Netball: Uganda one win away from last four

INF Netball World Cup: Uganda v South Africa (9 pm)

Beat South Africa and it is the semis for the She Cranes — it is that simple. That is, simple but not easy.

Four years ago, the She Cranes might have had a fair or even higher chance of winning this encounter but South Africa at this year's World Cup is a totally different animal.

The SPAR Proteas have gone 4-0 at this World Cup, highlighted by their 56-48 statement win over Jamaica on Monday.

South Africa have scored 263 goals and conceded 173 goals in their four matches.

In comparison, Uganda, who have won three of their four matches, has leaked more goals (215) than they have netted (198).

Put differently, the gap between South Africa and Uganda, which was too close to call four years ago, is quite defined now.

The encounter between Uganda and Scotland at the Netball World Cup in Liverpool. Photo by David Namunyala

South Africa are clear favourites for this encounter, something the She Cranes wisely concede.

"They are a strong team and we expect them to give us a tough challenge," said Uganda coach Vincent Kiwanuka.

"They have been at more World Cups than us and it will call for strong composure and determination for us to beat them."

Strength of character Uganda edged out Trinidad Tobago 57-54 in their last outing in a performance that highlighted a strength of character that will be vital against South Africa.

But more will be required to shock a side that has the look of World Cup dark horses, perhaps, something like Uganda's best-ever performance.

Uganda has not been able to pass the ball with the same intensity consistently as the top four sides at the World Cup but after four games, Peace Proscovia and Co. have amassed relatively enough match-rhythm to put together a tight game for four quarters. Anything less and the Proteas will win.

"The semi-final is our target this time and I know we shall do all it takes," Kiwanuka vowed.