England secured a 58-54 victory over South Africa to advance to the netball semi-finals, where they will face New Zealand.
Key facts
- •England trailed by six goals after the first quarter.
- •Lois Pearson recorded a perfect shooting performance with 17 goals from 17 shots.
- •Halimat Adio was introduced in the third quarter to defend against Elmerè van der Berg.
- •England will play New Zealand in the semi-final on Saturday.
- •Coach Anna Stembridge credited the team's ability to handle pressure and trust one another.
England overcame a six-goal first-quarter deficit to defeat South Africa 58-54, securing a spot in the netball semi-finals. The win ensures England avoids missing the final four for the first time since the sport's 1998 Games introduction. England will now face New Zealand in the semi-final on Saturday.
By the numbers
Overcoming early challenges
England entered the match following a 66-47 loss to Australia, which left their qualification hopes uncertain. South Africa’s goal shooter Elmerè van der Berg dominated the opening quarter, and England faced further adversity when centre Imogen Allison left the court with an ankle injury early in the second quarter.
Turning the tide
England rallied before half-time, narrowing the deficit to a single goal. The introduction of goal defence Halimat Adio in the third quarter proved pivotal, as she successfully contained Van der Berg. Lois Pearson maintained high accuracy throughout the match, finishing with 17 goals from 17 attempts to help the team secure a 43-39 lead heading into the final period.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Guardian Sport.
