Netball Nations Cup: England defeat South Africa to become champions for first time

England have won the Netball Nations Cup for the first time by beating South Africa 61-55 in the final.

The Roses had reached the final on five previous occasions since it began in 2012 but they had never won the title.

South Africa had beaten England 61-59 in the round-robin stage of the tournament a week ago.

The Proteas were 15-12 up in the first quarter on Sunday but England fought back to claim victory at a raucous Copper Box Arena in London.

Roses goal defence Funmi Fadoju made six deflections, six interceptions and six gains and was named player of the match.

The Proteas went down to six players in the third quarter because of suspensions, but they still managed to put pressure on England and were three points behind going into the final 15 minutes.

However, even when the Proteas returned to full strength, England’s calm and controlled play enabled them to extend their lead and dampen any hopes of a South Africa fightback.

Earlier on Sunday, Uganda defeated Malawi 50-45 in the third-place play-off match.