A slow start has again proved costly for the Silver Ferns as they lost 57-50 to Australia in the opening Quad series netball match in South Africa this morning.
Australia got away to a seamless start, their pace on attack and slick interplay between shooters Susan Pettitt and Caitlin Thwaites leaving the Silver Ferns in chase mode, with the Diamonds up 16-10 at the first break.
With more consistency and flow on attack in the second quarter it allowed shooters Maria Tutaia and Bailey Mes to work their way into the game but Australia were quick to punish any loose play, finishing the quarter with a flourish to maintain a healthy 30-23 lead at halftime.
Maria Tutaia's return to the Silver Ferns wasn't enough to help them overcome Australia. Photo: Photosport
Tutuia conceded slow first quarter starts are an issue for the side.
"They've stung us quite a bit in recent years with our slow first quarter starts and it was something that was highlighted during the week so the girls were very aware of it but you've got to give credit to the Aussies they definitely came out roaring in the first five minutes ...and we adapted but we just adapted way too late," she said.
A last quarter surge, when the Silver Ferns got to within three goals of Australia, couldn't turn the match New Zealand's way however.
Bailey Mes shot well scoring from 25 of her 26 attemps for a 96 percent success rate although Tutaia was a little off the mark with 25 from 32.
The Silver Ferns now head to the UK where they will play England on Friday.
