The England netball team has secured a resounding 2-0 series victory over Jamaica, following a dominant 81-30 win at the Copper Box Arena in London on Sunday. This comprehensive performance comes on the back of their 80-37 triumph on Saturday, showcasing the team's clinical display and ruthless approach to the game.
England's coach, Jess Thirlby, was impressed with her team's performance, stating that ruthlessness and purpose were key factors in their success. The team's ability to see games out and maintain their intensity throughout was evident in the scoreline. Thirlby acknowledged that Jamaica would likely be stronger in the future, but for now, England should be proud of their achievement.
The series win is a significant boost for England, who were looking to bounce back from their 2-1 loss to Jamaica in the inaugural 2024 Horizon series. That defeat saw Jamaica leapfrog England in the world rankings, taking third place. However, with the 2025 series reduced to just two matches in England due to the cancellation of the fixtures in Jamaica, England has capitalized on the opportunity to regain momentum.
Jamaica's preparation for the series was severely impacted by the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, which forced the cancellation of the matches in Kingston. The team's players were involved in the relief efforts, distributing care packages, and were unable to train as a squad. England Netball has shown its support for the Jamaican team by donating £1 from every Horizon Series ticket sold to Netball Jamaica's chosen charity, World Central Kitchen, and also allowing fans to contribute to the British Red Cross' Disaster Fund.
England Netball will donate £1 from every Horizon Series ticket sold to Netball Jamaica's chosen charity, World Central Kitchen, and has also announced fans will be able to contribute to the British Red Cross' Disaster Fund.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the Horizon Series provides crucial game time for both nations, with less than a year to go until the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. England's coach, Jess Thirlby, expressed her respect for the Jamaican team and hoped that the players who were injured during the series would recover soon.
Helen Housby was named player of the series, following her clinical display in goal attack. Her performance was instrumental in England's success, and she was praised by her coach for her clinical display. In Saturday's match, captain Fran Williams was named player of the match, leading by example, while Eleanor Cardwell continued her recovery from a serious knee injury. Natalie Metcalf also made her return to the court, playing for the first time since having a baby seven months ago.
Cardwell spoke about her experience, saying: "The girls make it so easy coming into camp, which just makes it easy when you get on court. It felt really connected," She also reflected on her journey, stating that she had learned a lot and that it would make her a better netballer. The team's camaraderie and support for each other were evident in their performances, and they will look to build on this momentum in the lead-up to the Commonwealth Games.
In conclusion, England's series win over Jamaica is a significant achievement, and the team will look to build on this momentum in the lead-up to the Commonwealth Games. With their clinical display and ruthless approach, they have demonstrated their strength and determination, and they will be a force to be reckoned with in the future.
Original: BBC Sport
Image: BBC Sport
Written by Npsports
