Silver Ferns bounce back against England
The Silver Ferns rebounded from their first-up loss to the Australia Diamonds in South Africa on Sunday with a comprehensive outing, led by a compelling performance from shooter Maria Tutaia who returned 32 goals from 37 attempts.
The New Zealanders had the luxury of introducing defender Kelly Jury for her first taste of international Netball in the latter stages, the team’s tallest player becoming Silver Fern No 166
The Silver Ferns made two changes from their opening Test of the series, against an experienced England, the tall defensive duo of Anna Harrison and Jane Watson slotting into wing defence and goalkeeper, respectively.
Producing accurate attacking Netball, the Silver Ferns built on a strong opening to build an early five-goal buffer.
With the hosts settling into their work, England showed strong form on attack through the enterprising play of veteran Jade Clarke and former Diamond Chelsea Locke. Shooter Kadeen Corbin found good space in range of the hoop, helping England reduce the Silver Ferns lead to a narrow 16-13 margin at the first break.
The Silver Ferns changed the course of the match with a clinical and forceful second quarter. Delivering a masterclass on attack, the New Zealanders revelled in their work as they set out on a match-winning run.
The Silver Ferns raced to a 10-goal advantage in quick time, Tuataia on song under the hoop as the visitors scythed through court with speed, vision and crisp play. The New Zealanders were also staunch on defence, captain Katrina Grant, Watson and Harrison picking up a number of turnovers to keep England scoreless for over six minutes.
A run of nine unanswered goals powered the Silver Ferns to a 31-19 lead at the main break.
Replacing Bailey Mes in the dying minutes of the first half, shooter Te Paea Selby-Rickit made a seamless transition as the Silver Ferns held their 12-goal advantage through an evenly-contested third stanza.
Wing attack Gina Crampton was also introduced in the second half, taking over from Grace Rasmussen as the Silver Ferns continued to impress with their all-round play.
The Silver Ferns defensive line excelled with an oppressive presence while Tutaia continued her scintillating form with poise and accuracy to give the Silver Ferns a 42-30 lead at the last break.
Player of the Match: Jane Watson (Silver Ferns)