The Air Pacific Fiji U-21 netball team has suffered their first loss in the World Youth Netball Championships to South Africa 42 points to 37 in the Cook Islands.
It also could be the end of their 1/4 final dream and their hopes now lie on Botswana, who had lost all of their 3 pool games, to cause an upset against South Africa in their last pool game tomorrow.
The Melissa Walker coached side now face an uphill battle against the number 1 ranked team in the World, Australia in tomorrow's game.
Manager Selina Kuruleca said the girls had to play catch up game throughout and it makes it harder for them.
This morning South Africa never allowed the Fiji team to settle as they rattled them from the opening whistle to lead 21-17 at half-time.
South Africa stretched their lead to 36-26 in the third quarter as the Fiji team tried to catch up.
Fiji came back strongly in the last quarter to narrow the deficit and final score of 42-37.
In the other Pool 3 game - Samoa defeated Botswana 58 points to 40.
Fiji will now play Australia tomorrow at 12.15pm in their last pool game.
South Africa edge Fiji netters
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