The Vitality Roses, who represent England at netball, are celebrating after winning the Netball Nations Cup for the first time. The Roses beat South Africa 61-55 in a closely fought match at London’s Copper Box Arena.
The tournament was first held in 2012, and England have reached the final five times. However, they have never won the trophy before. The Uganda Cranes beat the Malawi Queens in the third place play off.
Vitality Roses Head Coach Jess Thirlby commented on the result to England Netball reporters, saying: “We really had to earn that [win], real credit to South Africa. It was always set up to be a brilliant final and it’s the type of match we need to be in…. It wasn’t pretty at times, but we’ve got to find joy in the grind, and I think we did that pretty well today.”
The England defender Fummi Fadoju was named Player of the Match, and goal shooter Liv Tchine was named Vitality Player of the Series.
Liv commented: “I was actually shocked but I’m really happy that I was able to do it, and I wouldn’t have been able to without the support of the girls, they made it so much easier for me.”
“We came out and knew South Africa were going to come out stronger and they did. The first quarter they really came out and showed they meant business, but we knew that we weren’t going to slack so I’m happy that we were able to find that extra one percent, that extra gear to go and win.”
The success of the England netball team is inspiring a new generation of girls to get involved in netball. It’s not only an exciting game and a great way to keep fit, but it also helps to build-self esteem and social skills, and leads to new friendships.
If you are interested in joining our Kingston netball lessons, please get in touch today.