The Flyers had a strong start to the match, taking a six-point lead into the first break. Shooter Karyn Bailey appeared more comfortable in the shooting circle than the Flyers’ previous game against Malawi, scoring a total four goals including two two-pointers in the first term.
Co-captain Erin Bell continued her dominant shooting form, scoring a total nine goals for the match. This included two two-point goals in the Australian’s fourth quarter powerplay worth eight points.
Defenders Clare McMeniman and Kate Shimmin brought all of their tricks out onto the court, including the notorious defensive lift that saved a four-point score in England’s powerplay third quarter.
Shimmin’s defensive effort was instrumental in minimising England’s influence during their powerplay to only 10-points.
Midcourter Ash Brazill was again influential throughout the match, her speed and intensity important to the Australian make-up.
The Flyers will face-off against host country New Zealand, permitting the tournament favourites defeat Jamaica in their final regular match.
The Australians will be looking to go one better than their runner-up effort in 2013 and win their first Fast5 title against the undefeated New Zealand side.
Co-captain Clare McMeniman is hoping the Australians can make their second consecutive Grand Final.
“I think the loss the last night to New Zealand really stung us hard.
“We realised that we probably weren’t building as well yesterday so that’s a definite focus for today.”
The Fast5 Netball World Series Grand Final will be played at 5.55pm (AEDT).
Shooting statistics:
Australia
| Player |
1PT |
2PT |
3PT |
|---|
| K. Bailey |
4/4 |
2/2 |
- |
| E. Bell |
6/7 |
3/7 |
- |
| K. Beveridge |
1/1 |
1/1 |
- |
| A. Wild |
2/2 |
0/1 |
- |
England
| Player |
1PT |
2PT |
3PT |
|---|
| R. Allison |
- |
2/2 |
0/1 |
| K. Corbin |
1/1 |
1/4 |
- |
| R. Dunn |
2/2 |
0/3 |
0/1 |
| J. Harten |
5/5 |
1/5 |
1/4 |
