Thunder pair on top of the world

DELIGHT: England celebrate their World Netball Series success. Pictured are Jo Harten (left), Sara Bayman, Stacey Francis, Kadeen Corbin, Emma Dovey, Molly Rhone (IFNA president), Eboni Beckford Chambers, Anna Mayes (head coach), Sasha Corbin, Laura Malcolm, Jade Clarke (captain), Pamela Cookey, Serena Guthrie and Rachel Dunn.

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Netball:

NORTHERN Thunder pair Sara Bayman and Emma Dovey helped hosts England become World Netball Series champions following a thrilling 33-26 triumph over New Zealand in the final.

Having finished fourth in the table, Anna Mayes’ side were seen by many as outsiders.

But a 27-17 win at the expense of Australia in the last-four sealed their place in the final, and a comprehensive victory saw skipper and ex-Thunder and Oldham star Jade Clarke lift the trophy.

Clarke said: “It was so good to wake up with a gold medal.

“We have had massive support from everyone there, plus on Facebook and Twitter. It is a great day for netball in England.”

Nerves were evident in the semi-final showdown with Australia but a third-quarter powerplay swung the contest for England.

Wai Taumanu’s New Zealand edged out Jamaica 30-29 in the second semi-final.

All eyes turned to the climax of the tournament. The Silver Ferns of New Zealand led by a solitary point at the half-way point, but powerplay in the third went in England’s favour.

Accurate shooting, powerful defending and smooth passing pushed the home outfit ahead with six minutes remaining and, despite two close calls late on, they held on to claim a memorable win.