The winds of change are blowing through the Banyana Banyana set-up, and coach Desiree Ellis is convinced that this will benefit the team going forward.
Banyana are fresh from two international friendlies against COSAFA neighbours Malawi, winning both matches 30 and 21, respectively. These games primarily served as preparation for their defence of the Womens Africa Cup of Nations WAFCON crown in July.
Ellis experienced a rollercoaster of emotions in response to the results, feeling the team could have won by larger margins and managed the tempo better. Nonetheless, she was able to introduce relatively new faces into the squad, blending them with senior players.
Casey Gordon earned her maiden cap, while Shakira OMalley and Kgaelebane Mohlakoana returned to the fold following their debuts and respective prolonged absences. Ellis also welcomed back regulars Thembi Kgatlana, Jermaine Seoposenwe and Hildah Magaia, who had missed the two friendlies against Lesotho.
It was important for Ellis to have a strong mix of youth and experience, as the two matches also marked the final appearances for veterans Noko Matlou, 39, and Nompumelelo Nyandeni, 37. Matlou made her 174th and final appearance for Banyana on Saturday, while Nyandeni donned the national jersey for the 150th and final time on Tuesday in Atteridgeville.