Silver Ferns Secure Victory Over England, Conclude Challenging Season

The Silver Ferns celebrated a hard-fought 55-49 victory against England in Manchester, marking the conclusion of a tumultuous international season. The win brought smiles, hugs, and tears, reflecting the emotional weight of a year filled with challenges. Interim coach Yvette McCausland-Durie expressed her feelings after the match, stating, “We hope we’ve made New Zealand proud.”

This victory secured the Silver Ferns’ second trophy of the season, following their triumph in the Taini Jamison Trophy in September. The team faced significant obstacles, including the absence of head coach Noeline Taurua, who was stood down in September.

Resilience Amid Challenges

Despite several players suffering from illness in the days leading up to the match, the Silver Ferns delivered one of their strongest performances of the northern hemisphere tour. A notable highlight was the milestone achieved by Kate Heffernan, who celebrated her 50th test match. “One game for New Zealand, let alone 50, is pretty special, so I’m just honoured to be here,” Heffernan remarked, emphasizing her pride in the team’s ability to secure a win after a demanding season.

Interim captain Karin Burger echoed Heffernan’s sentiments. “Obviously with everything going on, it does mean a lot that we have pulled through,” Burger stated. “I’m really proud of this group, regardless of what’s been going on in the background.” She acknowledged the emotional and mental growth the team experienced over the past three months.

The match began with both teams struggling to find their rhythm, as England’s defensive pressure created early chaos. The Silver Ferns found themselves trailing 14-11 at the first break due to unforced errors. However, they regrouped in the second quarter, with Maddy Gordon making a crucial interception, helping the team to regain composure.

As the game progressed, the Silver Ferns took a narrow halftime lead of 27-25. Though England’s Helen Housby was a dominant shooter, her absence in playmaking was felt as the Roses attempted to shift their strategy. The Silver Ferns capitalized on their attacking opportunities, threading precise passes to their shooters.

Decisive Moments and Strong Finish

The second half saw a back-and-forth battle, with both teams exchanging leads. The Silver Ferns initially struggled to maintain their advantage but managed to edge ahead again, led by key plays from Jackson and Heffernan. By the end of the third quarter, the Silver Ferns had established a lead of 42-38.

In the final quarter, the Silver Ferns surged ahead, establishing their largest lead of the game at seven goals. Their cohesive teamwork and sharp focus allowed them to hold off the Roses’ attempts to regain control. As the match drew to a close, the Silver Ferns showcased their resilience, ultimately sealing the victory.

The Silver Ferns’ triumph against England not only marked the end of a challenging year but also highlighted their ability to overcome adversity. As they reflect on this season, the team aims to build on their achievements moving forward, with hopes of returning stronger in future competitions.