The Vitality Roses suffered a 26-32 defeat to South Africa in their opening fixture at the Fast5 Netball World Series.
There was nothing to separate the two sides at the end of the opening quarter (8-8) and although the Vitality Roses led going into the second quarter power play, it was South Africa who edged in front heading into the second half after landing a four pointer.
Kat Ratnapala's side were back within one at the start of the third quarter but the game quickly turned with a super shot from the Proteas to give them a two-point advantage (23-25) with six minutes to play.
England were giving everything to take the win and trailed by just two heading into the power play. With less than 20 seconds on the clock and South Africa out in front, the Vitality Roses needed a super shot but couldn't make it.
In her first appearance in an England dress, Elle McDonald was named Player of the Match.
Up next, the Vitality Roses face 2018 champions and hosts New Zealand at 4:45am UK time.
UK and international viewers can watch all the games live on Netball Pass. Viewers can register to the online platform for free at: netballpass.com
