BARBADOS BEAT JAMAICA in netball for the first time since 1984 last night as they rallied to a 43-41 win at the National Arena in Kingston.
The result meant the three-match Test series ended in a tie following Sunday night’s win for Jamaica and last Friday’s 44-44 draw between the sides.
Bajan Gems captain Rhe-Ann Niles and Sheniqua Thomas who were named Best Defender and Best Shooter of the series.
Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls had a point to prove to their coach Jermaine Allison-McCracken, who criticised their performance after Sunday night’s 40-34 win, and they came out strong in the opening quarter, as they quickly moved to an 11-8 lead at the end of the period. Goal shooter Thristina Harwood was very dominant for them, as she netted 10 of the team’s 11 goals.
The Jamaicans fought gallantly in the second period to maintain their three-goal lead, with Harwood outmuscling the Barbadian defenders, to score all of the team’s ten goals in the period. She was well assisted by goal attack Rebekah Robinson. Jamaica’s defensive unit of Shameera Sterling, Jodiann Ward and Melissa Wright also played well and as they forced Barbados into a number of turnovers.
The Sunshine Girls established a six-goal lead early in the third quarter, through goal shooter Shimona Nelson, who replaced Harwood at the start of the period. Nelson scored nine of the team’s 11 goals. However, Barbados rallied to close the quarter strongly and reduced the deficit to 32-31 at the end of the period.
The fourth quarter was excitingly contested, as the Barbadians rallied to level the game at 35-35 with four minutes remaining in the match. However, Barbados shut down the Sunshine Girls’ attackers, who seemed to panic as they made five turnovers in the final two minutes to record their first ever victory over Jamaica. (Jamaica Gleaner/NB)
