England's netball team lost to Australia 68-50 in the bronze medal match at the Commonwealth Games. The defeat followed a frustrating semi-final loss to New Zealand the previous day.
Australia, ranked world number one, entered the bronze medal contest after an unexpected semi-final defeat to Jamaica. England had less recovery time after their own semi-final loss. The match saw a lively start, with England's captain Fran Williams applying pressure that led to an Australian shot miss. Liv Tchine then scored to give England an early lead.
Despite England's efforts to disrupt Australia's forward passing, the Australian team, known as the Diamonds, found their rhythm. They overturned a deficit to lead 19-11 by the end of the first quarter. In the second period, England's side, coached by Anna Stembridge, struggled to maintain momentum and showed signs of fatigue against Australia's established shooting partnership.
Australia extended their lead to 35-24 by halftime. In the third quarter, with Australia holding a 16-point advantage, England introduced shooter Eleanor Cardwell. Her presence helped England score five unanswered goals, reducing the deficit to 49-36 with 15 minutes remaining.
Australia, aiming to reassert their dominance after their semi-final upset, displayed a professional performance. England once again fell short against a top-tier opponent, losing by one fewer point than they did to Australia during the pool stage of the tournament. Jamaica will play New Zealand for the gold medal.