South Africa into semifinals, Jamaica out

The top four has been decided at the Netball World Cup.

South Africa are through to the final four for the first time since 1995 after a strong final quarter got them home against a relatively competitive Uganda.

They join the Silver Ferns, Australia and hosts England as the four confirmed semifinalists.

South Africa v Uganda

Southern Steel star Lenize Potgieter continued her strong tournament by scoring a game-high 46 from 49 as South Africa beat Uganda 67-40 to advance through to the semifinals.

‘‘We knew they were going to be a tough opponent. They always bring their best game against us,’’ goal defence Karla Pretorius said.

‘‘They have a typical African style of play and it definitely wasn’t easy for us.’’

Jamaica v Scotland

South Africa’s success has come at Jamaica’s expense. The Sunshine Girls have contested the semifinals at every World Cup since 1999 but losses to both South Africa and England have consigned them to third place in Group G, despite beating Scotland 67-38.

Jamaica struggled in the opening exchanges and even found themselves trailing 14-13 at the first break. But Jhaniele Fowler’s 45/48, and two comprehensive middle quarter performances, laid the foundation for what ended up being a lopsided victory.

England v Trinidad and Tobago

England have set up a Group G showdown with South Africa after the Roses made light work of Trinidad and Tobago, winning 72-46 after jumping out to an early 20-12 first quarter lead.

Jo Harten scored a game-high 36/40 for England. After a tight opening five minutes, the hosts pulled away and never looked back.