Silver Ferns Triumph in First Test Without Coach Taurua

The Silver Ferns delivered an impressive performance, defeating South Africa 77-51 in their opening test of the Taini Jamison Trophy on March 12, 2024. This match marked a significant moment as it was the first time in seven years that Dame Noeline Taurua was not present on the bench, following her recent stand-down by Netball New Zealand. Despite the uncertainty surrounding her absence, the team showcased resilience and skill, making Taurua proud.

Fans gathered at Auckland’s Eventfinda Stadium with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension. Although there were no visible signs demanding Taurua’s return, the atmosphere was charged with energy as the Silver Ferns took to the court. The crowd’s concern about the impact of Taurua’s absence quickly dissipated as the Ferns established a commanding lead, outscoring the Proteas by twelve goals within the first quarter.

The South African team struggled to connect offensively, facing a formidable defense from the Ferns. Their attempts to attack were continuously thwarted, while Grace Nweke, the standout shooter, thrived with precise feeds from her teammates, dominating the scoring. By the end of the match, Nweke had successfully converted 59 of 67 attempts, illustrating her return to form.

Match-day captain Karin Burger, in her 63rd test, reflected on Taurua’s contributions and the hard work leading to this match. “This is just a stepping stone,” Burger stated. “Hopefully we’ve made her proud tonight.” The victory not only served as a milestone for the team but also reinforced their commitment to uphold the legacy of the Silver Ferns, as noted by interim coach Yvette McCausland-Durie.

Despite the challenging backdrop of Taurua’s absence, the Silver Ferns maintained focus on their objectives. McCausland-Durie emphasized the importance of delivering a strong performance, stating, “We have a huge amount of pride in the legacy and the mana of the Silver Ferns.” This victory was particularly significant as the team prepares for the upcoming Commonwealth Games and the 2027 World Cup.

Although the match felt at times more like a one-sided league game than an international clash, the Silver Ferns celebrated notable contributions from all twelve players, including debutants Catherine Hall and Martina Salmon. Salmon, who played in goal attack, demonstrated her skills confidently, scoring nine of eleven attempts. “I felt so connected with the girls that were on court,” she said, reflecting on her emotional experience during the national anthem.

The South African team, ranked fifth in the world, faced a challenging start to their international season. Coach Jenny van Dyk acknowledged the difficulties of competing against the second-ranked Silver Ferns without underestimating their capabilities. The introduction of top shooter Elmere van der Berg during the second quarter showed potential for the Proteas, who will need to regroup for the next match in Napier on March 15, 2024.

As the Silver Ferns move forward, there remain areas for improvement. McCausland-Durie noted the need for greater precision, particularly in the third quarter when South Africa showed signs of resurgence. She reiterated the focus on maintaining clarity and emotional strength during this unprecedented chapter in New Zealand netball history.

The Silver Ferns are set to continue their campaign with ongoing support from former players and mental strength coaches, ensuring they stay grounded and focused as they navigate this transitional period. “We’ve just been working really hard to be clear,” McCausland-Durie said, highlighting the importance of teamwork and emotional resilience in the face of challenges. The road ahead promises to be demanding, but the Silver Ferns are determined to uphold their legacy and continue their pursuit of excellence on the international stage.