Aussies outclassed by Silver Ferns

The New Zealand Silver Ferns defeated Australia 61-36 in front of a packed crowd at Trusts Stadium in Auckland tonight.

In the last international Test between the two countries before they meet in next year’s Commonwealth Games, New Zealand were able to establish a lead early before breaking away to complete outplay Australia in every department.

The first half saw the Australians attempt to restrict the New Zealanders at every opportunity, but struggled in the mid court. Coach Norma Plummer was forced to make changes with Natasha Chokljat coming on for Selina Gilsenan.

New Zealand went into the main break with a convincing 29-15 lead over the Australians.

Second half was very much the same, with the Silver Ferns continued to build an assailable lead that the Australians were never able to find their way back into the game at any stage.

Shooting wise, Irene Van Dyk was the standout for New Zealand shooting 41 goals from 43 attempts at an amazing 95% accuracy and received good support from Jodi Te Huna at goal attack shotting 61% (14/23). Veteran Belinda Colling was bought on in the last quarter to shoot at 86% accuracy.

Cath Cox was the best performed goaler for Australia, finding the net with 20 of her 25 attempts (80%). Fellow goalers Sharelle McMahon, with 73% (11/15), and Eloise Southby-Halbish (71%) both had unusually below par night around goals.

For the Silver Ferns, superstar goal shooter Van Dyk was best on court and was also presented with an award for becoming the most capped player in international netball history with 129 caps. Temepara George, captain Adine Wilson and defender Vilimaina Davu were also among the best players.

Megan Anderson was inspirational for Australia at wing attack, but unfortunately her efforts went unnoticed, as her team was steam rolled in every department on court. In her return to international netball, Jess Shynn showed some improvement and will be looking to impress the selectors for inclusion in the Commonwealth Games squad.

In a blow for the Australian team preparations for the Commonwealth Games next year, captain Liz Ellis suffered a knee injury that will see her miss the Jamaica series.

Next up for the Australians is a three test series against Jamaica, all of which will be played in the capital Kingston on November 5, 7, and 9.

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