After a thrilling 46-40 victory over the defending champions New Zealand in Cape Town, England made history by becoming the first team to ever play in the Netball World Cup final.
The Roses continued on course to become the only country other than Australia or New Zealand to win the trophy in the modern period, and at the conclusion of an exciting semi-final, scenes of celebration broke out on their bench.
Co-captain Layla Guscoth stated, “This team has received a lot of criticism in the last year, everyone deserves [this] so much,” as she sobbed in joy at the conclusion as England made history.
England make history by reaching first Netball World Cup final
“We’re really appreciative to have the opportunity to compete in a World Cup final… We have a party, take a break, and return the following day.
It feels fantastic, according to Jess Thirlby, the England coach. I’m feeling a little overpowered. That is the most rewarding method to win a game.
“I wanted to assist us go to a World Cup final, which for us would be a first for the Roses squad.
The same thing is desired by everyone. Every side will claim that they are close and that they have developed, but for the last few games, this season has had a completely different vibe.
“There are moments when you just have to maintain your composure through the highs and lows, the victories and the defeats, and we have.
We haven’t really demonstrated the ability to finish a game goal for goal yet. But to defeat Australia and then close a match in that manner with a five or six goal run against the champs in the previous year.
“I believe that our game’s mental component has significantly changed. Sometimes it takes 56 minutes to receive a prize, but they persevered and eventually did.
Despite being the underdog against the Silver Ferns on Thursday after winning just one of the previous 15 games between the two teams, England defeated Australia 56–55.
With five minutes remaining and the score 40-40, Fran Williams produced the pivotal play, making a superb, clean interception as the Roses increased their advantage in a nail-biting game.
England make history by reaching first Netball World Cup final
Then, as England added five points without a response, Imogen Allison made another key move to maintain the ball in play. Helen Housby then completed the historic victory.
At the conclusion, England rejoiced as “Netball’s Coming Home” was sung, ensuring Thirlby’s team at least a silver medal from the competition in South Africa. In the Sunday final, they will either play Jamaica or South Africa.
