Impressive opening for new-look Silver Ferns   24 Jul 2015

The versatility of the Silver Ferns line-up shone through when they completed an impressive 91-31 win over the Fiji Pearls in the New World Netball Series in Wellington on Thursday.

There was much anticipation in the new-look Silver Ferns line-up for the one-off Test against Fiji as both teams looked to put the polish on their preparations for next month’s World Cup in Sydney.

The Silver Ferns looked to build on their combinations with a variety of players and styles taking to the court, the most pleasing aspect being the team’s ability to adapt to the changes with seamless efficiency.

Bailey Mes got the nod to start at goal shoot with Shannon Francois picking up the centre’s bib and Laura Langman reverting to where she started her international career, at wing defence.

The Silver Ferns were quickly out of the blocks, the athleticism of Mes adding to a mobile and fluent circle as the home side delivered a slick and steady service. Back where she made her international debut five years ago, wing attack Grace Rasmussen revelled in the conditions, space and timing giving her the upper hand on attack.

At the other end, a strong and lively Casey Kopua showed her joy at being back playing at international level for the first time since suffering a serious knee injury nine months ago.

The Silver Ferns captain was a dominant figure alongside Katrina Grant as the defensive pair stalled Fiji’s momentum through the midcourt, the home team powering out to a 22-3 lead at the first break.

Fiji showed better patience and timing on the resumption, the impact of Afa Rusivakula at goal attack helping the visitors lift their efforts while Maria Lutua added thrust from wing attack.

Mes continued to shine at goal shoot, impressing with her variety and retrieving abilities while also improving her shooting percentages. Langman showed her strong defensive qualities with a strong all-round showing as the Silver Ferns headed to the main break with a 43-12 lead.

Langman resumed her more customary position of centre for the second half while Jodi Brown replaced Maria Tutaia at goal attack and Kayla Cullen picked up the wing defence bib.

There were encouraging signs from all three when the changes made little difference to the all-round performance of the Silver Ferns. Brown, the playmaker, ran the attack line with her renowned efficiency and Langman drove strongly though the midcourt alongside the athletic Cullen.

With the Silver Ferns continuing to improve their shooting returns, Fiji also had more reward during the third stanza, the home team taking a 70-21 lead into the last break.

Malia Paseka became the 158th Silver Fern when coming on in the last quarter, continuing her strong form of the ANZ Championship season with an impressive debut. Defender Phoenix Karaka also came on for the final 15 minutes, the Silver Ferns not missing a beat with their consistency of performance and smooth finishing.

The Silver Ferns continue their build to the World Cup with the first of a two-Test Series against South Africa’s SPAR Proteas in Hamilton on Sunday.

ENDS

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