England and Jamaica draw 49-49 in first match of Netball Horizon Series as visitors score last-second goal

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.