Barbados took full advantage of a slow start by St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) on Friday, July 8, to register a first quarter 14-5 lead, in the opening salvo of the Invitational Netball Series between hosts Bajan Gems and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines at the Sir Garfield Sobers Gymnasium in Barbados.

The second quarter was a much closer affair as Barbados outscored SVG by two goals – the second quarter ending 25 – 14.

In the third quarter, nine goals were scored by each team; the third quarter ending 34 – 23 in favour of the Bajan Gems.

In the final quarter, while SVG maintained a nine goal success, the Gems netted 14 to win the match 48 – 32.

For the touring SVG team, goal-shoot Maryann Frederick netted 26 from 34 attempts, while goal-attack Shellisa Davis scored six from 10 attempts.

For Barbados, goal-shoot Shonica Warren scored 24 from 27 attempts, in the first, second, and third quarters before she was substituted.

Substitute goal-shoot Faye Sealey scored 13 from 14 attempts, while goal-attack Brianna Holder scored 11 from 15, as the Bajan Gems won the first game 48 – 32, taking a 1-nil Series lead in the process.

The second and third games are on Saturday July 9, and Sunday July 10, 2022 at the Sir Garfield Sobers Gymnasium. The two teams are using the Series as part of their preparations for upcoming international engagements. Barbados is preparing for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, and the World Netball Qualifiers which will also see participation by SVG.