Silver Ferns lose Constellation Cup opener
October 20, 2015
Congratulations Laura Langman - 50 Test Matches against Australia © Michael Bradley Photography
The Australian Diamonds drew first blood in the four-test New World Netball Series for the Constellation Cup with a well-executed 50-44 win in Christchurch on Tuesday.
Following their last match-up in the Netball World Cup Gold Medal Match two months ago, it was the Diamonds who once again held the edge between the two old rivals. Both teams looked a little rusty at times but it was the visitors’ who controlled much of the proceedings with their greater finishing and accuracy.
Looking to continue building on their recently adopted expansive game, Jodi Brown slotted in at goal attack in the only personnel change to the Silver Ferns from the NWC2015 line-up.
In her 50th Test Match and final Series in charge, coach Waimarama Taumaunu would have been pleased with the Silver Ferns impressive start against the world champions.
VOTE: Sky Sport Moment of the Year
With the Diamonds looking ahead after the retirements of Kimberlee Green, Julie Corletto and Rebecca Bulley, the visitor’s took time to gel while the New Zealanders made an efficient and effective start. However, it wasn’t long before Australia found their feet, going on to lead at each break.
The Silver Ferns were let down by untimely lapses, competing for much of the match but unable to fully capitalise on opportunities that came their way in contrast to Australia nailing theirs.
With Katrina Grant replacing Leana de Bruin at goal defence in the third quarter, the Silver Ferns matched Australia goal-for-goal for much of the third stanza as they looked to stage a second half rally. Untimely errors, however, by the home team opened the door for the Diamonds to maintain control.
VOTE: Woman’s Day People’s Choice
Bailey Mes took the aerial ball strongly and shot with great accuracy but the Silver Ferns were unable to lift their volume of ball into the lofty shooter’s hands. Showing their efficiency at both ends of the court,Australia made the most of their turnover opportunities to take a handy 40-34 lead into the last break.
In a sign of the future, rising talent Phoenix Karaka took over from her captain Casey Kopua in the custodian’s role as the Silver Ferns pulled out a spirited last quarter. But the New Zealanders were unable to make major inroads, keepingAustralia honest with a shared quarter at 10 goals apiece, the Diamonds retaining their composure and ability to absorb pressure.
The second Test of the New World Netball Series for the Constellation Cup will be held at Vector Arena in Auckland on Thursday.
Following their last match-up in the Netball World Cup Gold Medal Match two months ago, it was the Diamonds who once again held the edge between the two old rivals. Both teams looked a little rusty at times but it was the visitors’ who controlled much of the proceedings with their greater finishing and accuracy.
Looking to continue building on their recently adopted expansive game, Jodi Brown slotted in at goal attack in the only personnel change to the Silver Ferns from the NWC2015 line-up.
In her 50th Test Match and final Series in charge, coach Waimarama Taumaunu would have been pleased with the Silver Ferns impressive start against the world champions.
VOTE: Sky Sport Moment of the Year
With the Diamonds looking ahead after the retirements of Kimberlee Green, Julie Corletto and Rebecca Bulley, the visitor’s took time to gel while the New Zealanders made an efficient and effective start. However, it wasn’t long before Australia found their feet, going on to lead at each break.
The Silver Ferns were let down by untimely lapses, competing for much of the match but unable to fully capitalise on opportunities that came their way in contrast to Australia nailing theirs.
With Katrina Grant replacing Leana de Bruin at goal defence in the third quarter, the Silver Ferns matched Australia goal-for-goal for much of the third stanza as they looked to stage a second half rally. Untimely errors, however, by the home team opened the door for the Diamonds to maintain control.
VOTE: Woman’s Day People’s Choice
Bailey Mes took the aerial ball strongly and shot with great accuracy but the Silver Ferns were unable to lift their volume of ball into the lofty shooter’s hands. Showing their efficiency at both ends of the court,
In a sign of the future, rising talent Phoenix Karaka took over from her captain Casey Kopua in the custodian’s role as the Silver Ferns pulled out a spirited last quarter. But the New Zealanders were unable to make major inroads, keeping
The second Test of the New World Netball Series for the Constellation Cup will be held at Vector Arena in Auckland on Thursday.