The Silver Ferns have beaten Australia 52-48 in Tauranga to take a 2-nil lead in the Constellation Cup, achieving rare back to back wins against the world number one side.
The Silver Ferns have beaten Australia 52-48 in Tauranga. Photo: Aaron Gillions / www.photosport.nz
It was a very different game to the first Test on Wednesday, when the Silver Ferns took an 11 goal lead after the first quarter.
The Diamonds made a far better start and led 25-24 at half time.
The visitors put a lot of pressure on the Silver Ferns in the first half and slowed down the New Zealand midcourt.
Kate Heffernan came on at centre midway through the second quarter, replacing Whitney Souness.
New Zealand turned things around in the third quarter, finding much more freedom on attack.
The Silver Ferns won the third period 15-9.
New Zealand shooter Grace Nweke scored 37 from 37 at 100 percent. She was again fed well by wing attack Peta Toeava, who got another full game.
Captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio was another crucial player, shooting 15 from 19.
Three Australian players got their debuts as the Diamonds tried to find answers.
The series heads across the Tasman for the remaining two tests.
If Australia manage to win the next two Tests, the winner will be determined by goal percentage.