The pool stage came to a close with another action-packed day of netball, featuring grit, determination, and moments of brilliance across the courts.
Samoa vs Northern Ireland
Samoa burst out of the blocks, scoring five quick goals in the opening minutes and applying tough defensive pressure. Their goalkeeper was relentless, leaping high and disrupting Northern Ireland’s attacking flow. Northern Ireland’s goal shooter, Emilia Gordon, showed impressive accuracy under pressure, while their goalkeeper, Tillie Irvine, made several strong interceptions to keep them in contention. The high passes and fast pace made it a thrilling contest, but Samoa’s intensity early on set the tone for their performance, ending in a 69-29 victory.
Scotland vs Singapore
Scotland claimed a 60-35 win, with their goalkeeper Cerys Finn standing out for multiple steals and defensive dominance. Singapore, led by co-captain and goalkeeper Faithmaria Ifeoma McKevin Lawrence, kept it close in the first quarter, trailing by just one goal at the break. By halftime, Scotland had edged six clear, and they extended their lead steadily in the second half. Strong midcourt control and consistent shooting saw them close out the match with a confident 60-35, but Singapore’s resilience shone throughout.
England vs Jamaica
England secured a 64-33 victory but were made to work hard by a determined Jamaican side. England’s shooters impressed with powerful jumps and sharp accuracy, supported by slick communication through their midcourt. Jamaica responded with creativity, especially in the second quarter, where their wing attack Tori Akinrinlola, opened up space and drove the ball forward with pace. Their goalkeeper, Roxonna McLean, also delivered multiple interceptions, keeping England under pressure. Although England proved too strong in the end, Jamaica’s spirited defence made them battle for every goal.
New Zealand vs Gibraltar
New Zealand continued their unbeaten run with a dominant 95-8 performance over hosts Gibraltar. The defending champions’ height and clinical shooting proved decisive, converting nearly every opportunity inside their circle. Gibraltar, backed by a passionate home crowd, fought with heart and displayed great teamwork, but struggled to break through New Zealand’s defensive wall. Despite the result, Gibraltar’s determination and unity on court earned plenty of support from the stands.
Malawi vs Barbados
Malawi claimed a strong win after a spirited start from Barbados. The Caribbean side landed some long-range shots in the first quarter and tightened their defence in the second to keep the pressure high. But Malawi answered with sharp midcourt connections, smooth circle entries, and a buzzer-beater goal to end the first quarter that energised their side. Consistent interceptions across the match allowed Malawi to take control and close it out with authority, ending in a 70-23 win.
South Africa vs Fiji
South Africa extended their unbeaten streak with a commanding 35-86 win. They capitalised on Fiji’s early turnovers, racing into a big halftime lead. Both teams displayed excellent shooting accuracy, but South Africa’s defensive intensity and quick conversions kept them firmly in control. Fiji fought hard to stay composed and produced some neat passages of play, but South Africa’s depth and consistency ensured another impressive result.
With the pool stages now complete, all eyes turn to the next phase of the competition as the race to the finals truly begins.
ENDS
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