netball australia vs. jamaica!

One of the hottest games of the Netball competition has been played out between Jamaica and Australia.

After an even first half, Australia had a dominant third quarter, extending their lead to 43-34 going into the fourth period.

The Australians continued to dominate in the early stages of the quarter, until Jamaica rallied to stage a brilliant comeback through the accuracy of shooters Elaine Davis and Simone Forbes.

Australia then lost control and the Jamaicans snatched the draw in the final seconds, 54-54 - the third time the two teams have drawn.

Although disappointed with the final score, Australia’s Sharelle McMahon congratulated her opponents on their performance.

"Full credit to Jamaica and also to our girls, we had some beautiful passages of play," she said. "We've got some things to work on but we did some great things too.”

The other day seven games have also been a battle to the end.

Samoa narrowly defeated Barbados, in a match that see-sawed until Samoa picked up its accuracy and defensive pressure.

Samoan goal shooter, Monika Fuimaono struggled to find her range, leaving goal attack Malu Faasavalu to take on most of the shots, keeping Samoa in front at half time, 25-16.

In the third quarter Barbados showed sparks of brilliance, but Samoa kept the upper hand.

In a bruising final quarter Barbados threw everything into their game, as the ever-steady shooting of Lydia Bishop and the inspiring brilliance of dynamic goal attack Latonia Blackman set the crowd alight. Samoa relied heavily on experience and composure to hold off the challengers, who came within three goals of toppling them.

South Africa won a thrilling match against Fiji, despite the lead changing hands at the change of ends.

In the second quarter, goal attack for South Africa, Lizanne Helmand, was in great form with sensational accuracy. The third quarter was also close, with South Africa limiting Fiji’s supply of the ball and both sides shooting 12 goals.

The Fijians came within three goals of the lead in the final quarter, but a composed South Africa saw out the game to finish 56-51.

"I'd just like to thank all the girls in the team for their effort in the last quarter. We fought hard and I love you all," said Fiji’s Matila Waganidrola. "Thanks to the crowd and all the supporters and especially to the Australian Fijians."