Ellie Cardwell scored 34 objectives as England bought off to a winning start of their Netball International Series against South Africa in Manchester.
In their first dwelling match since claiming the runners-up spot within the World Cup in August, the hosts held off a powerful South African fightback to come back by 54-51 within the first of their three-match sequence.
Jess Thirlby, the top coach, handed out 5 debuts and England began effectively with Imogen Allison particularly spectacular as they completed the primary quarter with a 16-11 benefit.
England prolonged their result in eight factors after the second quarter however South Africa edged the third by a degree and got here on robust late on, forcing the Roses to carry on to safe their win.
“We know we’ve got more to come but that is really exciting,” Thirlby informed Sky Sports. “I am really pleased with the players that came off the bench as they are perceived to be the lesser experienced ones.
“There were some really pleasing signs and to know we’ve got more to come but to still be able to take a win against a stellar team like South Africa, with some really experienced players, is a great sign.”
Fran Williams captained England for the primary time whereas Cardwell, Funmi Fadoju and Allison featured for the primary time because the World Cup.
“It felt great to be back out there,” Allison, who was named participant of the match, informed Sky Sports.
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“You could feel they were on a run [in the final quarter] so it was important to stay connected as a unit. We went a bit quiet in the third quarter so that’s maybe why she moved me to wing defence so I had more in my lungs to shout.
“This squad is really special. It is really special to be there. We’re really gelling as a team and coming together. There is a huge sense of pride. We are loving the journey.”
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