Silver Ferns Aim for Redemption in Constellation Cup Rematch

The Silver Ferns are gearing up for a crucial rematch against Australia in the second test of the Constellation Cup on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney. Following a disappointing 69-52 loss in the series opener, the team aims to bounce back as they face a formidable opponent filled with talent.

Interim head coach Yvette McCausland-Durie expressed both disappointment and realism after the Silver Ferns’ performance in Melbourne. Despite competing well for three quarters, New Zealand faltered in the final period, allowing Australia to dominate with a staggering 24-11 scoreline in the last 15 minutes. McCausland-Durie acknowledged that while there were moments of promise, the team must deliver a complete performance to stand a chance against the world champions.

This upcoming match marks the second of a four-game series, with the final two tests taking place in New Zealand. Australia is looking to reclaim the Constellation Cup after losing the title 3-1 last year. A victory in Sydney would put them in a strong position, but the Silver Ferns still hold hope due to a new tiebreaker system implemented last year.

Under the revised rules, if the series ends in a 2-2 tie, the final match in Christchurch will determine the winner through a series of two seven-minute halves. Should the teams remain level after that, additional time will continue until one team achieves a two-goal lead. This change could provide the Silver Ferns with a lifeline, even if they suffer consecutive losses.

Historically, Australia has struggled on New Zealand soil, with their last victory there occurring in March 2021. This adds an intriguing dynamic to the series, as the Silver Ferns will look to leverage this advantage in their home matches.

In their previous encounter, the Silver Ferns’ defensive performance was notably below par, conceding a total of 69 goals, the highest they have allowed against Australia. The 24 goals surrendered in the final quarter also marked a record low for the team. Key contributors to Australia’s success included captain Liz Watson and centre Kate Moloney, both of whom found it easy to execute their strategies against New Zealand’s defence.

Moving forward, the Silver Ferns will need to enhance their defensive efforts, particularly from midcourters Maddy Gordon and Kate Heffernan, along with circle defenders Karin Burger and Kelly Jackson. Their ability to create turnovers and apply pressure will be crucial if they hope to contain Australia’s offensive threats.

Offensively, there were positive signs for the Silver Ferns, particularly in their initial three quarters where the team functioned well as a unit. Star shooter Grace Nweke was pivotal, and when the ball flowed to her effectively, Australia struggled to respond. Interim captain Karin Burger emphasized the need for the team to learn from their mistakes in the last quarter while also acknowledging the quality of their earlier performance.

The Silver Ferns have faced intense scrutiny leading into this Constellation Cup series, particularly amid uncertainties surrounding the coaching future of Dame Noeline Taurua. With McCausland-Durie remaining at the helm, the focus will be on maintaining composure and unity within the squad. She praised the players for their professionalism, stating, “They’re really professional. They know it’s their job and I just think the group has been really united and have come together really well.”

As anticipation builds for Wednesday’s match, the Silver Ferns will look to channel their frustrations from the previous game into a renewed effort against their rivals. The stakes are high, and a strong performance in Sydney could set the tone for the remainder of the Constellation Cup series. Live coverage of the match will begin at 21:00 local time on Sky Sport 1.