England v New Zealand at the Netball World Cup is live on Sky Sports
Friday 14 August 2015 17:29, UK
Wins for England and New Zealand on day eight of the Netball World Cup have set-up a tantalising semi-final in Sydney on Saturday morning.
It will be third versus second in the world rankings as two sides, who have been incredibly closely matched in recent times, go head-to-head with the winner progressing into Sunday’s final - and it's live on Saturday morning at 3am on Sky Sports 4 HD.
The two nations clashed four times in 2014 with the Silver Ferns coming out on top on three occasions but England did claim a famous away victory in October.
New Zealand have been crowned world champions four times while the Roses’ best result was a second-place finish in 1975 when the championships were played in a league table format.
If England are to overcome the challenge that lies ahead, they will create history by becoming the first Roses side to reach a World Cup final.
What’s most important is that we are aware of what we are doing, that we are playing the ‘England way’ and that we are consistent with that
England’s Stacey Francis said: “It’s what we came for, but we were fully aware that we had to go through a process to get there.
“Everybody has had really valuable time on court which is really going to put us into fantastic stead leading into what will be two incredibly competitive matches.”
The defender acknowledges playing the best in the world brings its challenges so England may have to adapt their style.
She added: “You have to show respect to Australia and New Zealand when you’re coming up against both sides.
"They will each hold their own levels of difficulty, it just means that we adjust the game plan slightly.
“What’s most important is that we are aware of what we are doing, that we are playing the ‘England way’ and that we are consistent with that when we step out on court.”
As the tournament enters its final stages, Francis says the team have focused on one match at a time.
“We were going game by game," she said. "We were aware that if we didn’t put in performances and didn’t get the results we needed, we wouldn’t even be in a semi-final.
“It’s a huge game tomorrow - massive - but we are ready for it and excited at the prospect of making history.”
And if that's not enough early morning netball for you, stay up for second semi-final between Australia and Jamaica at 5.15am!
The Diamonds, as host nation and world No 1s, will be heavily favoured but wary of an upset from the colourful and eccentric Sunshine Girls.
England versus New Zealand will be shown live exclusively on Sky Sports 4 from 3am. Non-subscribers can also see matches without a contract through online streaming service NOW TV.
By purchasing a Sky Sports Day Pass for £6.99 or Sky Sports Week Pass for £10.99, you can enjoy access to all seven Sky Sports channels and watch on a TV with a NOW TV Box or on a range of devices.
