KINGSTON, Jamaica – The young Sunshine Girls suffered their first defeat at the World Youth Netball Championships today, losing to the gold medal favourites New Zealand 53-44, in their semi final match. 

The Jamaicans played well and got out to an early 3-0 lead but New Zealand quickly got over the nerves to take the first quarter 15-13.

In the second quarter New Zealand really began to show their class as the young Sunshine Girls had one too many turnovers and were left trailing 31-19 at half-time.

In the third quarter Jamaica clawed their way back into the match as they out played New Zealand to go into the final quarter leading by one, 38-37.

In the final quarter New Zealand came back with a vengeance and took the game away from the Jamaicans, winning 53-44. 

New Zealand will play in the gold medal match against the other netball powerhouse Australia, who earlier demolished England 67-33.

Jamaica and England will play in the bronze medal match on Saturday.