Silver Ferns Secure Taini Jamison Trophy with 70-58 Victory

The Silver Ferns clinched the Taini Jamison Trophy after defeating South Africa 70-58 in the second Test held in Napier on March 15, 2024. This victory followed a dominant performance in the first Test, where the Silver Ferns won by 26 goals in Auckland.

The match began with a surprising turn of events as South Africa took an early lead, finishing the first quarter ahead at 15-14. The Silver Ferns struggled to establish their attacking rhythm, allowing South Africa to capitalize on the situation. However, the dynamic shifted in the second quarter as the Silver Ferns found their groove, outscoring their opponents 20-13 to take a 34-28 lead at halftime.

As the game progressed, the Silver Ferns showcased their resilience. They maintained a narrow lead throughout the third quarter, which saw both teams exchanging goals. As the quarter drew to a close, New Zealand pulled away, entering the final period with a commanding 53-42 advantage.

In a notable moment, Filda Vui made her debut for the Silver Ferns, stepping onto the court as a goal attack midway through the last quarter. Her introduction added depth to the team as they maintained their momentum.

The standout performance came from Grace Nweke, who scored an impressive 60 goals, demonstrating her crucial role in the Silver Ferns’ success. Stand-in captain Kelly Jackson also made significant contributions, securing several intercepts throughout the match.

The Silver Ferns’ victory not only secured the trophy but also highlighted their ability to adapt and overcome early challenges. The team will look to build on this momentum as they continue their preparations for upcoming fixtures.

Fans can follow the ongoing updates and analysis through RNZ’s live blog, capturing all the excitement and developments from this thrilling match.