda opened the scoring in the second minute through a goal-by-goal attack by Shadiah Nassanga.

With the momentum swinging slightly in South Africa’s favour, Mary Nuba Cholhok was gesturing to her Uganda teammates to remain calm.

Uganda disrupted South Africa’s play with a strong defensive effort, getting hands and bodies in the way.

Going into the last 15 minutes of the match, Uganda was continuing to enjoy the lion’s share of possession (60 per cent) and it was left for South Africa to play catchup.

As the match was nearing its end but it was the She Cranes who managed to keep their nerves.

They stretched their lead to five goals and were on course to get the better of the Proteas for the second time in a year at a major tournament.

With four minutes left, Uganda had just two points in the lead but they held on, preventing South Africa from any scoring opportunities.

It was the clever play from Uganda that secured them the victory and 5th place at the World Cup in Cape Town.

Most valuable player: Mary Cholhok (Uganda)

Quarter scores: 11-12 / 23-23 / 37-39 / 47-49

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