/ 29 June 2012

Springbok women aiming for clean sweep

Phumeza Gadu during the Women Springboks 7s media briefing and training session from Florida Park
Phumeza Gadu during the Women Springboks 7s media briefing and training session from Florida Park

Last week, the South Africans delivered a convincing display to beat the visitors 28-17 in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

South Africa's coach, Denver Wannies, has kept the starting 15 unchanged for Saturday, a huge vote of confidence for the run-on team who quickly got into their stride despite the long layoff.

"The team played well last week and the key will be to keep that momentum and improve on our areas of concern," Wannies said.

"The Nomads were probably a bit rusty last week and they will be much better prepared for this match.

"We are, therefore, bracing ourselves for a huge onslaught, which will be a big test of our character."

Saturday's match will only be the second time in four seasons that the South African women will be in action on home soil.

In another boost for the team, industrious loose forward Mandisa Williams, the regular team captain, has been included on the bench.

She has recovered from a knee injury and replaces Lusanda Mtiya.

The South African team will again be led by experienced prop Cebisa Kula.

The match will be preceded by curtain-raisers featuring women's teams from Maties, Busy Bee, Blue Jet, United Brothers, UWC, Khayelitsha and Tygerberg.

The South Africa Women's team to play against the Nomads at Goodwood: Yolanda Meiring, Phumeza Gadu, Janine Felix, Daphne Scheepers, Natasha Hoffmeester, Zandile Njoko, Fundiswa Plaatjies, Lamla Momoti, Noma Faleni, Nombulelo Mayongo, Nolusindiso Booi, Dolly Mavumengwana, Cebisa Kula (captain), Denita Wentzel, Nedene Botha.

Reserves: Nosipho Poswa, Katlego Moremi, Mandisa Williams, Thantaswa Macingwana, Theresa Ruiters, Mathrin Simmers, Sinazo Nobele. – Sapa