Mthalane brace inspires South Africa’s first victory in Nations Cup

Ayakha Mthalane scored the first two international goals of his career as Ama Stokke Stokke put on a marvelous display in front of a sold-out crowd. 

Mthalane slotted home in the 36th and 53rd minutes, while the other two goals came from Calvin Davis and Kenton Melville, who made his debut against France in the opening match of the tournament.

Speaking to the media after the match, Mthalane, whose two goals form part of the 30 goals scored in the tournament so far, reflected on his two-goal performance.

“The two goals I scored, I think the first one I was just in a good space and felt very good. I think I took the opportunity very well,” said Mthalane

READ: Nadine de Klerk identifies key factor in T20 World Cup opening loss

“I think we continued with the momentum, and I think coming back on I knew that I wanted to get a second one, just for the team but also for myself just to make myself feel good.”

Head coach Devon van der Merwe said Mthalane will grow tremendously from his performance against the USA.

“What a moment that was for Ayakha. He probably wasn’t at his best on the first night, but he settled beautifully and I think his confidence will grow tremendously from this performance.”

USA’s head coach Allan Law credited South Africa for their performance…

“Credit to South Africa. I mean, they really kind of punished us when we had little mental lapses. So, I mean, congratulations to them and they’ve taught us a lot of what we need to do and be better at.” 

Saturday evening's result has now placed South Africa in second position in Pool B on 3 points behind France on six. South Africa will now turn their attention to Ireland who they face in their third and final Pool encounter of the tournament. The match is scheduled for Tuesday 16 June at 7pm.

Photo credits: Ray Chaplin Sports Media