The Diamonds are on the back foot heading into Game Two of the Constellation Cup, after their disastrous 14-goal loss to the Silver Ferns on Sunday. The Aussies were accused of being “spooked” by the Kiwis in a horror start to their Cup defence as coach Stacey Marinkovich struggled to find the right combinations on court. The loss in Wellington continued Australia’s shocking New Zealand hoodoo – with that 64-50 result now the side’s seventh straight loss across the ditch.
Kiera Austin found Vixens teammate Sophie Garbin in the opening play of the match after both attackers were backed to start despite their benching in Game 1. But the duo’s momentum didn’t last long as once again the Kiwi defenders repeatedly won ball back. The long arms of Kelly Jackson was causing all sorts of trouble as both Garbin and Austin turned over ball. A break by skipper Liz Watson was luckily recovered by the Diamonds’ defence - but the Silver Ferns were in a punishing mood.
“The Ferns don’t look like they are slowing down at all,” Fox Netball’s Cath Cox said as the margin grew to 6. “They are purring now! The floodgates have opened for the Silver Ferns.” At the first change it was New Zealand leading 17-11.
Despite three turnovers coming from the Diamonds’ goalers, the changes came outside the circle with skipper Liz Watson benched for Paige Hadley, Sunday Aryang shifting to wing defence and Jo Weston coming on at GD. But again extra forced passes between Garbin and Austin were picked off - and suddenly the margin was out to double digits in worrying signs. “It’s like a training run,” Fox Netball’s Kim Green lamented.
Sarah Klau was benched less than seven minutes into the second term as Courtney Bruce saw her first minutes of the second Test. Bodies were hitting the deck at both ends of the court as fatigue started to set in. Kiera Austin headed to the bench with three turnovers to her name - like in game one - with just minutes to play in the second term. Aussie now Kiwi Claire O’Brien got the intercept in the dying seconds to ensure at half time, it was New Zealand leading 33-23.
Ferns defender Karin Burger had a massive intercept in the opening minutes, but for the first-time all match the Kiwis couldn’t convert. Some bad hands from Ameliaranne Ekenasio was offset by a bad ball in from Jamie-Lee Price as the margin remained 10 goals midway through the third. The teams went goal for goal as Sophie Dwyer impressed in just her 14th Test cap. Dwyer picked off midcourt ball to ensure momentum turned in Australia’s favour. But by the final change, it was still New Zealand up 48-39.
New Zealand Defenders Dominate the Game
The Diamonds' defensive changes, including bringing on Courtney Bruce, proved ineffective in stemming the tide of Silver Ferns goals. The game highlighted the impact of Kelly Jackson's strong defensive presence and the ability of the Ferns' defense to shut down the Diamonds' shooting combinations.
Another Dominant Win For the Kelpies
The Australian Kelpies continued their strong form in the Trans-Tasman Cup with a 75-30 victory over the Net Blacks. Despite a close first quarter, the Net Blacks struggled to maintain their momentum, failing to hit double digits for the remainder of the game.
Liam Killey led the Kelpies' attack, converting 39 of 44 goal attempts, while Brodie Roberts, named player of the match, contributed 12/14 goals and 18 goal assists in 36 minutes. Mikaira Raerino was New Zealand's best, converting on all 21 of his shots in the loss.
Diamonds Seek a Turnaround in Game Three
The Diamonds will need to make significant adjustments to their game plan and defensive approach to challenge the Silver Ferns in the remaining matches. The team will need to find a way to shut down Grace Nweke and create more opportunities for their own shooters. The pressure will be on the Diamonds to bring the intensity and physicality to the court to avoid another disappointing defeat.
A Silver Ferns Victory: A Story of Determination and Resilience
The Silver Ferns' victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. The team fought back from a disappointing start to the series and showed their strength in both attack and defense. The victory was a fitting send-off for Grace Nweke on her final game on New Zealand soil.
