Netball Europe: England beat Northern Ireland to win title

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England's victorious netball teamImage source, Other
Image caption,

England celebrate after their victory in Belfast

England lifted the Netball Europe Championship crown in style with a 64-22 victory over hosts Northern Ireland in Belfast.

Tracey Neville's side followed up convincing wins over Scotland and Wales to go through the tournament unbeaten.

The hosts started brightly and led 12-9 after the first quarter, but England responded with 14 unanswered points.

Helen Housby and Pamela Cookey led the scoring while Sonia Mkoloma and Stacey Francis impressed in defence.

A quick-passing game paid dividends and as Irish heads started to drop, England were relentless in stretching their lead.

Captain Cookey was also named player of the tournament as her side continue their preparations for the World Cup, which will be held in Sydney in August.

Northern Ireland had to settle for third place in the tournament after Wales's 43-28 win over Scotland earlier in the day. The hosts needed to finish within 25 points of England to come second.

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