Silver Ferns Dominate Scotland 63-41 in Opening Match of UK Tour

The Silver Ferns delivered a commanding performance in their opening match of the UK tour, defeating Scotland 63-41 at the Playsport Arena in Glasgow on November 12, 2023. Despite the absence of star shooters Grace Nweke and Georgia Heffernan, the New Zealand team showcased impressive teamwork and skill, demonstrating their depth and resilience ahead of the Commonwealth Games next year.

Amelia Walmsley and Martina Salmon stepped up in the shooting department, with Walmsley scoring 30 goals from 33 attempts and Salmon contributing 33 from 37. Salmon’s performance earned her the title of player of the match, highlighting her impact on the game. The Silver Ferns, ranked second in the world, maintained control throughout the match, leading by 11 goals at halftime with a score of 33-22.

The match marked the beginning of the Silver Ferns’ five-match tour, following a challenging loss to Australia in the Constellation Cup series. Coach Yvette McCausland-Durie, along with assistant Liana Leota, took charge for this tour, as head coach Dame Noeline Taurua will rejoin the team next year after being reinstated by Netball New Zealand.

Salmon acknowledged that despite the win, there is significant room for improvement. “We just went out there and did our best, but we can lift it to a whole other level,” she said. Salmon expressed concern over the team’s mistakes, including balls that went out of court and other minor errors. She emphasized the need for the team to come together and address these issues ahead of their rematch with Scotland on November 12.

With a series of matches lined up in quick succession, the Silver Ferns are using this tour as a valuable trial run for the Commonwealth Games. They aim to replicate the tournament format, which includes closely scheduled games to build team cohesion and performance under pressure.

The Silver Ferns made several tactical changes throughout the match, including switching the shooting positions of Walmsley and Salmon in the second half. New players also had the opportunity to showcase their skills, with Parris Mason starting at wing defence and Carys Stythe making her international debut at goal keep.

Entering the final quarter with a 16-goal lead, the Silver Ferns demonstrated their strength and strategic prowess. This victory sets a positive tone for their upcoming fixtures, including another match against Scotland and three tests against England.

The remaining fixtures for the Silver Ferns during this UK tour are as follows:
– November 12: vs. Scotland, 08:30 (NZT)
– November 16: vs. England, 06:00
– November 17: vs. England, 04:00
– November 20: vs. England, 08:00

As the Silver Ferns continue their tour, they aim to refine their game and build momentum leading into the Commonwealth Games, which will be their pinnacle event in 2026.