France has recorded its second win in the Pro League. In Potchefstroom, Frédéric Soyez’s team was 4-1 too strong for South Africa on Tuesday. It was the first meeting between the two countries in the Pro League.
With two goals in the opening quarter, the French laid the foundation for the victory. After the previous 5-2 victory over India and a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands, the debutant in the Pro League again scored points. In contrast to South Africa, also for the first time a participant in the national competition, which lost its five matches without a chance.
Two Baumgarten goals
With two goals, Gaspard Baumgarten had a large share in the victory of the French. He opened the scoring in the fourth minute. After a French penalty corner, the pressure on the South African goal increased. This resulted in a barrage of shots, after which Baumgarten’s effort disappeared into the target via Nduduzo Lembethe.
Nqobile Ntuli then had the equalizer on his stick, but his backhand bounced off the post. Bad luck for South Africa, which had to concede a second goal not much later. Blaise Rogeau was the end station of a well-executed counter: 2-0.
After the break, the French expanded their lead. Once again, the team needed the help of South Africa. Declared Player of the Match, Baumgarten’s effort was reversed by Leneal Jackson and the ball landed in the South African goal.
Cassiem shows himself
The 4-0 was also scored in the fourth and final quarter. Timothée Clément successfully put his stick against the ball from a cross by Gaspar Xavier. Dayaan Cassiem was close to a hit, but he hit the crossbar. A little later, he had more success when he completed good preparatory work by his brother Mustapha.
Coming Sunday, both teams will meet again in Potchefstroom, but France will also play today. This time Germany is the opponent. South Africa will play against the Germans on Thursday.
South Africa-France 1-4 (0-2)
4.Gaspard Baumgarten 0-1
10.Blaise Rogeau 0-2
41.Gaspard Baumgarten 0-3
54.Timothée Clément 0-4
57.Dayaan Cassiem 1-4
