Reigning world champions Australia defeat England in Liverpool
Thursday 21 January 2016 14:12, UK
Reigning world champions Australia proved too strong for a new-look England in the first of a three-match series as they ran out 58-52 winners at a sold out Echo Arena in Liverpool.
The Roses looked to apply quick transition through mid-court during the early stages, but the visitors took the pace off the ball around the circle edge in order to slow the speed of the game as they hit the goal third.
The combination of Gretel Tippett, Natalie Medhurst and dual-gold medallist goalscorer Caitlin Thwaites helped the Diamonds to a narrow 17-15 lead in an engaging opening quarter.
Goal Attack Helen Housby was showing her quick mobility and solid defence to keep Tracey Neville's side in the contest while Jade Clarke and Sara Bayman were starting to gain the upper-hand in mid-court.
But despite taking a two-goal lead, errors crept into their game which allowed Australia to take a 30-26 lead at the break.
The best netballer in the world Caitlin Bassett was introduced for the second half by head coach Lisa Alexander.
With the queen of goal shooting and the strength of Sharni Layton on court, Australia extended their lead to 45-38.
Neville resisted making changes for the final quarter, despite the seven point deficit, and the metronomic Housby and Rachel Dunn helped England to close the gap to three with under six minutes remaining.
Medhurst kept Australia calm under the barrage of pressure while Layton's driving force annoying the home side, eventually helping the Diamonds to victory.
"The team have had a real challenging three months and that's really picked the team up in terms of confidence levels," Neville told Sky Sports.
"The tough times they've had made them better and I think as a team we are ready for the next test. Just seeing what opportunities we can get from that and the learning we get from that - those are the improvements we want to make over the three test matches."
Can England level the series against Australia? Watch the second test from London's Copper Box Arena on Sky Sports 1 HD at 7pm this Friday.
And don't forget, the brand new Netball Superleague season tips off with Super Saturday on January 30 - only on Sky Sports.
