The Fast5 Ferns continued their 100 percent record on day two
of the World Netball Series with a huge 52-19 victory over
South Africa.
The result took New Zealand to the top of the round robin
table, after England were upset by Malawi 27-23 in the match
of the tournament so far.
The New Zealand side, whose only blemish thus far is a
surprise draw with Jamaica on Friday, led at the end of each
quarter and were rarely troubled by the Proteas.
Coach Wai Taumaunu again took the opportunity to use her full
lineup, with second stringers including Bailey Mes and Anna
Thompson starting the match and getting plenty of court time.
The Ferns were too strong across all areas of the court and
two long bombs from Maria Tutaia in the powerplay quarter
took New Zealand past the half-century mark.
In their earlier match New Zealand demolished Malawai 44-24,
Tutaia again the standout with several outstanding bombs from
distance.
The African side were expected to provide a tough test,
especially after their convincing victory over the Australia
on the first day, but struggled against the height and reach
of the home side.
In other results on day two, Australia, whose team of rookies
have been the flops of the tournament, crashed to their
fourth consecutive defeat with a 28-27 loss to South Africa.
The South Africans had a player sent from the court in the
dying stages but hung on to win in a frenetic finish.
England beat Jamaica 39-28 in the day's opening game.
World Netball Series day two results:
England 39 Jamaica 28
New Zealand 44 Malawi 24
South Africa 28 Australia 27
Malawi 27 England 23
New Zealand 52 South Africa 19
- By Michael Burgess of the Herald on Sunday
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