Geva Mentor was delighted with the Vitality Roses’ final performance and result ahead of this summer’s Vitality Netball World Cup.
England defeated the Samsung Diamonds 52-49 on the last day of the Vitality Netball International Series, as part of the Netball Quad Series, but narrowly missed out on taking the title.
And Mentor said that the Quad Series was excellent preparation for the sport’s pinnacle event in July.
She said: “It was definitely a pretty pleasing performance in our last game of the Quad Series and was good to get a win, particularly after our performance against South Africa.
“It’s exactly what it’s going to be like during the Vitality Netball World Cup – you’re going to have to be able to back it up.
“Playing against the world number one we knew it was going to be a tough contest but beating the Samsung Diamonds is pretty sweet.”
The Copper Box Arena was sold out on Sunday and the fans raised the roof throughout the Vitality Roses’ game to spur the team on.
Commenting on the incredible support, Mentor said: “The crowd were phenomenal!
“I wish I could bring every single one of them up to Liverpool but I’m expecting Liverpool to be just as crazy.
“Their support is really going to get us over the line and having that immense atmosphere when you’re out there is almost like an eighth player on court.
“We speak of it but we can really feel it out there – it’s electrifying to play in front of and it really keeps you going.”
There’s no rest for the wicked as the Vitality Roses will now return to their respective clubs – in either England or Australia – to compete in the domestic leagues.
Make sure you’re following England Netball on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest news and updates!
Photo credit: Eliza Morgan
