THE Silver Ferns have claimed the Oceania Netball Series after a comfortable 89-23 victory over Samoa at the Vodafone Arena last night.
The victory over Samoa and the Fiji Pearls ensured the Silver Ferns returned home with the title in the bag.
New Zealand never looked to be tested throughout the four quarters but at times, took casual approach.
With changes to the side’s starting line-up that defeated Fiji on Monday night, Silver Ferns head coach Waimarama Taumaunu tried a new combination against the Samoans.
Top shooter Maria Tutaia started at goal attack, pairing Ellen Halpenny inside the circle, Kyla Cullen retained her wing defence spot, Leana de Bruin and Phoenix Karaka started at goal defence and goal keeper respectively while Camilla Lees who started at centre and Grace Rasmussen (WA) completed the mid-court combination.
The Silver Ferns led 19-9 at the end of the opening quarter. Tutaia missed two shots in the second quarter but impressed with some long-range shots. Halpenny was at her usual form during the game. The Ferns led 39-15 at half time.
Taumaunu made five changes in the second spell, with Jodi Brown and Bailey Mes forming the shooting combination, Shannon Francois replaced Grace Rasmussen at WA and tour captain Laura Langman filled in at centre.
New Zealand lifted the tempo in the third quarter to lead 65-22 before the fourth and final quarter.
Samoa plays Fiji to fight for the second and third spot today at 6.30pm.
