Ferns take first netball test after close encounter of the third quarter

Harriet Millard

It was a close encounter of the third quarter, as the England and New Zealand netball teams were level going into the final period of the first in a three test series, with New Zealand ultimately pulling through in the fourth to win 58-61.

Credit: Paul B Whitehurst

Saturday's game was New Zealand’s tenth international test in just 55 days, while England were returning to the court for the first time since February this year. Despite the contrasting test recency, England opened brightly and aggressively, in particular, debutant Jasmine Brown who made a statement start at goal keeper, forming a sharp combination with Funmi Fadoju, notching up nine deflections and six gains between them.

At the other end, England's Helen Housby settled quickly, sinking the opening goal, and the Copper Box crowd responded instantly. Still, the New Zealand Silver Ferns had their nose in front as the quarter ended 14-15, showing composure under the pressure of the Roses and looking very much like the well oiled machine after nine outings together in the previous weeks.

In the second quarter, New Zealand's midcourt intensity lifted. Maddy Gordon very much the one to watch, played as though this match was her last, and delivered again with strength and fight,, quickly becoming her trademark style. The Ferns were sharp, breaking England’s centre pass early to push out to 16–19. And while England's captain Fran Williams was impressive at wing defence, picking off crucial ball, New Zealand were consistent, and introduced Catherine Hall at goal defence while Kate Heffernan continued to impress with clever intercepts.

The third quarter lived up to the headline. England's Jess Shaw moved to wing attack, Beth Cobden to wing defence, and Amy Carter to centre. The changes sparked some momentum, and within minutes it was 33–34. The energy surged: 36–36, then England were ahead 38–36, the home side riding a wave of confidence. New Zealand responded by bringing on Amelia Walmsley at goal attack, and the quarter closed with both sides locked in battle.

The final quarter became a test of composure. The Ferns edged ahead 49–53, prompting England to introduce Eleanor Cardwell and Hali Adio. Cardwell should be pleased with her 10 minutes on court following a very long period on the sidelines nursing a serious knee injury. She displayed everything the crowd love her for - strong hands, one-handed takes, composed, side-shot in the finish, and the commanding shouts of encouragement to her team mates further down the court. England closed to 51–53. Jess Shaw produced inspired work rate, snagging ball and driving play, and the Roses lifted collectively, pushing to 55–59 with three minutes remaining. But New Zealand held firm, confidently managing the key moments to secure the 58–61 victory.

Player of the Match went to New Zealand’s Kate Heffernan, whose defensive timing and relentless hunt set the tone throughout.

Quarter scores:

Q1: England 14 - 15 New Zealand

Q2: England 16 - 18 New Zealand

Q3: England 17 - 14 New Zealand

Q4: England 11 - 14 New Zealand

Cumulative scores:

Q1: England 14 - 15 New Zealand

HT: England 30 - 33 New Zealand

Q3: England 47 - 47 New Zealand

FT: England 58 - 61 New Zealand