South Africa takes on Australia in finals of the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup
The South Hemisphere polocrosse Titans, South Africa and Australia, will once again battle it out for the top title after the two teams emerged victorious in Friday’s semi-final round of the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup. South Africa enjoyed a convincing 32–21 win against African semi-finalists, Zambia at Durban Shongweni Club in the Valley of 1000 Hills on Friday morning. Zambia started strong with South Africa having to nip at their heels to creep the goals in and reduce the lead. Chukka 4 saw a change in the scoring position for South Africa, with 3rd generation polocrosse player Chad von Benecke - who was awarded Man of the Match - sparkling up front and scoring goals with flare. South Africa took the lead and set the tone for the next chukka and the rest of the game. The ladies carried the momentum and increased the goal difference with each line out, led by Jacquie Minnaar, the Ladies Player of the Match and captain of this young team. In the second semi-final match between Australia and New Zealand, the game was quite close for the first three chukkas with New Zealand putting up a really good fight and some phenomenal play by the ladies' side out in front. However, in the end, Australia ran away with it, finishing 34–19.
The action continues today (27 July) with the playoffs between USA and the UK at 10.30am, and Ireland and Zimbabwe competing at 2.30pm. The South African Development men’s and ladies’ teams will also take on the Rest of the World Barbarian side at 8.30am and 12.30pm. Before the finals at 1pm on Sunday, 28 July will be the final round of playoffs between Zambia and New Zealand at 10am. There’s also great food, entertainment, and more at this family-friendly event.
