Diamonds continue hot form

In a show of great depth and versatility the Diamonds cemented their spot as world number one, claiming their fourth crown from four international competitions this year, despite tough opposition from the Roses who brought plenty of intensity.

Game 1:

The opening match of the series went right down to the wire with the Aussies securing a narrow one goal win in Newcastle (55-54). It was an incredibly tight tussle but Kiera Austin’s confidence and composure shone through, the goal attack nailing eight from 10 along with 14 centre pass receives and five feeds. Kate Moloney proved her versatility across the court playing both centre and wing defence, while Jo Weston left her mark on the game finishing with two gains and intercept.

Game 2:

It was a different story in Game 2 with the Diamonds getting the jump on the Roses early in Sydney, and maintaining that ascendancy to run home with an eight-goal win (56-48). Kip got the start in goal attack and didn’t disappoint, slotting eight straight in the opening term before finishing with 22/24 at 92%. Kip also impressed at the centre pass with 11 receives and was crafty with ball in hand, racking up eight goal assists. Jo was a commanding force down back with her long arms and ability to confuse the space wreaking all sorts of havoc. Jo finished with three gains, six deflections and eight centre pass receives proving she’s a threat in both attack and defence.

Game 3:

Bursting out of the gates in the opening term, the Diamonds built a commanding lead and managed to hold off a fast-finishing Roses side in the final quarter to secure their third straight win for the series. Kate was up to her usual tricks through the centre, her bullet like passes and vision into the circle on full display racking up an impressive 21 feeds. Kip maintained her momentum from Game 2 coming on with a hot hand in her half of netball, nailing nine goals at 81% while also flexing her defensive muscle with two intercepts. Injected into the match at half time, Jo’s fresh legs and read of the play also made an impact and it showed on the stats sheet with two deflections and a rebound.

The England series marks the end of the Diamonds’ international season for 2022. Next up is the Fast5 Netball World Series – Hannah Mundy will hit the court for Australia when the competition kicks off tomorrow, Saturday 5 November, in Christchurch. Watch live and free on 7Plus.