Thistles prickly, Ferns unfazed

Harriet Millard

New Zealand wrapped up a confident 2–0 series win over Scotland in East Kilbride on Tuesday, showcasing cohesion and control across both matches despite spirited resistance from the home side.

Credit: AAP

The Scottish Thistles started brightly in the opening stanza of test one, but New Zealand maintained a steady grip throughout that 60 minutes and into the next a few days later. New Zealand Shooter Martina Salmon delivered a standout performance, earning Player of the Match in the first test, while her teammate and midcourter Maddy Gordon claimed the honours for match two, notching up a spectacular 31 circle feeds while only playing half the game.

The second test offered more attacking punch from the home side in East Kilbride, who posted 48 goals - their highest ever total against New Zealand, but the world number two ranked side responded with even greater scoring volume, ensuring that New Zealand finished with an emphatic end to the series.

Across both games, Scotland showed resilience and flashes of promising play, but the Silver Ferns’ accuracy, depth, and defensive discipline kept them firmly in the driving seat. Both sides will be able to take a good amount of learnings from the series. For New Zealand, it offered valuable opportunities to test combinations and build momentum, while Scotland gained meaningful match experience against top-tier opposition.

Despite the Thistles’ prickly intent, the Ferns remained composed and effective, an encouraging sign as both nations look ahead to their next international challenges.

Match 1 – Saturday 8 November, Scotland 41 – 63 New Zealand

Match 2 - Tuesday 11 November, Scotland 48 – 80 New Zealand