It was an action-packed day on and off the court for Sasol sponsored AmaWheelaGirls in Bangkok, Thailand as they were in action against Germany and Thailand as well as paying a courtesy visit to the South African embassy in the South Asian city.
Following their opening IWBF U25 Women’s World Champs opener against Canada yesterday, the youthful South African side took on powerhouses Germany in their first game of the day and despite producing their best performance yet, they fell to a 46-31 loss against the Europeans.
There were plenty of positives in a very tough game for the South Africans with their enterprising attacking play led by points machine Asive Gilifile and Ongezwa Hagu causing plenty of headaches at various points of game which bodes well for the team going forward.
In their second match of the day, the AmaWheelaGirls faced off against hosts, Thailand who were also desperate for a win in order to keep their championship hopes alive.
The hosts came out the stronger side and established an early lead that they continued to extend while the frustrated South Africans struggled to assert themselves in what was arguably their least impressive showing at the global showpiece so far.
At the halftime break Thailand led 27-11 and would hang on to their lead in the second half with a measured performance that ultimately saw them run out 60-34 winners.
The South African team also took time out of their busy schedule to visit the South African Embassy and were hosted by Ambassador Darkey Ephraim Africa for a light lunch and much needed words of encouragement. Team Manager, Wiseman Dlamini also handed over signed kit for the embassy.
This courtesy visit was arranged by Wheelchair Basketball SA and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Next up on the World Championship schedule for the South Africans is an exciting clash against a winless Japan team on Friday at 11:30am SA Time and all the action is live streamed on the official IWBF YouTube page.
For more information follow Wheelchair Basketball on social media platforms:
Facebook – Wheelchair Basketball SA
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Twitter – @amawheelaBBall
