The Reggae Girlz secured a convincing 3-0 victory over South Africa in an international friendly, with Khadija Shaw scoring twice and Siobhan Wilson netting her first international goal. Head Coach Hubert Busby praised the team’s defensive efforts, while South Africa’s coach Dr. Desiree Ellis acknowledged the challenges faced during the match. The teams are scheduled to meet again on December 2.
In an impressive display, the Reggae Girlz triumphed over South Africa with a decisive 3-0 victory during an international friendly match held at the Montego Bay Sports Complex. Star forward Khadija Shaw scored twice, while Siobhan Wilson opened the scoring in the first half. Wilson’s goal, stemming from a corner kick, marked her inaugural international score, providing the home team with an advantage. Following this, Shaw netted her first goal in the 55th minute, later wrapping up the match with her second goal in the 82nd minute, thus taking her international goal tally to 57.
Head Coach Hubert Busby expressed satisfaction with the girls’ overall performance, particularly their defensive solidity, which resulted in a clean sheet—a vital aspect in winning matches. He commended 19-year-old debutant Lia Brooks for her composure and skill on the field, signifying the depth of talent within the squad. Shaw herself conveyed the emotional significance of returning to play in front of her home crowd after overcoming recent injuries, stating her focus on continual improvement in her game.
Conversely, South Africa’s head coach, Dr. Desiree Ellis acknowledged the challenges her team faced, highlighting the need for peak performance against skilled players such as Shaw. Ellis noted that while her squad struggled with fatigue and ball possession, they aimed to assess all players in preparation for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Both teams are set to face off again for a second leg at the same venue on December 2.
The match was part of the continuous efforts of the Reggae Girlz and South Africa’s women’s national soccer team to prepare for future tournaments, such as the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). With the fixture being an international friendly, it offered both teams a platform to evaluate their players and strategies ahead of official competitions. The encounter also highlighted the significance of home advantage, especially marking the return of key players from injuries.
The Reggae Girlz delivered a commendable performance against South Africa, demonstrating their capability and teamwork through a significant victory. The match not only served as a benchmark for the team’s progress but also spotlighted the importance of individual contributions, such as those from Shaw and Wilson. As both teams prepare for their forthcoming match, this experience will be instrumental in honing their skills ahead of larger competitions in women’s soccer.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
