In the midst of the Constellation Cup showdown between the Silver Ferns of New Zealand and competitors Australia, the Silver Ferns recoup and reassess after a 55-46 defeat on Australian turf. Behind 2-0 in the series of four, the team holds firm to the prospect of a home court reprieve with the following matches to be held in New Zealand.
Their second match was graced by the return of acclaimed shooter Grace Nweke – marking her first game time since recovering from a knee injury suffered during the Netball World Cup. Despite being on measured time, Nweke shone during the second and fourth quarters, arguably the standout durations for the Silver Ferns.
The first and third quarters mirrored the team’s fledgling maturity and the steady cultivation of a firm groundwork as the team forms new alliances and tactics under its belt.
Head Coach Dame Noeline Taurua made strategic adjustments in player positions and combinations, noting a gradual return on these investments in team progression.
“We may have dwindled the point gap by a notch but we possess a trove more to offer. We’re earnestly anticipating getting back home on New Zealand soil,” articulated Captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio.
She truthfully acknowledged the prowess exhibited by the Australian team, expressing that the Silver Ferns must step up and face the challenge head-on. While acknowledging their class, she remained adamant about readiness for the remaining two games and making their mark early in the game.
In a reflection of the first test game, both teams underwent a single modification in their starting line-ups with Karin Burger taking on the role of goal defence for the Silver Ferns, while Sunday Aryang was appointed as wing defence for the Diamonds.
The Silver Ferns held their ground in the initial stages of the game, exhibiting control and patience, while Amelia Walmsley, a rising shooter, showcased remarkable skills. However, early momentum was grasped by the host team due to untimely Silver Ferns’ lapses.
Silver Ferns’ defence strategist Jane Watson was brought into the match late in the first quarter to impede Australia’s swift attack. The Australian Diamonds were able to maneuver easily gaining a 16-11 lead before the first break.
Having returned from her injury, Nweke brought about a noticeable reinvigoration into the Silver Ferns’ attack line, opening the second quarter with her first goal since the World Cup, injecting a burst of energy into the team performance.
Enduring vigorous and relentless combat in the third quarter, the Diamonds took control of the court on all fronts, displaying an excellent preventive defence.
The finale of the match witnessed Australia’s in-circle defenders apply constant pressure to the Silver Ferns, helping to extend their lead. Australia carried forward this momentum, entering the last phase of the match with a 41-32 lead.
The teams now take the competition to New Zealand, where the third leg of the Constellation Cup will occur on a chilly Thursday night in Invercargill.
