In a thrilling showdown, Australia has defeated England 61-45, to clinch victory in the Netball World Cup for an incredible 12th time.
The Diamonds came out firing, taking an early two-goal lead, with Steph Wood proving to be a driving force on the attack. However, England’s coach, Jess Thirlby, was quick to make tactical adjustments, introducing Fran Williams in the goal defence position, causing the Roses to close the gap and equalise the score at 12-12.
Australia expertly maintained possession and entered the first break tied at 13-13, setting the stage for a nail-biting encounter.
As the match progressed, the Diamonds navigated through the England defence and capitalised on scoring opportunities. Jo Weston’s formidable presence at goal defence and Courtney Bruce’s heroic saves in the goalkeeping position thwarted England’s attempts to control of the game.
At halftime, Australia had built a crucial four-goal lead, but the Roses refused to back down. In the third quarter, the Diamonds intensified their onslaught, appearing one step ahead of their opponents throughout the period.
England, to their credit, fought hard to secure victory but Australia’s consistency allowed them to maintain a ten-goal lead going into the final break.
In the closing minutes, England launched a spirited comeback effort, desperately attempting to bridge the gap. However, the Diamonds stood their ground, staying true to their winning strategy and demonstrating why they are the world’s top-ranked team.
As the final whistle echoed through the stadium, fans erupted in celebration of Australia’s 12th Netball World Cup victory.
As fans in the stadium expressed their elation at the win, the same took place around the globe as fans took to social media to praise Australia for their victory.
Retiring Diamonds star Ash Brazill, said she couldn’t have hoped for “a better ending” to the team’s World Cup journey and her sporting career.
“For the last 10 minutes, I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face,” she told reporters after the match.
“England beat us in the rounds and everyone loved targeting us, Helen (Housby, England star) said they were fitter and more energetic than us and that just got everyone fighting.
“We really wanted to beat Jamaica (in the semi-final) so we could play against these guys again, and we’ve done it the way we wanted to. The last two games were some of the best netball we’ve played in a long time.
“I’m so proud of these girls. The fact we’re standing here as world champions, I just couldn’t wish for a better ending. I’ll never play netball again – how can I top this?”