Timely first victory over men for Ferns

AUCKLAND: The Silver Ferns secured their first win over the New Zealand Men — and the timing could not have been better.

Not only has Saturday’s 5552 victory secured them the 2020 Cadbury Series title, it gives them plenty of confidence before their first international outing in nine months.

Ferns shooters captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio and Te Paea SelbyRickit, both rested on Friday, made easy work within the circle, creating space and pulling off some clever play.

Maia Wilson led the Ferns with 27 goals from 30 attempts after coming off the bench midway through the second quarter.

‘‘It was an absolutely unreal game, This is the best prep we could ever get and ask for so we're so thankful to the men. It's been an unreal week,’’ an ecstatic Ekenasio said.

‘‘So proud of the girls — I remember looking up at one stage thinking it was seven minutes to go but saw it was only two and I was so relieved. It's just been a unreal experience.’’

New Zealand A claimed third in the series with a 6847 win over the New Zealand Under 21s.

Kate Heffernan took home player of the match after a stellar performance at wing defence.

The 21yearold picked up four intercepts, four deflections and three turnovers. — The New Zealand Herald