New Zealand vs England 2021: Brilliant England run out 55-45 winners to take Cadbury Series to third-Test decider | Netball News

The three-match series will come to a close on Friday – with the Taini Jamison Trophy on the line; Game Three is available on the Sky Sports YouTube channel, with coverage also available on Sky Sports Arena & Mix from 8am

England’s sensational third quarter turned around the second Test against New Zealand and powered the Roses to a spectacular 55-45 victory that takes the three-game Cadbury Series to a decider in Christchurch on Friday.

After pushing the world champions close in Monday’s opening Test, only to fall short when they drew within touching distance, it was a different story for Jess Thirlby’s squad, who overturned a three-goal half-time deficit before surging across the finish line.

The Roses had turned over plenty of ball throughout the early stages of the contest but had been unable to capitalise on the defence’s excellent work until the third quarter when the game turned on its head.

Trailing by 24-21 at half-time, England – inspired by the defence of a bloodied Geva Mentor, the unstoppable Layla Guscoth and the near-flawless George Fisher in the shooter’s bib – outscored the world champions 16-10.

Rather than buckle under the pressure, Thirlby’s squad went from strength-to-strength down the final 15 minutes as they outscored New Zealand by another seven goals to run out 55-45 winners.

Fisher and substitute Sophie Drakeford-Lewis were near flawless under the post as the Roses closed out the game, ensuring both teams go into Friday’s third Test with a chance to claim the Taini Jamison Trophy and a thrilling series, played at furious pace, gets a fitting conclusion.

More to follow…..

Watch live coverage on Sky Sports Arena, Mix and YouTube channel of England’s series in New Zealand as Jess Thirlby’s squad continue preparations for the defence of their Commonwealth Games gold medal in Birmingham in 2022