THEY share a fierce sporting sibling rivalry but Forest Green winger Kurtis Guthrie will be glued to his TV this afternoon to cheer on his older sister at the Commonwealth Games.

England netball star and Team Bath captain Serena Guthrie,24, is in action against South Africa (5pm) and her 21-year-old brother will be at the venue ‘in spirit’.

“My footballing schedule prevents me from watching her in the flesh but I am watching every game on TV and I am with her in spirit,” said Guthrie, who joined Forest Green on a two-year deal from Welling in June.

“Our family are so proud of her. From a young age she pushed herself to the limit and she continues to do that.”

The Guthries grew up in Jersey and maintained a sporting competitiveness during their formative years.

Kurtis added: “We have always been competing in every sport we’ve tried but have always supported each other.

The route to Commonwealth Games glory looks to have become tougher for Serena after England suffered a dramatic 49-48 defeat to Australia in Pool B.

England led for the majority of a tough and absorbing content with their fierce rivals and ended a fine third quarter 39-36 in front. Australia inched back in front with eight minutes to go but, with England a point up, Caitlin Bassett grabbed the winning goal to deny them.

The result means England – who beat Wales 65-25 in their opening match on Friday – are likely to play Commonwealth champions New Zealand in the semi-finals.