Martina Salmon Shines Despite Silver Ferns’ Loss to Australia

The Silver Ferns faced a challenging start to their four-Test Constellation Cup series against Australia, suffering a significant defeat of **69-52** on **October 20, 2023**. Despite the loss, **Martina Salmon**, making only her second start for the Silver Ferns, displayed remarkable composure and skill throughout the match.

Playing at the sold-out **John Cain Arena** in Melbourne, Salmon experienced the pressure of international competition firsthand. Early in the match, one of her shots was blocked by **Courtney Bruce**, a formidable defender for the Australian team. Rather than letting this setback affect her, Salmon regrouped and continued to take shots, ultimately contributing **12 goals** during her **51 minutes** on the court.

Salmon reflected on her experience, stating, “When she blocked me I was kind of gutted at first but then I think the biggest thing for me as a shooter is to not dwell on that shot and to move on to the next.” Her determination to keep pushing forward paid off, allowing her to gain confidence as the game progressed.

Performance Highlights and Future Aspirations

The match’s final quarter proved decisive, with Australia outscoring New Zealand **24-11**, marking their highest ever score against the Silver Ferns in a single quarter. Salmon acknowledged the intensity of the game, noting, “The physicality was definitely there, and I think they just have this extra mental edge to their game.” This insight highlights the competitive atmosphere that players encounter in high-stakes matches.

Born in Auckland, Salmon moved to Australia at the age of two before returning to New Zealand at **18** to pursue her netball aspirations. Her journey to the Silver Ferns began when she played as a training partner for the **Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic** and later with the **Sunshine Coast Lightning** in Australia’s premier league. In **2022**, she made her debut in the **ANZ Premiership**, which eventually led to her selection for the Silver Ferns.

Salmon’s ascent to the national team comes at a pivotal time, as the goal attack position has been vacant since former captain **Ameliaranne Ekenasio** stepped back from international play to focus on family. Salmon is aware of the challenges ahead but is eager to seize the opportunity. “There’s a lot of challenges in this goal attack bib so just being confident, trusting myself and having that connection with Grace [Nweke] is really important,” she explained.

Personal Motivation and Family Support

Salmon’s journey in netball has been shaped not only by her experiences but also by her family’s support. Her parents and husband traveled to Auckland last month to witness her debut against **South Africa**, a particularly poignant moment following her mother’s battle with breast cancer. “I wish she could be here but I know that she’s proud of me and looking down on me,” Salmon said of her grandmother, who introduced her to netball at the age of **12**.

As the Silver Ferns prepare for the second Test in Sydney on **October 25, 2023**, Salmon is focused on learning from this experience. “For me personally, so much learning to take into this next game,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to improvement and adaptation.

The Silver Ferns will look to rebound in the upcoming match, with Salmon aiming to build on her debut performance and contribute more significantly to her team’s efforts. The competitive spirit of the Constellation Cup promises to deliver thrilling encounters as both teams vie for supremacy in international netball.