THE BAJAN GEMS will now turn their attention to international opponents after two successful regional netball Test series.
This evening, the Barbados senior netball team beat Trinidad and Tobago Calypso Girls 44-40 at the National Cycling Centre in Couva for a three-match sweep.
This follows a highly successful trip to Jamaica where they won one match, lost one and drew another.
Coach Sandra Bruce-Small took full advantage of the series to see who was available and how they would play together, starting a different seven for the third straight match.
Goal shooter Shonica Wharton was partnered with former captain Latonia Blackman, while Damisha Croney, Tonisha Rock-Yaw and Theresa Howell took charge of the centre. The pair of captain Rhe-Ann Niles and Shonette Bruce was the last line of defence.
Barbados took an early 9-4 lead and closed the quarter 14-7.
Centre Tonisha Rock-Yaw watching as goal shooter Shonica Wharton prepares to receive a pass.
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The Calypso Girls made a run in the second period to cut the lead by five; and as the teams exchanged goals, the Gems took a 23-18 lead into the half.
Barbados had a productive third, scoring 11 goals with Sheniqua Thomas at goal attack, the versatile Blackman moving to centre and Sade Browne making her senior debut at wing defence.
The lead jumped to nine goals, but was soon reduced as the hosts made a strong start to the quarter.
Gems were forced to adjust again after Bruce picked up an injury. Blackman switched to goal defence, Niles took up goalkeeper duties and Rock-Yaw returned to centre.
Trinidad slashed the lead to four (41-37) before Bruce-Small called for Rashida Chase to replace Browne, and so it would remain until the final whistle.
Barbados won the first two matches 46-32 and 49-37.
From June 19 to 23, Barbados will play in the Summer Quad Series featuring hosts Northern Ireland, Singapore and Ireland.
Barbados are ranked 12th in the world and are trying to secure ranking points for next year’s Commonwealth Games in Australia.
Summarised scores: Barbados 44 (Shonica Wharton 31/34, Latonia Blackman 10/11, Sheniqua Thomas 3/6). Trinidad and Tobago 40 (Joelisa Cooper 23/28, Tahirah Hollingsworth 16/24, Jameelah McCarthy 1/3). (SAT)
Shonette Bruce and Rhe-Ann Niles defending as Trinidad and Tobago look to score.
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