The English netball team suffered a 61-54 loss to New Zealand in the semi-finals of the Commonwealth Games, unable to overcome their opponents despite a valiant effort. From the late stages of the first quarter onwards, Anna Stembridge's team attempted to keep pace with their adversaries, but the match remained an uphill struggle, with England never managing to take the lead against the Silver Ferns. New Zealand's potent offense, spearheaded by the impressive Grace Nweke, ultimately proved too formidable at Glasgow's Hydro.
By the conclusion of the third quarter, England's defeat seemed all but certain, with a substantial deficit remaining and only seven minutes left to play. A late surge of goals, met with minimal resistance from the Silver Ferns, narrowed the final score. An emotional Eleanor Cardwell, who was introduced early into the game for England, expressed her disappointment to TNT Sports, stating, 'I believe we gave it our all today, but they were the superior team. I'm somewhat disheartened by our performance, knowing we're capable of better.' England will now face Australia in the bronze medal match after Jamaica secured a stunning one-point victory over the reigning champions.
Meanwhile, New Zealand has advanced to the Commonwealth Games final for the first time since 2014.