England were denied by a last-second goal as Jamaica snatched a thrilling 49-49 draw in the opening game of the Netball Vitality Horizon Series.
Jamaica’s Shanice Beckford scored right at the end in Manchester to thwart Jess Thirlby’s side, who had led by six goals at half-time after Helen Housby’s long-range effort.
England were in front for three quarters but then slipped behind in the final stage before regaining their advantage, yet they were unable to hold on as Beckford converted a rebound.
The Vitality Horizon Series consists of four matches, with back-to-back games in Manchester – the second is at 2pm on Sunday – before meetings in Kingston, Jamaica on November 25 and 26.
England are second in the world rankings, behind reigning world champions Australia, and secured a notable 2-1 series victory in New Zealand earlier this autumn.
Jamaica had not played in a year before returning to action last week in the Fast5 World Series but impressed in Saturday’s stalemate.
England’s Eleanor Cardwell (injury) and Natalie Metcalf (pregnant) are missing the series, while Jamaica have called up England-born Rhea Dixon, who qualifies for the Sunshine Girls via her grandparents.
England vs Jamaica: Horizon Series schedule
All times UK and Ireland
- Saturday November 16 (Manchester): England 49-49 Jamaica
- Sunday November 17 (2pm in Manchester)
- Monday November 25 (12am in Kingston, Jamaica)
- Tuesday November 26 (12am in Kingston Jamaica)