FAST5 Ferns book place in Netball World Series final

Producing one of their best attacking performances of the FAST5 Netball World Series, the FAST5 Ferns have booked a spot in tonight’s final after a commanding win over Jamaica.

The Ferns beat Jamaica 50-16 to confirm their place in the final where they will meet the defending champions, Australia at Wolfbrook Arena in Christchurch.

Attacker and MVP Tiana Metuarau said the Ferns turned on one of their best attacking and shooting performances on the tournament which was timely leading into the final.

“I think it was probably one of our best shooting matches, but I think with confidence in shooting comes that confidence with through court attack,” she said. 

“I know we were letting balls go through gaps that we probably wouldn’t have yesterday.”

Metuarau said they would need to bring both their defensive and attacking strengths to the final against Australia, which would be a tough encounter after two days of fast-paced netball action.

“It’s a much shorter match but I’m gassed,” she said with a laugh. 

“I’m enjoying it so much though, it’s really fun.

“We just need that consistency in shooting and great fantastic defence one more time.”

Playing to their strengths against Jamaica, the FAST5 Ferns’ defensive game was strong from the opening whistles while Grace Nweke kept the scoreboard moving under the post.

The Ferns led 11-6 after the first quarter and kept their nose in front in the second spell thanks to a faultless shooting performance from Nweke who played all 12 minutes of the opening half.

With a 19-12 lead, the Ferns were forced to work hard for every point early in the third quarter until a two six-point plays from Metuarau sparked the hosts and their supporters.

The FAST5 Ferns had a commanding 37-16 lead turning into the fourth quarter and produced perhaps their best attacking play heading into the tournament decider.

The FAST5 Netball World Series grand final will be played at 8pm.