By Muhammad Dhakaba Menya
Buoyed by their first victory over Sri Lanka on Monday at the Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town, Singapore produced an impressive start in their Group E clash against Barbados on Tuesday.
Barbados had dominated all five previous Netball World Cup meetings between these two teams, with their most recent encounter resulting in a convincing 69-34 victory at the 2019 global tournament in Liverpool. In the opening quarter, it seemed that the Bajan Gems’ unblemished head-to-head record might be at risk as Singapore took the lead with a score of 13-12 at the first break.
However, Singapore’s momentum waned somewhat in the second quarter, and a strategic move by Barbados, shifting Latonia Blackman to goal attack and Kadeen Corbin to goal shooter, made a significant difference. The experienced Blackman was playing at a record-equalling sixth Netball World Cup, while Corbin, who was part of the England team that secured Commonwealth Games gold in 2018, now showcased her talent with Barbados. With renewed intensity, Barbados pulled away in the second quarter, leading 29-24 at halftime.
As in many of their previous matches, Barbados’ intensity dipped in the third quarter, allowing Singapore to make a strong comeback. Singapore exerted more defensive pressure, equalizing at 33-all and then maintaining the level until the final break, with the score tied at 40-40.
The final quarter began with three unanswered goals from Kadeen Corbin, giving Barbados the advantage once again. This time, they held on to secure a hard-fought 55-50 victory. Corbin’s exceptional performance earned her the title of Most Valuable Player.
Reflecting on the match, Corbin expressed her happiness with the win and acknowledged the grueling schedule faced by the teams, playing five days in a row. She emphasized the team’s collective effort and determination to dig deep and find the energy needed to secure the victory.
