England’s Vitality Roses produced a confident and dominant performance at the Copper Box Arena in London, defeating a determined Jamaica 80-37.
England set the tone early with quick ball movement and sharp attacking play. Liv Chine was under the posts, scoring 14 goals in the first quarter, while Helen Housby added eight with 100 per cent accuracy.
Lois Pearson played a key role in midfield, completing 16 passes as Vitality Roses led 22-9 at the first break.
In the second quarter, Vitality Roses continue to dominate possession and tempo. The Sunshine Girls worked hard to build momentum but could not disrupt their rhythm.
Chin and Housby combined for another 17 goals, allowing the Vitality Roses to extend their lead to 41-18 at halftime.
Jamaica showed more intensity after the break, but the Roses defense remained composed and disciplined, limiting scoring opportunities and forcing turnovers. They kept their structure and control to take a 60-28 lead into the final quarter.
The Roses finished strong, adding 20 goals in the final term as the Sunshine Girls began to fade.
Captain Fran Williams was named vital player of the match after an excellent performance and showed strong leadership throughout the game.
England are quickly focusing on Sunday’s match, where they will look to continue their form and challenge for the Ron Hornsby Trophy.
Vitality Netball Horizon Series Schedule
The first two games of the series originally scheduled to be played in Jamaica were canceled due to the impact of Hurricane Melissa, so the series will only see two games, both of which will be played in London.
Saturday 13 December: Copper Box Arena, London
England 80-37 Jamaica
Sunday December 14: Copper Box Arena, London
England – Jamaica, 14.15
Times are subject to slight changes due to broadcast requirements