The U21 England Roses produced a brilliant display to overpower Fiji U21s 70-35 and claim a deserved bronze medal at the 2017 Netball World Youth Cup on Sunday.
It was a resilient performance following a draining semi-final against Australia on Friday evening as the Roses ensured that they finished the tournament on the podium.
Player of the Match George Fisher was once again in sparking form in the shooting circle and was ably supported by Sophie Drakeford-Lewis, making herself consistently available as a second option on the shot.
Amy Clinton was also introduced as England used their bench to good effect. The only downside was that Chiara Semple was unable to shake off the knock she picked-up in the quarter-final against Jamaica to make one last appearance in the competition.
England are blessed in the WA position with both Jess Shaw and Iona Darroch showing off their creative skills during this play-off encounter.
Vice-Captain Gabby Marshall once again dominated the mid-court with Imogen Allison and Vicki Oyesola adding extra defensive steel.
Summer Artman and Razia Quashie applied plenty of pressure on the Fijian attack with captain Francesca Williams leading by example with another accomplished display.
This was the best finish by an England team in this tournament since 2005 and showcased the excellent strength in depth we have with the current crop of Roses youngsters.
They also had to overcome adversity and show fantastic character during the World Cup in Botswana as several members of the squad feel ill during the group stage.
This is a team which has character, willingness and tenacity running throughout it and they return home with heads held high and a bronze medal around their neck.
The team representing England in Botswana were as follows;
Francesca Williams (captain), Gabriella Marshall (vice-captain), Summer Artman, Imogen Allison, Amy Clinton, Iona Darroch, Sophie Drakeford-Lewis, George Fisher, Vicki Oyesola, Razia Quashie, Jessica Shaw, Chiara Semple
Reserves: Halimat Adio, Amy Carter & Paige Reed
Staff: Emily Perry (Head Coach), Denise Ellis (Asst. Coach), Rachel Carter (Physio), Laura McAndrew (Team Manager) Philippa Turner (Doctor), Richard Handyside (Performance Analyst)
