Tracey Neville’s side are out to make history in the Taini Jamison Trophy on Wednesday.
The England Roses have never recorded a three-match Series win over New Zealand, but will be hoping to build on the momentum from Sunday’s stunning win.
England victories over New Zealand are a bit like buses – you wait ages for one and then two come along at once!
Prior to the Quad Series, the Roses hadn’t beaten the Silver Ferns since the 28th October 2014 (won 42-38).
But after springing a surprise in the Quad Series, the England Roses took a thrilling 49-46 victory in Napier on Sunday to level the Taini Jamison Trophy at 1-1 heading into the deciding match on Wednesday.
A six goal lead for England midway through the third quarter was overturned by the Silver Ferns but the Roses hit back in the final two minutes to grab an astonishing win.
The Roses exuded confidence and determination and left absolutely everything on court.
Mid-court maestro Serena Guthrie deservedly picked up the Player of the Match award. She displayed her strong defensive tracking abilities, hassling and harrying the host’s midcourt to force numerous turnovers.
Geva Mentor delivered a typically strong performance, proving a real thorn in the side of the Silver Ferns’ shooters with the usually clinical Maria Tutaia seeing her shooting stats drop to just 50 percent (8/16).
Chelsea Pitman continues to be a dominant force in the Roses’ mid-court during the tour to Australia and New Zealand, combining effectively with Jo Harten, Kadeen Corbin and Helen Housby. Janine Southby introduced debutant Claire Kersten on Sunday to try and reduce Pitman’s impact on proceedings but the mid-courter’s class and experience shone through.
The impact of the Roses’ full-time programme is clear to see and the team are ready and raring to go against the Silver Ferns tomorrow.
The Taini Jamison Trophy decider will be shown LIVE on Sky Sports Mix, Arena and Main Event, meaning netball fans all over the country can keep fully up to date with the action as it happens.
You can also follow the England Roses on tour via our official Twitter account @England_Netball and make sure you send the team your messages of support using #WeAreRoses.
For further stats from Sunday’s game please visit – http://www.mynetball.co.nz/silver-ferns/match-day/new-world-netball-series-taini-jamison-trophy/game-2.html
The England Roses are next in action on home soil against the Malawi Queens this November. Grab your tickets to the three-match Vitality Netball International Series here.
#WeAreRoses
