Diamonds reclaim Constellation Cup

Game 1:

Things didn’t necessarily go the Diamonds’ way in Game 1, but Liz was a consistent force across all four quarters, cleverly manoeuvring the ball down the court. Kip came on with a much-needed energy boost in the second term, nailing three goals in two minutes. She maintained that intensity in the third, finishing the game with nine goals and three goal assists to her name while Kate created a presence through the middle.

Game 2:

The midcourt duo of Kate and Liz were back at it in Game 2 and while the Diamonds didn’t get the chocolates, the two showed their class to balance the circle and deliver precision passes. Liz led the stats for the Diamonds with her 15 goal assists and two intercepts, while partner in crime Kate managed five feeds in her time on court.

Game 3:

After playing two games in New Zealand the Diamonds returned to Australian shores on Wednesday and didn’t disappoint, romping home to a 15-goal victory in front of a packed John Cain Arena. The side bounced back from their earlier performances with Liz leading the charge, racking up a staggering game-high 57 feeds and 28 goal assists. The wing attack was simply unstoppable around circle edge and her work at the centre pass was also impressive (18 receives). Coming in as an injury replacement player, Jo Weston proved to be a menace both in defence and attack with two intercepts, a gain and 12 centre pass receives to her name. Kate also had her best game of the tournament, clocking up 24 feeds and an intercept.

Game 4:

With the series on the line the Kiwis started strongly, leading by as much as six goals before the Aussies rallied to draw back the margin and hit the front in emphatic fashion. Liz controlled the goal third, her crafty feeds and spatial awareness enabling her to have an impact in attack (20 feeds). But it was her defensive efforts that really sparked the side, delivering two intercepts, a deflection and a gain at crucial moments. Kate was also influential in the opening half amassing 10 feeds, while Jo’s persistent niggle in defence got the Aussies over the line.

Having reclaimed the Con Cup, the Diamonds are now set to take on the England Roses in a three-test series – watch live on Kayo Freebies or Fox Netball.